Ohio House Democrats applaud HUD Sec. Marcia Fudge's confirmation

Ohio House Democrats, led by Minority Leader Emilia Strong Sykes (D-Akron) issued a statement as the United States Senate this week voted to confirm former U.S. Rep. Marcia Fudge (D-Warrensville Heights) as the next Secretary of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD):

“For many years, Secretary Fudge has been a fierce advocate for Northeast Ohio, and now we’re excited to see her bring that same passion and purpose to serve our nation as a member of President Biden’s cabinet. He couldn’t have made a better choice as his Housing Secretary,” said Leader Sykes. “This pandemic has disrupted the lives of millions of our fellow Americans, and the road to recovery begins by ensuring every American has the tools they need to pay their rent, utilities and to stay in their homes. Secretary Fudge understands these challenges, and she will lead HUD with honor, dignity and a vision to restore the fundamental promise of better lives and brighter futures for all Americans. We couldn’t be prouder of our Cleveland sister.”

House Democrats also announced plans to introduce a resolution honoring Secretary Fudge before the Ohio House chamber in the coming days. 

“Secretary Fudge is the kind of leader who gets things done. She’s been an incredible advocate and champion for our community for many years, and I have no doubt she’ll see that same kind of success in President Biden’s cabinet. She understands the challenges facing so many Americans and will make an immediate impact to better the lives of all Americans, especially those in our urban communities who have struggled throughout this pandemic,” said Rep. Juanita O. Brent (D-Cleveland), who represents the Warrensville Heights community where Sec. Fudge lives and had represented in Congress for more than a decade. She plans to introduce the resolution in the coming days.

Sec. Fudge served Ohio’s 11th congressional district from 2008 until her confirmation this week. During that time, she chaired the Congressional Black Caucus from 2013-2015. Prior to her election to Congress, Sec. Fudge served as mayor of Warrensville Heights from 2000-2008, the first woman and first African-American to do so.