Dr. Benjamin S. Carson, Sr., M.D., has been sworn in as the new National Advisor for Nutrition, Health, and Housing within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The appointment was announced by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, who highlighted Carson’s qualifications to address critical national issues.

“Dr. Carson’s insight and experience is critical,” Rollins stated, emphasizing his role in advancing policies related to nutrition, healthcare quality, and housing accessibility. She cited the need for solutions amid challenges like chronic disease prevalence and rural housing shortages. Carson will advise President Trump and Rollins on initiatives tied to the “Make America Healthy Again” agenda, working closely with USDA leadership and other federal agencies.

Carson, who previously served as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under Trump, expressed enthusiasm for his new role. He cited the importance of addressing poor nutrition and supporting vulnerable families through policy reforms. His responsibilities include leading USDA’s efforts to reshape dietary guidelines and implementing state-level measures to restrict SNAP benefits for junk food purchases.

A renowned neurosurgeon and founder of the American Cornerstone Institute, Carson has a decades-long career in medicine and public service. His work at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center and groundbreaking medical achievements have earned widespread recognition, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The USDA described Carson as the department’s “chief spokesperson” on nutrition, rural healthcare, and housing issues, positioning him to influence national health priorities.