Former NFL player turned politician will lead housing and urban development
Donald Trump has nominated former NFL cornerback and Texas politician Scott Turner to be the next Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Turner, 52, brings a unique blend of athleticism, political experience and community involvement to the role, having previously served as the first executive director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term.
“I am pleased to nominate Scott Turner from the great state of Texas to serve as Secretary of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD),” Trump announced in a statement.
Trump praised Turner’s leadership, saying he “led an unprecedented effort that has transformed our country’s most disadvantaged communities.” The president-elect expressed confidence in Turner’s ability to address housing issues and revitalization projects across the country.
A diverse career spanning sport and public service
Turner’s path to becoming HUD secretary is anything but conventional. A seventh-round pick in the 1995 NFL Draft, Turner played for the Washington Redskins, San Diego Chargers and Denver Broncos for nearly a decade. After his career in professional football, Turner, a native of Richardson, Texas, moved into politics and represented Texas’ 33rd District in the state House.
His work as head of Trump’s Opportunity and Revitalization Council focused on solving problems in economically disadvantaged communities, a role that positioned him as a natural choice for HUD secretary in Trump’s second term.
Trump’s Cabinet picks reflect strategic decisions
Turner’s nomination marks Trump’s first appointment of a Black incumbent in the current Cabinet formation process. It follows Trump’s selection of billionaire and WWE co-founder Linda McMahon as education secretary. McMahon, who led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s first term, is known for her support of school choice and charter schools but has no significant experience in education policy.
Together, these appointments signal Trump’s intention to mix familiar faces from his previous administration with new figures who can bring fresh perspectives.
What’s next for Turner?
If confirmed, Turner will take over a department facing increasing challenges, including a lack of affordable housing, homelessness and equitable urban development. His experience with the Opportunity Zones initiative will likely guide his approach to balancing public-private partnerships and federal housing policies.
Trump concluded his announcement with a congratulatory message for Turner and his family, saying, “Scott will work alongside me to make America great again for EVERY American.”
