Donald Trump will nominate Ben Carson to be the next secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the president-elect’s transition team announced Monday.

“I am honored to accept the opportunity to serve our country in the Trump administration,” Carson, a retired pediatric neurosurgeon, said in a press release.

“I feel that I can make a significant contribution particularly by strengthening communities that are most in need. We have much work to do in enhancing every aspect of our nation and ensuring that our nation’s housing needs are met,” Carson added.

Carson ran for the Republican nomination for president in 2016 — but was vanquished by Trump.

In March 2016, a week after dropping out of the race, Carson endorsed Trump for president and quickly became a frequent surrogate for the mogul in TV appearances.

“Ben Carson has a brilliant mind and is passionate about strengthening communities and families within those communities. We have talked at length about my urban renewal agenda and our message of economic revival, very much including our inner cities,” Trump said Monday in announcing Carson’s appointment.

“Ben shares my optimism about the future of our country and is part of ensuring that this is a presidency representing all Americans. He is a tough competitor and never gives up,” Trump added.