Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte says a housing “boom” is on the horizon under President Trump’s leadership, despite recent turmoil at government-backed mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Pulte appeared on Fox News’ “The Ingraham Angle” to defend his aggressive reforms while addressing fraud allegations against dozens of employees.
Pulte has fired over 100 Fannie Mae workers since taking office, citing “unethical conduct” like facilitating mortgage fraud. He claims these firings protect taxpayers and restore trust in housing markets. Critics argue the moves create chaos, but supporters say draining the swamp at these agencies will lead to long-term stability.
The Trump administration is pushing major changes to Fannie and Freddie, including cutting diversity programs and climate initiatives that Pulte calls “wasteful.” Over $15 million previously spent on diversity efforts is being redirected to programs that “actually make homes affordable.” This shift aligns with President Trump’s focus on practical solutions over ideological projects.
Housing experts predict modest price growth and rising inventory in 2025, with mortgage rates fluctuating between 5.75% and 7.25%. Pulte insists Trump’s policies will counterbalance high rates by reducing regulations and government fees. Democrats like Elizabeth Warren warn this approach risks spiking costs for families, but Pulte counters that short-term pain will lead to a healthier private-sector housing market.
Conservatives applaud Pulte’s efforts to shrink Fannie and Freddie’s footprint, arguing decades of government overregulation distorted housing markets. The director’s social media posts highlight rapid action—from office attendance mandates to scrapping Biden-era lending rules for minority groups. Critics call these moves divisive, while supporters see them as restoring fairness.
Pulte’s ambitious reforms include laying groundwork to privatize Fannie and Freddie, a move some Republicans believe will boost competition. Though initial privatization could raise rates, allies argue it will eventually spur innovation and lower costs. The director vows to keep fighting “deep state” resistance within housing agencies to deliver Trump’s America First vision.
Despite heated debates, Pulte remains optimistic. He points to regions like the Sun Belt where new construction drives sales growth as proof deregulation works. With home prices rising just 2-3% in 2025, he claims Trump’s team is finally taming the inflation nightmare caused by previous administrations.
The housing showdown reflects broader conservative priorities: slashing bureaucracy, empowering businesses, and putting taxpayers ahead of special interests. As Pulte overhauls these cornerstones of American homeownership, all eyes will watch whether Trump’s bet on private-sector discipline can revive the dream of affordable housing.
