On Friday, May 23, 2014, President Barack Obama nominated San Antonio Mayor Julián Castro as the new Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Statement of Mike Calhoun, president of the Center for Responsible Lending:

In his five year tenure, Major Julián Castro has made a substantial difference for the city of San Antonio. The Mayor has a long record of focusing on affordable housing opportunities as the leader of 7th largest metropolitan region in the country - and his emphasis on urban revitalization, workforce development, and job growth has led to an increase in housing units in downtown San Antonio, a growth of jobs in the city, and national recognition as a vibrant and growing city.

The Mayor is a smart and thoughtful choice to succeed Secretary Donovan.

Mayor Castro's tenure as HUD Secretary will be informed by his experience as a hands-on leader dedicated to making a measurable difference in the lives of San Antonio residents. Mayor Castro's personal experiences – raised in an immigrant family– will inform his perspective on housing, homeownership, and the promise of the American Dream for all people.

Contact: Catherine An, catherine.an@responsiblelending.org, 202-349-1878

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