WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed, a senior member of the Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee and the Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), issued the following statement today on President-elect Biden’s nomination of U.S. Representative Marcia L. Fudge of Ohio to be the next U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD):

“Congresswoman Fudge has the experience and management skills to reenergize HUD and refocus the agency on its core mission of building strong, sustainable communities.  This includes maintaining and increasing the supply of quality, affordable homes so that everyone can afford a decent place to live.  Indeed, the pandemic has shown us that for many families, a safe, affordable, and decent home may be the single best form of personal protective equipment.

“She is a bold, talented leader who has been on the frontlines of government as both a Mayor and a member of Congress.  She has a proven track record of spurring economic development, addressing lead hazards, and helping to revitalize neighborhoods and communities.

“Congresswoman Fudge is a tremendous advocate for working Americans and our country’s most vulnerable citizens – including seniors, those experiencing homelessness, and people with compromised health.  Her effective leadership has earned the respect of both parties and she will work with Congress in a transparent, coordinated manner.

“HUD will play a vital role in our nation’s economic recovery.  In the midst of a housing crisis that has only grown worse over the last four years, especially during the pandemic, we will need her leadership and wisdom to help lead HUD and the nation in a better direction.”