Donald Trump has previously said that he and Ben Carson grew closer during the Republican primaries, despite the billionaire's suggestion that the doctor is a pathological liar. | AP Trump 'seriously considering' Carson to head HUD

President-elect Donald Trump said retired neurosurgeon and former GOP primary rival Ben Carson is under serious consideration to be the next secretary of housing and urban development.

“I am seriously considering Dr. Ben Carson as the head of HUD. I’ve gotten to know him well — he’s a greatly talented person who loves people!” Trump tweeted on Tuesday.

Trump has previously said that he and Carson grew closer during the Republican primaries, despite Trump’s suggestion the doctor is a pathological liar.

Carson, who said he forgave Trump after the tycoon became the nominee, served as a major surrogate for the billionaire during the remainder of the presidential race.

The neurosurgeon this week also softened his stance against serving in a Trump administration.

“There is no reversal of my position in terms of working with the Trump administration. I have always made it clear that I preferred to work outside of the government as an adviser, but if called upon, I would serve inside of the government,” Carson said on Facebook. “I believe it is important to have voices that are outside of the administration combating media bias and The [sic] divisiveness that has infected our country.”