Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senator Katie Britt engaged in a dialogue with Scott Turner, the nominee for Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), during a Senate Banking Committee nomination hearing. Britt expressed her endorsement for Turner's confirmation.

During the session, Senator Britt commended Turner for his willingness to serve and acknowledged the experience he brings to the role. She critiqued what she described as the "Biden-Harris Administration's red tape regime and failed Bidenomics policies," which she argued have worsened the affordable housing crisis in the United States.

"We all know that we are facing a serious problem when it comes to affordable housing in this country," said Britt. She mentioned several factors such as inflation, high construction costs, interest rates, and low inventory as challenges needing attention. According to her, these issues have deteriorated over the past four years.

"You are going to inherit a tremendous problem," she continued, emphasizing her enthusiasm about Turner's potential leadership under the Trump Administration. She stressed the need for solutions rather than regulatory burdens or price controls.

Britt affirmed her intention to collaborate with Turner on reducing regulations to decrease housing costs while advancing HUD programs. She queried Turner on his strategies to enhance homeownership accessibility for Americans.

Highlighting recent statistics, Britt noted an 18% rise in homelessness over the last year and a 33% increase since 2020. She attributed 24% of new home cost increases directly to regulation, labeling this situation as unacceptable.

She asked Turner about his approach to evaluating HUD programs' effectiveness. In response, Turner emphasized assessing current inventories and understanding what works or doesn't in addressing affordable housing needs and homelessness.

"So number one, and I’ve used this word before, ‘inventory’ and taking an assessment is key," said Turner. He proposed returning findings to the committee detailing what is effective versus inefficient or duplicative.

Senator Britt concluded by expressing her eagerness to collaborate with Turner: "Excellent, I look forward to working with you on that."

Turner thanked Britt at the end of their exchange.

A video of Senator Britt’s full line of questioning is available online.