After a relatively easy confirmation hearing, Ben Carson will get a vote on his nomination to be secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development next week.
The Senate Banking Committee, headed by Sen. Mike Crapo of Idaho, announced Tuesday evening that the vote would be held the morning of Jan. 24.
Carson, a former neurosurgeon without experience in government or housing, demonstrated an ability to quickly pick up knowledge and also to diplomatically answer senators’ tough questions at his hearing. Several Democratic senators expressed support for his nomination, and no Republicans hinted at opposition.
Nevertheless, Carson made it clear that his goals for the department fit in with some of the most conservative ideas for housing and urban policy. He added detail to President-elect Trump’s call for lessening housing regulations, a stance that will please the housing industry. But he also expressed doubt about a government role in backing mortgage securities, a view in line with free-market orthodoxy but unwelcome among bankers and consumer groups.
