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STORY: The Senate Banking Committee has approved Ben Carson's nomination to be the next Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development by voice vote.
Republican Chairman Mike Crapo, of Idaho announced that "The 'ayes' have it and the nomination is hereby reported favorably to the full Senate."
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) hands out billions of dollars each year to developers and landlords. When nominated, Carson said he was honored to accept the post.
"I feel that I can make a significant contribution particularly by strengthening communities that are most in need," he said.
Democrats criticized then President-elect Trump's HUD pick, calling Carson unqualified to take over $48-billion agency that oversees public housing.