After months of investigating Trump critics over allegations of mortgage fraud, FHFA Director Bill Pulte increasingly finds himself the target of investigations into possible episodes of misconduct and the misuse of power.
Industry observers note that, despite its bold pronouncements about a public offering for the GSEs, the Trump administration still has not addressed the key issues that make this a risky proposition.
Pershing Square founder Bill Ackman, who earlier this year pitched a swift end to the conservatorship, now says it could take as long as three years. He also has some near-term suggestions.
Although behind the scenes conversations between the Trump administration and mortgage industry players have made some observers more optimistic about GSE reform, plenty of critics remain unconvinced.
Industry analysts at a discussion hosted by the Bipartisan Policy Center detailed numerous complications involved in ending the conservatorships of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
The agency is appealing a jury verdict awarded to GSE shareholders for losses related to the net worth sweep. FHFA is also facing a lawsuit tied to an untimely response to a FOIA request.
Trade groups representing credit unions pushed back against suggestions that the institutions are creating risks, and called for status quo on certain GSE policies post-conservatorship.