Let’s keep taking up space — and making history in the process.

Ohio Rep. Marcia Fudge has officially taken her place in the Biden administration after the Senate confirmed her as the new Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in a 66–34 vote. Her confirmation is not only a significant political moment—it’s a historic one. Fudge is now the first Black woman to lead HUD since Patricia R. Harris in 1979 (The Washington Post). Her appointment continues the administration’s effort to build one of the most diverse Cabinets in modern U.S. history (Associated Press).

During her January confirmation hearing, Fudge made her mission unmistakably clear: protecting the millions of Americans who have fallen behind on rent or mortgage payments amid the economic fallout of the pandemic. “We cannot afford to allow people in the midst of a pandemic to be put in the streets,” she told senators, emphasizing that housing stability is foundational to national recovery (CNN).

Just moments before submitting her formal resignation from Congress, Fudge cast the final vote of her House career—supporting the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package. The legislation includes billions in housing aid, rental assistance, and funding meant to stabilize communities hardest hit by the pandemic (NPR). For Fudge, it was a fitting final act in a congressional tenure defined by advocacy for underserved families.

“It has been a privilege, pleasure, and distinct honor to serve the people of Ohio’s 11th District in Congress for the last 12 years,” she wrote in a farewell message to her constituents.

Fudge’s path to national leadership has been marked by decades of public service. She launched her career in the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office, before making history as the first Black woman elected mayor of Warrensville Heights, Ohio, serving from 2000 to 2008. Her leadership elevated the city’s economic development profile and strengthened local infrastructure (Cleveland Plain Dealer). In 2008, she entered Congress, where she went on to serve on high-impact committees including House Administration, Agriculture, and Education and Labor. She also served as chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, amplifying legislative priorities for Black communities nationwide (New York Times).

Speaking to reporters, Fudge said the opportunity to join the President’s Cabinet was beyond anything she imagined:
“In my wildest dreams I never would have thought about it. So if I can help this President in any way possible, I’m more than happy to do it.”

Even before her nomination, Fudge was a crucial voice on issues of food insecurity, voting rights, and public welfare. She chaired the House Administration Committee’s Subcommittee on Elections and the Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Nutrition, Oversight and Department Operations, where she played a key role in strengthening SNAP benefits and federal nutrition programs (Politico).

President Biden’s decision to nominate Fudge was also shaped by political strategy. While he avoided tapping many Democratic lawmakers due to narrow majorities in Congress, Fudge’s seat was considered “safe” for Democrats—making her one of the few congressional members selected for the Cabinet (Axios). Under Ohio law, her departure triggers a special election to fill her seat, a process already set into motion by the governor.

Her confirmation drew immediate praise from colleagues, including Rep. Cori Bush, Rep. Stacey Plaskett, and House Majority Whip James Clyburn—each celebrating what her leadership at HUD will mean for communities nationwide.

Biden has vowed that his administration will “look like America,” and with historic appointments including Vice President Kamala Harris, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, and now HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge, the Cabinet is shaping up to be one of the most inclusive in U.S. history (New York Times).

Congratulations, Secretary Marcia Fudge — a trailblazer stepping into a role where her experience, conviction, and vision are needed more than ever.