In a significant shift at the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Secretary Marcia L. Fudge is stepping down from her role. President Joe Biden praised Fudge's tenure, highlighting her efforts towards creating a more equitable and affordable housing market.
"A fair housing market and access to quality and affordable housing are critical to the fulfillment of the American dream, and no one understands that better than Secretary Marcia L. Fudge." Biden said. During her time, Biden pointed out that Fudge worked to "rebuild" a housing system left in disrepair by the previous administration, according to a statement from the White House.
The President underscored the strides made under Secretary Fudge's leadership including the proposal of the "largest investment in affordable housing in U.S. history," efforts to end racial discrimination in housing by making home appraisals more equitable, and attempts to mitigate the effects of redlining. "Thanks to Secretary Fudge, we’ve helped first-time homebuyers, and we are working to cut the cost of renting. And there are more housing units under construction right now than at any time in the last 50 years."
With Fudge's departure, Deputy Secretary Adrianne Todman is set to take over as Acting Secretary. Before her tenure at the HUD, Fudge's career spanned multiple roles from serving as a mayor to a "fierce advocate" in the U.S. House of Representatives, where her efforts were focused on expanding economic opportunities for all citizens. "I’m grateful for all of her contributions toward a housing system that works for all Americans, and I wish her well in her next chapter," Biden expressed.
