Ben Carson named as Trump’s housing secretary

Donald Trump named former presidential rival Ben Carson as his choice to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development on Monday. "Ben Carson has a brilliant mind and is passionate about strengthening communities and families within those communities," Trump said in statement. "Ben shares my optimism about the future of our country and is […]

Donald Trump named former presidential rival Ben Carson as his choice to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development on Monday.

"Ben Carson has a brilliant mind and is passionate about strengthening communities and families within those communities," Trump said in statement.

"Ben shares my optimism about the future of our country and is part of ensuring that this is a presidency representing all Americans. He is a tough competitor and never gives up," the president-elect continued.

A retired neurosurgeon who is a pioneer in separating conjoined twins, Carson was raised in poverty by a single mother in Michigan.

The 65-year-old African-American came to prominence in 2013 after criticizing President Barack Obama’s health care reforms.

He was one in a large field of candidates vying to become the Republican nominee for president. He dropped out of the race in March after string of disappointing primary results. (DPA)