President-elect Donald Trump has appointed former Texas state Rep. Scott Turner to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Turner, a former NFL player and Texas House of Representatives member, has been involved in various initiatives aimed at revitalizing distressed communities.
During Trump’s first term, Turner led a council focused on investing in Opportunity Zones to spur economic development. While this effort received bipartisan support, critics raised concerns about the benefits primarily going to wealthy investors rather than local residents.
The Trump administration has previously attempted to cut HUD’s budget and restrict housing aid, although these proposals did not materialize. However, with a more organized agenda and fewer moderate Republicans in Congress, future budget battles are expected. Project 2025, a set of policy proposals that includes banning undocumented families from federally assisted housing and repealing rules to prevent segregation, could significantly impact HUD’s operations.
Despite these proposed changes, some experts believe that substantial budget cuts may not be enacted due to public backlash. However, regulatory changes to tighten work requirements and restrict noncitizens in public housing are more likely to move forward. Longer-term goals outlined in Project 2025, such as selling public housing land to private developers and setting time limits on rental subsidies, aim to promote self-sufficiency among recipients.
While some support these initiatives as a way to address housing shortages and promote economic development, others argue that they do not offer a comprehensive solution. Breaking up HUD or shifting responsibilities to other agencies may not effectively address the root causes of housing insecurity. Additionally, the focus on the private market could exacerbate affordability issues for low-income families.
Looking ahead, the next Trump administration is expected to prioritize major tax cuts and economic policies in its first year. If housing policy becomes a focal point, it is likely to concentrate on addressing the housing shortage and rising home prices. Balancing the need for affordable housing with promoting self-sufficiency and economic growth will be crucial in shaping HUD’s future role in housing policy.
