Press Releases
12/04/2016
Gov. Malloy Statement on the Nomination of Ben Carson as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Dannel P. Malloy today released the following statement regarding the nomination of Ben Carson as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD):“Dr. Carson in the past has made troubling comments regarding those in the LBGTQ community. Homelessness among the LBGTQ community – and in particular LBGTQ youth – occurs at a disproportionally higher rate than other segments of the population as a result of discrimination. As noted by Dr. Carson’s own advisors, he lacks any qualifications to run a government agency and could potentially ‘cripple the presidency.’ This should give all citizens cause for concern. The Senate needs to closely scrutinize his abilities and viewpoints when it comes to basic human rights, and also his complete lack of experience and expertise in the world of housing. Even a cursory overview of Dr. Carson’s background indicates that more qualified nominees should be available to the President-Elect.
“Here in Connecticut, we are a nationally recognized leader for our prioritization of the development of affordable and supportive housing and our efforts to prevent and end homelessness. Since 2011, 18,000 units of housing have been built, rehabilitated, or are in some phase of construction. We are also the first state in the nation to end chronic veteran homelessness, and one of only three to effectively end veteran homelessness by rapidly identifying homeless individuals and families and quickly placing them into permanent housing.
“Affordable and supportive housing is critical to the future economic well-being of our nation, and it is imperative this work be central to HUD, regardless of who takes over as Secretary. Access to federal rental subsidies such as the Section 8 vouchers and HUD-Veteran Affairs Supportive Housing programs are essential in the fight to end homelessness. The economic impacts associated with housing investment in Connecticut since 2011 are unprecedented, and it’s essential that these types of programs continue to receive funding under the Trump administration so that Connecticut and other states can continue to make progress.”
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