Guide Note:The Secretary of the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Alphonso Jackson, resigned Monday, March 31, 2008, following criticism from Congress over allegations of unethical practices.

In early February of 2008, Senator Patty Murray, and Senator Christopher Dodd asked President Bush to urge Jackson to resign. They claimed that the controversy surrounding Jackson over a lawsuit where he was allegedly retaliating against the city of Philadelphia's HUD because it refused to give a contract to a personal friend of his, was causing him to perform his HUD duties inefficiently.

In his resignation speech, he cited the reason for leaving as "personal and family matters". He will officially step down from his post on April 18, 2008.

Fast Facts:

1. Born: September 9, 1945,
2. Birthplace: Marshall, Texas
3. Political Party: Republican
4. Assumed post as secretary on March 31, 2004
5. Announced resignation March 31, 2008
6. Scheduled resignation April 18, 2008
7. 13th Secretary of HUD

Alphonso Jackson Quotes:

• "As the son of a lead smelter and nurse midwife, and the last of 12 children, never did I imagine I would serve America in such a way," Jackson said about his Cabinet post. "I am truly grateful for the opportunity."

• "We have helped families keep their homes, we have transformed public housing, we have reduced chronic homelessness, and we have preserved affordable housing and increased minority homeownership,"

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