Former Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Dr. Benjamin S. Carson, Sr., M.D., has been sworn in as the National Advisor for Nutrition, Health, and Housing at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The appointment, announced by Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, places Carson at the forefront of the Trump administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) initiative.
According to the USDA press release, Carson will serve as the Department’s chief voice on nutrition, rural healthcare quality, and housing access, advising both Secretary Rollins and President Donald Trump. His role is designed to strengthen the connection between health outcomes, food policy, and housing stability across America.
Carson’s Role in Nutrition and Health Policy
In his new position, Carson is expected to provide guidance on federal nutrition programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the National School Lunch Program, and the upcoming Dietary Guidelines for Americans. While the USDA has not confirmed specific policy changes, officials noted that his expertise will help shape strategies for improving food quality and expanding access to healthier diets nationwide.
“Too many Americans are suffering from the effects of poor nutrition,” Carson said during the swearing-in ceremony. “Through common-sense policymaking, we have an opportunity to give families the tools they need to flourish.”
Carson will also collaborate with other federal agencies on the broader MAHA agenda, which emphasizes reducing chronic disease rates, investing in rural healthcare, and strengthening food security.
Background and Experience
Dr. Carson is internationally recognized for his decades-long medical career. He served as Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center for nearly 30 years and gained global attention in 1987 for leading the first successful separation of twins conjoined at the back of the head.
In addition to his medical achievements, Carson previously served as the 17th Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (2017–2021), where he focused on affordable housing and community development. His background in both medicine and public policy, Secretary Rollins noted, makes him uniquely qualified for this cross-disciplinary advisory role.
“There is no one more qualified than Dr. Carson to advise on policies that improve Americans’ everyday quality of life, from nutrition to healthcare to housing,” Rollins said in a statement.
Implications for Rural America
Carson’s appointment comes at a time when rural communities face significant challenges in healthcare access and diet-related illnesses. The USDA said his role will include advising on investments in rural health infrastructure and aligning agricultural development with public health needs.
With six in ten U.S. adults living with at least one chronic disease, officials believe the MAHA initiative could play a pivotal role in shifting the national conversation around prevention, nutrition, and community health.
Looking Ahead
Carson remains active beyond government service as the founder of the American Cornerstone Institute, a policy think tank. At USDA, his work is expected to influence not only nutrition assistance programs but also housing stability—two critical areas closely tied to overall public health.
As the administration’s MAHA agenda advances, Carson’s advisory role is likely to be closely watched by healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the agricultural sector alike.
