People in the news

Adolfo Carrion

Director, Housing and Urban Development Department Region II (since May 2010)

(HUD)

Why He Matters

In 2008, Carrion backed out of a run for New York City comptroller to jump to Washington as urban policy czar in the Obama administration.

But after a little more than a year on the job, Carrion, reportedly eager to get back into local politics, was transferred to a regional director position at the Department of Housing and Development. It may seem like a demotion, but sources say it's actually strategy - this new job will give Carrion the opportunity to build a long list of tangible accomplishments before he again seeks elected office in New York.

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Background

At a Glance

Career History: White House Director of Urban Affairs (February 2009-May 2010)Bronx Borough President (since 2001); President of the National Association of Latino Elected Officials (since 2007); City Council member (1998 to 2000)
Birthday: March 6, 1961
Hometown: Manhattan, N.Y.
Alma Mater: Kings College, B.A. (world religions), Hunter College, M.A. (urban planning)