History of Marcia Fudge in Timeline

Marcia Louise Fudge is an accomplished American attorney and retired politician known for her tenure as the 18th United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development from 2021 to 2024. Prior to her role in the cabinet, Fudge was a prominent member of the Democratic Party, serving as the U.S. representative for Ohio's 11th congressional district from 2008 to 2021. Her district was notable for encompassing a large number of black-majority precincts between Cleveland and Akron. Throughout her career, Fudge has been recognized for her advocacy and leadership, particularly in areas concerning housing and urban development, as well as representing underrepresented communities in Ohio.

October 29, 1952: Birth of Marcia Fudge

Marcia Louise Fudge was born on October 29, 1952, in Cleveland, Ohio. This marked the beginning of her life journey, which would lead her to various significant roles in American politics.

1971: Graduation from Shaker Heights High School

In 1971, Marcia Fudge graduated from Shaker Heights High School, taking the first step in her educational journey that would lead to significant achievements.

1975: Bachelor's Degree from Ohio State University

Marcia Fudge earned her Bachelor of Science in business from Ohio State University in 1975, marking a significant educational milestone.

1983: Juris Doctor from Cleveland State University

In 1983, Marcia Fudge received her Juris Doctor from Cleveland State University College of Law, advancing her professional qualifications as an attorney.

1996: President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority

In 1996, Marcia Fudge became the president of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority, a role she held until 2000, showcasing her leadership in the organization.

1999: First Political Campaign

Marcia Fudge embarked on her first political campaign in 1999, running for and eventually becoming mayor of Warrensville Heights, Ohio.

2000: Became Mayor of Warrensville Heights

In 2000, Marcia Fudge became the mayor of Warrensville Heights, Ohio, marking the start of her leadership in local government.

2000: End of Sorority Presidency

Marcia Fudge's tenure as president of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority concluded in 2000, marking an end to her leadership role within the organization.

2003: Induction into Shaker Heights Alumni Association Hall of Fame

In 2003, Marcia Fudge was inducted into the Shaker Heights Alumni Association's Hall of Fame, recognizing her contributions and achievements.

August 20, 2008: Selected as Replacement Candidate

After the death of Stephanie Tubbs Jones on August 20, 2008, Marcia Fudge was chosen by a committee of local Democratic leaders to replace her on the November ballot, setting the stage for her congressional career.

November 18, 2008: End of Term as Mayor of Warrensville Heights

Marcia Fudge concluded her role as the mayor of Warrensville Heights, Ohio, on November 18, 2008, after serving since 2000 as the first female and African American mayor of the town.

November 19, 2008: Sworn into U.S. House of Representatives

Marcia Fudge was sworn into the U.S. House of Representatives on November 19, 2008, gaining seniority over other freshmen by almost two months. This followed her victory in a special election to complete Jones's term.

2008: Unopposed Run for Congress

Following the death of Stephanie Tubbs Jones in 2008, Marcia Fudge ran unopposed in the special election to replace her, marking her entry into the U.S. House of Representatives.

2008: Elected to U.S. House of Representatives

In 2008, Marcia Fudge was elected as the U.S. Representative for Ohio's 11th congressional district. This year marked the start of her long service in Congress.

September 2014: CBC Voter Mobilization Efforts

In September 2014, during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's 44th Annual Legislative Conference, Marcia Fudge emphasized the CBC's efforts to mobilize Black voters in the midterm elections, focusing on counteracting Republican criticisms of President Obama.

2015: Letter for Leniency in Lance Mason's Case

In 2015, Marcia Fudge wrote a letter requesting leniency in the sentencing of Cleveland politician Lance Mason, citing his character. This decision later drew controversy after Mason's involvement in a serious crime.

2018: Condemnation of Lance Mason's Crimes

In 2018, following Lance Mason's conviction for the murder of his ex-wife, Marcia Fudge condemned his actions, distancing herself from her previous support for leniency in his earlier legal troubles.

2018: Considered Speakership Bid

In 2018, following the midterm elections, Marcia Fudge considered running for Speaker of the House. She later decided against the bid, opting to support Nancy Pelosi instead.

2019: Support for Nancy Pelosi

In 2019, Marcia Fudge supported Nancy Pelosi for Speaker of the House, having previously considered entering the race herself following the 2018 midterm elections.

December 10, 2020: Nominated as HUD Secretary

On December 10, 2020, president-elect Joe Biden nominated Marcia Fudge as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, setting the stage for her future confirmation and service in the role.

2020: Advocacy for Agriculture Secretary Role

In 2020, Marcia Fudge, alongside allies, advocated for her appointment as Secretary of Agriculture in the Biden administration. Although she was not selected for this role, she was eventually chosen as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.

January 28, 2021: Senate Committee Hearing for HUD Secretary Nomination

On January 28, 2021, Marcia Fudge appeared before the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs as part of the confirmation process for her nomination as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.

February 4, 2021: Nomination Advanced for HUD Secretary

On February 4, 2021, the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs advanced Marcia Fudge's nomination for Secretary of Housing and Urban Development by a vote of 17–7.

March 10, 2021: Confirmation and Swearing-In as HUD Secretary

On March 10, 2021, Marcia Fudge was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development with a vote of 66–34. She was sworn in virtually by Vice President Kamala Harris, becoming the second African American woman to hold the position.

March 2021: Hatch Act Violation Warning

In March 2021, during a White House press conference, Marcia Fudge made remarks about the upcoming Senate election in Ohio, which led to accusations of violating the Hatch Act of 1939. She was later warned by the Office of Special Counsel for the violation.

November 2, 2021: Special Election to Replace Fudge

A special election was held on November 2, 2021, to replace Marcia Fudge's congressional seat after her resignation to serve as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Shontel Brown was elected to the position.

2021: Fudge's Role as HUD Secretary Begins

In 2021, Marcia Fudge was confirmed as the 18th United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Her tenure began this year, marking a significant milestone in her political career.

March 11, 2024: Announcement of Resignation

On March 11, 2024, Marcia Fudge announced her resignation from public office, effective March 22, marking her transition from public service to becoming a partner at the law firm Taft Stettinius & Hollister.

2024: End of Tenure as HUD Secretary

By 2024, Marcia Fudge concluded her role as the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, marking the end of her service in this federal position.