Scott Turner’s Nomination Raises Concerns About Support for Housing Assistance Programs

Scott Turner's candidacy for HUD raises concerns due to his history of opposing federal housing aid, igniting debate over his commitment to the agency's mission.

Scott Turner, recently nominated to helm the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the incoming Trump administration, brings with him a track record marked by skepticism toward federal programs aimed at alleviating poverty and homelessness.

This concern raises questions about his dedication to HUD’s mission to assist those grappling with housing challenges, as illuminated by a ProPublica investigation that combined expert insights with legislative scrutiny.

Turner’s Background and Legislative History

ProPublica’s examination utilized diverse sources, including legislative histories and Turner’s various public appearances, such as speeches, podcast discussions, and sermons delivered at his church, Prestonwood Baptist in Plano, Texas, where he serves as a pastor.

Notably, during his tenure in the Texas House of Representatives, he expressed opposition to numerous initiatives that resemble the federal programs he would oversee as HUD secretary.

For instance, Turner backed a policy that permitted landlords to reject rental applications from individuals relying on federal housing assistance.

He also voted against measures designed to expand affordable rental options and opposed funding for public-private collaborations aimed at supporting the homeless.

Moreover, he dismissed two proposals focused on researching homelessness affecting youth and veterans.

Reactions to Turner’s Nomination

Throughout his career, Turner has raised doubts about the effectiveness of government assistance programs intended for low-income families.

In a 2023 podcast on welfare, he described such initiatives as potentially harmful, suggesting they contribute to family disintegration.

Similar themes appeared in his sermons, reinforcing his critical stance on these support systems.

In light of ProPublica’s findings, Turner’s representatives have pushed back, labeling the report as ideologically biased and urging that it is too early to assess his potential performance as HUD secretary.

A spokesperson indicated that the article seemed deliberately aimed at portraying Turner unfavorably ahead of his upcoming confirmation hearings, criticizing ProPublica’s framing as characteristic of a liberal agenda.

Experts consulted by ProPublica warned that Turner’s views might conflict with HUD’s essential goals.

Shamus Roller, executive director of the National Housing Law Project, noted that if Turner perceives rental assistance as a form of dependency, he risks jeopardizing programs meant to help those in need.

Turner’s Life Experiences and Perspectives

On the flip side, a former Democratic colleague from the Texas legislature offered a more optimistic perspective.

This colleague noted their shared efforts on a committee and expressed confidence in Turner’s capability and intention to assist vulnerable populations effectively.

Turner’s views on social welfare appear to stem from his own life experiences.

Growing up in a challenging environment near Dallas, he often describes his upbringing as one marked by hardship, coming from a broken home and a low-income background.

His athletic prowess paved the way for a nine-season career in the NFL before he transitioned into a political landscape where he distinguished himself as a conservative opponent of many government interventions in housing.

Since President-elect Donald Trump put forward his nomination, responses from Senate leaders have ranged widely.

Senator Tim Scott, poised to lead the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, expressed enthusiasm for working with Turner and speeding up his confirmation process.

In contrast, former HUD Secretary Ben Carson lauded Turner as a fitting candidate for the position.

Senator Elizabeth Warren, however, voiced a more cautious stance, emphasizing her eagerness to learn about Turner’s perspective on pressing housing issues that HUD will confront in the years ahead.

Source: Housingwire