Saunders cheers Fudge confirmation; says she understands role of public service workers in building strong communities

WASHINGTON — AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement regarding the Senate’s vote to confirm Marcia Fudge as U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development:

“As a former mayor and member of Congress, Marcia Fudge is a longtime champion for working people and a passionate advocate for affordable housing, a leader in the fight against poverty who is deeply committed to advancing inclusion and equity for all. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the impoverished and marginalized populations that HUD serves; it has created a housing crisis, with tens of millions of people at risk of eviction. Secretary Fudge brings to the job an acute understanding of, and a commitment to solving, these challenges.

“AFSCME is especially interested in ensuring that America’s public housing is safe, well-maintained and efficiently run. We have every confidence that Secretary Fudge will make that a centerpiece of her work at HUD. She has a sensitivity to local government needs and an understanding of the role public service workers play in building strong cities and communities. On behalf of AFSCME’s 1.4 million members, I’m excited about her confirmation and eager to build a strong partnership with her.”