Vice President-elect Mike Pence Michael (Mike) Richard PenceButtigieg stands in as Pence for Harris's debate practice Trump argues full Supreme Court needed to settle potential election disputes Pence adviser knocks ex-staffer who criticized Trump on COVID-19 MORE on Tuesday touted Ben Carson as a "brilliant man," insisting he's the right pick to head the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

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"He is the most humble brain surgeon I've ever met in my life. He's a brilliant man who has incredible personal faith, an incredible story and character," Pence said on MSNBC's "Morning Joe."

"He is absolutely qualified and more than that. He's going to bring to life the president-elect's vision of really bring real renewal to urban America."

Pence linked Carson to President-elect Donald Trump Donald John TrumpOmar fires back at Trump over rally remarks: 'This is my country' Pelosi: Trump hurrying to fill SCOTUS seat so he can repeal ObamaCare Trump mocks Biden appearance, mask use ahead of first debate MORE's outreach to black voters during the campaign. Trump frequently asked black voters at rallies, "What the hell do you have to lose?"

"He is absolutely committed to restoring law and order to the streets of our cities, to creating educational opportunities, expanding educational choice, creating jobs and opportunities that for too many Americans in our cities have just not been the reality now for generations," Pence said.

"Donald Trump is committed to bringing prosperity and growth and enhanced security and safety to every American in every community."

Trump on Monday announced his plans to nominate Carson to lead HUD. In a statement, the president-elect said Carson had a "brilliant mind" and was "passionate about strengthening communities and families within those communities."

During the presidential campaign, Trump was harshly critical of Carson, at one point saying Carson has a "pathological temper." But Carson endorsed Trump after dropping out of the race and became a prominent surrogate.

Critics have questioned whether Carson, a retired neurosurgeon who has never worked in government, is qualified to run an agency.

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) on Monday called Carson a "disconcerting and disturbingly unqualified choice."