Chicago Thursday, July 17th, 2025
Trump’s Plan Affects Affordable Housing
President Donald Trump’s administration wants to make big changes to how the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) helps low-income families afford housing. Havalah Hopkins, a single mother, knows how hard it is to make ends meet. She works catering gigs to support herself and her 14-year-old autistic son, who live in a government-subsidized apartment. But with the proposed changes, they might lose their home.
Proposed Changes and Impact
The Trump administration’s plan includes a two-year limit on rental assistance for most households. This means families like Hopkins’ might have to find new ways to pay rent after two years. HUD Secretary Scott Turner says this will fix waste and fraud in public housing and Section 8 voucher programs. However, critics argue that this will hurt vulnerable families who rely on this assistance. The proposed budget cuts would reduce HUD funding by 44%, from $77 billion to $43.5 billion, affecting around 4.4 million households currently assisted by HUD’s rental programs.
What’s at Stake?
If the plan goes through, many families might lose their homes. Experts estimate that only 1 in 4 low-income households eligible for HUD rental assistance actually get the benefits. With the proposed cuts, more people might struggle to find affordable housing. The administration argues that this plan will encourage private sector involvement in affordable housing development and give states more flexibility. However, many worry about the impact on those who need help the most.
