Washington, DC – In anticipation of today’s confirmation hearing, the National Community Reinvestment Coalition called for the confirmation of Mel Watt as Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA).
“We urge the Senate to promptly confirm Mel Watt as Director of the FHFA,” said NCRC President and CEO John Taylor. “He is highly qualified, holds an exemplary record as a public servant, and has the knowledge and expertise to be a strong leader for the agency.”
“The Acting FHFA Director, Ed DeMarco, has seriously impeded recovery in the housing market by not allowing the Government Sponsored Enterprises to play a more prominent role in preventing foreclosures. The country needs an FHFA Director who will do what is best for homeowners, taxpayers, and the economy. Representative Watt understands that housing values will not improve as long as millions of Americans face foreclosure and there is a massive inventory of vacant and abandoned homes. Representative Watt has also always displayed a willingness to listen and work across the aisle. It is imperative that the new FHFA Director possess these qualities.”
In May of 2013, NCRC applauded the nomination of Mel Watt and called for his swift confirmation.
Earlier, in August of 2012, NCRC and hundreds of community organizations sent a letter to the White House calling on President Obama to recess appoint an FHFA Director.
About the National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC): The National Community Reinvestment Coalition is an association of more than 600 community-based organizations that promote access to basic banking services, including credit and savings, to create and sustain affordable housing, job development, and vibrant communities for America’s working families.
