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27–854 PDF 2018

S. HRG. 115–122 

NOMINATIONS OF PAUL COMPTON, ANNA MARIA 

FARIAS, NEAL RACKLEFF, RICHARD ASHOOH, 

ELIZABETH ERIN WALSH, AND CHRISTOPHER 

CAMPBELL 

HEARING 

BEFORE THE

COMMITTEE ON 

BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN AFFAIRS 

UNITED STATES SENATE 

ONE HUNDRED FIFTEENTH CONGRESS 

FIRST SESSION 

ON 

THE NOMINATIONS OF: 

PAUL COMPTON, OF ALABAMA, TO BE GENERAL COUNSEL, DEPARTMENT OF

HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

ANNA MARIA FARIAS, OF TEXAS, TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR FAIR

HOUSING AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN

DEVELOPMENT

NEAL RACKLEFF, OF TEXAS, TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR COMMUNITY

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT, DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN

DEVELOPMENT

RICHARD ASHOOH, OF NEW HAMPSHIRE, TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR

EXPORT ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

ELIZABETH ERIN WALSH, OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, TO BE ASSISTANT

SECRETARY FOR GLOBAL MARKETS AND DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE UNITED

STATES AND FOREIGN COMMERICAL SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

CHRISTOPHER CAMPBELL, OF CALIFORNIA, TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY

JULY 18, 2017 

Printed for the use of the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs 

( 

Available at: http://www.govinfo.gov/ 

COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN AFFAIRS 

MIKE CRAPO, Idaho, Chairman 

RICHARD C. SHELBY, Alabama 

BOB CORKER, Tennessee 

PATRICK J. TOOMEY, Pennsylvania 

DEAN HELLER, Nevada 

TIM SCOTT, South Carolina 

BEN SASSE, Nebraska 

TOM COTTON, Arkansas 

MIKE ROUNDS, South Dakota 

DAVID PERDUE, Georgia 

THOM TILLIS, North Carolina 

JOHN KENNEDY, Louisiana 

SHERROD BROWN, Ohio 

JACK REED, Rhode Island 

ROBERT MENENDEZ, New Jersey 

JON TESTER, Montana 

MARK R. WARNER, Virginia 

ELIZABETH WARREN, Massachusetts 

HEIDI HEITKAMP, North Dakota 

JOE DONNELLY, Indiana 

BRIAN SCHATZ, Hawaii 

CHRIS VAN HOLLEN, Maryland 

CATHERINE CORTEZ MASTO, Nevada 

GREGG RICHARD, Staff Director 

MARK POWDEN, Democratic Staff Director 

ELAD ROISMAN, Chief Counsel 

MATT JONES, Professional Staff Member 

LAURA SWANSON, Democratic Deputy Staff Director 

COLIN MCGINNIS, Democratic Policy Director 

BETH COOPER, Democratic Professional Staff Member 

DAWN RATLIFF, Chief Clerk 

CAMERON RICKER, Hearing Clerk 

SHELVIN SIMMONS, IT Director 

JIM CROWELL, Editor 

(II)

(III) 

C O N T E N T S 

TUESDAY, JULY 18, 2017 

Page 

Opening statement of Chairman Crapo ................................................................. 1 

Opening statements, comments, or prepared statements of: 

Senator Brown .................................................................................................. 2 

Senator Shelby 

Prepared statements ................................................................................. 33 

WITNESS 

Statement of Orrin G. Hatch, a U.S. Senator from the State of Utah ................ 4 

NOMINEES 

Paul Compton, of Alabama, to be General Counsel, Department of Housing 

and Urban Development ...................................................................................... 5 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 33 

Biographical sketch of nominee ....................................................................... 34 

Responses to written questions of: 

Senator Brown ........................................................................................... 98 

Senator Shelby ........................................................................................... 99 

Senator Reed .............................................................................................. 99 

Senator Menendez ..................................................................................... 100 

Anna Maria Farias, of Texas, to be Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing 

and Equal Opportunity, Department of Housing and Urban Development .... 6 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 44 

Biographical sketch of nominee ....................................................................... 45 

Responses to written questions of: 

Senator Brown ........................................................................................... 101 

Senator Reed .............................................................................................. 102 

Senator Menendez ..................................................................................... 102 

Neal Rackleff, of Texas, to be Assistant Secretary for Community Planning 

and Development, Department of Housing and Urban Development ............. 8 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 59 

Biographical sketch of nominee ....................................................................... 61 

Responses to written questions of: 

Senator Brown ........................................................................................... 104 

Senator Shelby ........................................................................................... 105 

Senator Reed .............................................................................................. 106 

Senator Menendez ..................................................................................... 108 

Senator Heitkamp ..................................................................................... 109 

Richard Ashooh, of New Hampshire, to be Assistant Secretary for Export 

Administration, Department of Commerce ........................................................ 10 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 70 

Biographical sketch of nominee ....................................................................... 71 

Responses to written questions of: 

Senator Brown ........................................................................................... 111 

Senator Menendez ..................................................................................... 111 

Elizabeth Erin Walsh, of the District of Columbia, to be Assistant Secretary 

for Global Markets and Director General of the United States and Foreign 

Commerical Service, Department of Commerce ................................................ 11 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 84 

Biographical sketch of nominee ....................................................................... 86 

Page

IV 

Elizabeth Erin Walsh, of the District of Columbia, to be Assistant Secretary 

for Global Markets and Director General of the United States and Foreign 

Commerical Service, Department of Commerce—Continued 

Responses to written questions of: 

Senator Brown ........................................................................................... 112 

Senator Menendez ..................................................................................... 112 

Christopher Campbell, of California, to be Assistant Secretary for Financial 

Institutions, Department of the Treasury .......................................................... 12 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 92 

Biographical sketch of nominee ....................................................................... 94 

Responses to written questions of: 

Senator Brown ........................................................................................... 113 

Senator Shelby ........................................................................................... 114 

Senator Reed .............................................................................................. 114 

Senator Menendez ..................................................................................... 115 

ADDITIONAL MATERIAL SUPPLIED FOR THE RECORD

Letters submitted in support of the nomination of Paul Compton ...................... 117 

Letter submitted in support of the nomination of Anna Maria Farias ............... 122 

Letters submitted in support of the nomination of Neal Rackleff ....................... 123 

(1) 

NOMINATIONS OF PAUL COMPTON, ANNA 

MARIA FARIAS, NEAL RACKLEFF, RICHARD 

ASHOOH, ELIZABETH ERIN WALSH, AND 

CHRISTOPHER CAMPBELL 

TUESDAY, JULY 18, 2017 

U.S. SENATE, 

COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN AFFAIRS, 

Washington, DC. 

The Committee met at 10:03 a.m., in room SD–538, Dirksen Senate Office Building, Hon. Mike Crapo, Chairman of the Committee, 

presiding. 

OPENING STATEMENT OF CHAIRMAN MIKE CRAPO 

Chairman CRAPO. This hearing will come to order. 

This morning we will consider the nominations of six individuals 

to serve in key leadership posts within the Administration. 

Welcome to all of you, and congratulations on your nomination to 

these important positions. I see friends and family behind you 

today, and we welcome them here as well. 

The nominees before us are: Paul Compton, to be HUD General 

Counsel; Anna Farias, to be HUD Assistant Secretary for Fair 

Housing and Equal Opportunity; Neal Rackleff, to be HUD Assistant Secretary for Community Planning and Development; Mr. Richard Ashooh, to be Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration; Elizabeth Erin Walsh, to be Assistant Secretary of 

Commerce for Global Markets and Director-General of the United 

States and Foreign Commercial Service; and Christopher Campbell, 

to be Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Financial Institutions. 

Each of these nominees brings diverse life and work experience 

and expertise which will play an important role in shaping national 

policy and advancing economic opportunities for Americans. 

Mr. Compton has dedicated his entire 30-year legal career to affordable housing and community development and has developed 

an intimate familiarity with HUD’s various programs. This will enable him, as General Counsel of HUD, to provide effective counsel 

to Secretary Carson and be a valuable resource for other HUD program administrators. 

Ms. Farias, who grew up in public housing in Crystal City, 

Texas, later returned to run the Crystal City housing authority 

and, leading by example, lived in one of the units that she managed. She also served twice as a HUD Deputy Assistant Secretary 

and has dedicated much of her legal career to developing diverse 

communities and fighting discrimination in housing. 

2 

Mr. Rackleff, as well, has on-the-ground community development 

experience, directing the Houston Housing and Community Development Department and serving as General Counsel for the Housing Authority of the city of Houston. 

Mr. Ashooh served for over two decades in the aerospace industry, ensuring the success of programs that protect our warfighters, 

particularly in the electronic warfare space. This experience should 

equip him well to develop policies and regulations for the Bureau 

of Industry and Security which handles our Nation’s critical export 

control system. 

Ms. Walsh has had an extensive international career in both the 

public and private sector, including experience at the State Department and the United Nations. In her position, she would assist 

United States firms in entering foreign markets as well as promote 

investment into the United States. 

Mr. Campbell serves as Staff Director for the Senate Finance 

Committee, where he has developed a strong reputation of policy 

expertise, and an ability to work with both sides of the aisle to get 

results done. Chris has been instrumental in the enactment of significant recent legislative accomplishments in trade, health care, 

customs reform, and tax extenders. Senators from both sides of the 

aisle have looked to Chris for his policy insights and strategic 

know-how. 

As a member of the Finance Committee myself, I know Chris 

well, and I know that he also understands how the Senate and the 

Treasury can work together to enact meaningful reform. 

Passing bipartisan legislation to promote economic growth is one 

of my top priorities in this Congress, and if he is confirmed, I look 

forward to working closely with Chris and the other Members of 

this Committee on getting legislation enacted into law. 

I urge all of my colleagues to confirm all six of you today. Thank 

you. 

The Committee will continue its work to push nominations 

through as expeditiously as possible so that our agencies have all 

the personnel they need to tackle the critical issues facing our 

country. 

Once again, congratulations to all of you on your nominations to 

these very important offices, and thank you for your willingness to 

serve. 

Senator Brown. 

STATEMENT OF SENATOR SHERROD BROWN 

Senator BROWN. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I second the 

Chairman’s comments about thanking you for your willingness to 

serve. We all appreciate that. I am thrilled to see you here today. 

I am glad that this Administration, after months and months of 

bungling nominees and indifference and criticism of Federal employees and attacks on the character of lots of people, is finally taking its job more seriously and actually nominating public servants 

to carry out the work that you all pledge to do and you all want 

to do. And, again, I thank you for putting your private sector jobs 

aside and private sector work to serve the public. Thank you for 

that. 

3 

Thanks to your families especially because their lives may, in 

fact, change, too, and they will be part of the work you do in so 

many ways. So thank you for that. 

Mr. Chris Campbell has been nominated by President Trump to 

serve as Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions at the Department of Treasury. This position is responsible for developing 

and coordinating the Treasury’s policies regarding financial institutions. 

My support for Wall Street reform is clear. I am very concerned 

about efforts coming out of the White House to roll back important 

rules we put in place after the financial crisis to protect consumers 

and prevent more taxpayer bailouts. We have seen collective amnesia in this town about what happened to workers who lost jobs, 

homeowners who lost homes, renters who were evicted, and so 

many others, seniors and others, who lost their lifetime saving. 

There is a collective amnesia in this body and on this Committee 

from time to time, far too often, about what happened. 

I have known Mr. Campbell for several years. I appreciate his 

long history of working together with Senator Crapo and me and 

others, Senator Menendez on this Committee and others who serve 

both on the Finance Committee and now serve on Banking, have 

appreciated your work to foster bipartisanship on the Finance 

Committee. Thank you, Mr. Campbell, for that. 

If confirmed, I hope he will do the same in this role and be a 

strong voice to protect and strengthen the Dodd-Frank rules that 

promote financial stability, promote safety and soundness, strong 

consumer protections, and not just adopt industry talking points. 

We will be considering three nominees for the Department of 

Housing and Urban Development today. All of these positions are 

important for fulfilling HUD’s mission of creating strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. 

HUD and its programs are critical to families and communities in 

Ohio and across the country. 

If confirmed as General Counsel, Mr. Paul Compton—thank you 

for your willingness to serve—will help set the tone for HUD’s approach to legislation, to renter and homeowner protections, and to 

enforcement. 

If confirmed as Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal 

Opportunity, Ms. Anna Maria Farias would be responsible for implementing and enforcing HUD’s fair housing laws. 

Mr. Neal Rackleff is an affordable housing and community development attorney who recently led the city of Houston’s Housing 

and Community Development Department. The President nominated him to serve as the Assistant Secretary for the Office of 

Community Planning and Development, which administers the 

Community Development Block Grant, HOME, and Homeless Assistance Programs. Your work is especially important, Mr. Rackleff. 

We will be considering two nominees for the Department of Commerce. 

Mr. Richard Ashooh has been nominated as Assistant Secretary 

to assist and advise the Under Secretary of Commerce on the development of policies affecting export administration issues. This 

position provides direction to and management of the national security, nonproliferation, foreign policy, national defense, and 

4 

strategic industrial resource functions at the Bureau of Industry 

and Security. This is a critical, though often overlooked, national 

security role in our Government. 

And Ms. Erin Walsh has been nominated to serve as Assistant 

Secretary—welcome—for Global Markets and Director General of 

the U.S. Foreign and Commercial Service, where she would direct 

the activities of the International Trade Administration’s export 

promotion programs. We know American products made by American workers can compete with any in the world if given the 

chance. That is what this position will do, give American companies the chance. 

That gives me a moment to touch on something Senator 

Heitkamp and I have worked unrelentingly on, and that is the Export-Import Bank. We continue to be disappointed by this Administration’s back-and-forth—not your issue, I understand, but this is 

a public forum—for it/against it on the Ex-Im Bank, first on reauthorization, then the issues of appointments, then not appointing, 

then appointing somebody who seems to want to emasculate the 

Bank, then backing of, and now seeming to be supportive again of 

that nominee. All of those things matter to us on this Committee 

because we know for you to do your job well, you also need a vibrant financial sector that actually can help U.S. companies export. 

This position for which Ms. Walsh was nominated provides strategic direction and management oversight for a network of trade 

professionals located around the world, responsible for American 

firms’ entry into foreign markets and expansion of exports, and for 

promoting foreign direct investment in the United States. 

So congratulations, all of you. Again, thank you for your unselfish willingness to serve our country. 

Thank you. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you very much. 

We just noticed that Senator Hatch, the Chairman of the Finance 

Committee and someone who is very interested in Mr. Campbell, 

has just arrived. I would ask him to come up. Would you like to 

take a seat right here? Senator, please, right here. And if you 

would like to make a comment at all, we would certainly appreciate 

it. We are just doing introductions right now. 

STATEMENT OF ORRIN G. HATCH, A U.S. SENATOR FROM THE 

STATE OF UTAH 

Senator HATCH. Well, I have known Chris Campbell for quite a 

long time. He has been a tremendous staff leader on the Finance 

Committee, among other things, and we have traveled the country 

together. He is honest, straightforward, very dedicated, intelligent, 

about everything you would want in somebody working with Treasury. He is just a very, very fine fellow. 

So I am happy to be here and am grateful that you have given 

me this opportunity to say a few words. 

Chairman CRAPO. Well, thank you, Senator. And I know you 

have got another hearing going and other things that will take 

your time, so any time you can spend with us we appreciate. 

And I know, Chris, this is one of the parts of the job to have the 

spotlight put on you when your boss shows up to give you a special 

introduction, but that is, I think, very appropriate. 

5 

Before we do the testimony, I would like to issue an oath, so 

would each of you please stand and raise your right hand? Do you 

swear or affirm that the testimony you are about to give is the 

truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you God? 

Please say, ‘‘I do.’’ 

Mr. COMPTON. I do. 

Ms. FARIAS. I do. 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I do. 

Mr. ASHOOH. I do. 

Ms. WALSH. I do. 

Mr. CAMPBELL. I do. 

Chairman CRAPO. And do you agree to appear and testify before 

any duly constituted Committee of the Senate? 

Mr. COMPTON. I do. 

Ms. FARIAS. I do. 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I do. 

Mr. ASHOOH. I do. 

Ms. WALSH. I do. 

Mr. CAMPBELL. I do. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you. You can take your seats. 

Your written statement will be made a part of the record in its 

entirety. Before you begin, I invite you to introduce your family, if 

you choose to. And, again, before I move to you, Mr. Compton, to 

start, I want to remind all of my colleagues once again that we 

have 5 minutes for the questioning period, and I will promise to 

honor my 5 minutes and encourage you to honor it as well. That 

also applies to you and your statements, those of you who are testifying. 

We like to try to keep the Committee on time as we are always 

bumping up against schedules. 

And, with that, Mr. Compton, please proceed. 

STATEMENT OF PAUL COMPTON, OF ALABAMA, TO BE GENERAL COUNSEL, DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT 

Mr. COMPTON. Thank you, Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member 

Brown, and this entire Committee for the opportunity to testify before you today. I am honored to have been nominated by the President to be the General Counsel of the Department of Housing and 

Urban Development and, if confirmed, to have the privilege to work 

with Secretary Carson. 

But I want to begin, Chairman, as you invited, to introduce my 

wife of almost 30 years, Dana Compton; our three children, Katie, 

Anne, and Jay; and Katie’s husband, Cameron Pulsifer, who is 

making his first trip to the Nation’s capital for this visit. 

Mr. Chairman, when I was in law school at the University of Virginia, I had the distinct honor of visiting with Justice Lewis Powell, who had just retired from the Supreme Court and was spending 

a semester at the law school. When I asked him where I should 

practice law, his response was: ‘‘Go somewhere you can make a difference.’’ 

I followed that advice. I returned to my native Alabama, where 

I have practiced with the same law firm, Bradley Arant Boult 

Cummings, for 28 years. Back in the early years, as a young 

6 

attorney, I was initially attracted to the banking area of practice. 

Increasingly, though, I found myself focusing on housing issues. It 

proved to be a natural fit. I realized I could make a profound 

difference by using the law to help create shelter and security for 

vulnerable people while builders and investors at the same time reinforced the local economy. 

I jumped at the chance when asked to find a way for a local bank 

to be an equity partner in a planned apartment building for lowincome housing residents in Tuscaloosa. It was a novel question at 

the time. I succeeded—with results that were gratifying—and my 

career took on a new emphasis. 

Over the next several years, I represented that bank in 70 transactions as it grew to be a regional institution, creating more than 

5,000 units of affordable housing throughout the southeastern 

United States. Since then, I have worked on hundreds more affordable housing transactions, with other investors, developers, lenders, and public housing authorities in public-private partnerships 

that benefited low-income residents. 

I have often noted that the complexity of transactions goes up exponentially with the number of programs and parties that are involved. And some of these transactions were indeed enormously 

complicated, but we almost always found a way to succeed. I encouraged clients to think of themselves as repeat players, to focus 

on their long-term reputation, and to look for win-win solutions. I 

think because of this approach, I was tapped to become the outside 

General Counsel to the Alabama Affordable Housing Association. 

Which brings me to the present day and my nomination to serve 

as HUD’s next General Counsel. I look back at Justice Powell’s advice to me all those years ago, and I cannot help but think I am 

still heeding it to this day. 

HUD is a place where I can make a difference for our fellow citizens. If confirmed, I will strive each day during my tenure to ensure that the Department and its 8,000 dedicated employees operate in a legal and ethical manner. I will work to apply the law 

thoughtfully, vigorously, and as Congress intended. And I pledge to 

work with all the Members of this Committee to find solutions to 

the Nation’s housing challenges and to eliminate barriers to affordable housing. 

Mr. Chairman, I am grateful to this Committee for holding this 

hearing on my nomination, and I look forward to addressing your 

questions. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you, Mr. Compton. 

Ms. Farias. 

STATEMENT OF ANNA MARIA FARIAS, OF TEXAS, TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR FAIR HOUSING AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT 

Ms. FARIAS. Thank you, Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member 

Brown, and all the distinguished Members of this Committee. 

I would like to thank President Trump for nominating me to be 

Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity and 

Secretary Carson for his strong support of my nomination. 

7 

But I would also like to recognize the most important person in 

my life—my mom, Ofelia Gutierrez. She is not with us today. She 

is 89, she is disabled, but she is watching us. I am an only child. 

All of my cousins are working, which is exactly where I want them. 

I will just give them a summary version of what happens here 

today. 

But today I would like to recognize the Honorable Kim 

Kendrick—she is the former Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing 

and Equal Opportunity nominated by former President George W. 

Bush—and my fellow nominees here on the panel. And if we are 

confirmed, I am looking forward to working with all of them. 

The mission at HUD is to provide access to safe, affordable housing to all Americans, and my job would be the chief enforcer of the 

Nation’s fair housing laws. I am fully, strongly committed to those 

laws. FHEO leads the Nation in the development, enforcement, and 

public understanding of the Fair Housing Act. 

I come before you with 20 years of experience in the Federal Government, including 8 at HUD. But, most importantly, you need to 

know where I was before those 20 years. I am a product of the Fair 

Housing Act, even though I got to the housing projects in 1963, 5 

years before that law passed. I am the daughter of a single mother 

with a third-grade education, a domestic, working 6 1⁄2 days a week, earning between $12 and $20 per week. The one thing my mother 

always said was, ‘‘You need to get an education so that you can do 

something differently than I am doing. I know that as a domestic, 

my job is honorable and honest. I just want something different.’’ 

I saw how much she sacrificed for me, and I quickly realized 

that, for me, hard work meant success, not just survival. 

As the high school valedictorian, I had a choice, and I selected 

Boston University, who gave me a full 4-year scholarship, and once 

again there I was blessed to come across someone who really had 

my best interest at heart. He was a young philosophy professor 

who became my mentor, and he is still my mentor. His name: William J. Bennett. 

When he became Secretary of Education, I gave up a safe legal 

career in the Government to go work by his side, and I can assure 

you there was never a dull moment working for William J. Bennett. 

In between Administrations, I did the one thing I always said I 

was not going to do. I went back home to run the housing authority, and I agreed to be among the first ones to live in the housing 

while I was there. The housing commissioners assigned me to what 

was then called ‘‘Project Terror.’’ It was the site of murders, rapes, 

child prostitution, child pornography, and drug dealing. My job was 

to clean it up. 

I stayed there 6 years, thinking that I could do it in 6 months, 

and I was successful. And that is because the majority of the tenants wanted the same thing for their children and grandchildren 

that my mother had wanted for me as a child: safety and an opportunity for an education. 

As a result of our work together, we won over 12 national awards 

of merit, including several for Section 3. And in 2000, I was inducted into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame for my work at the 

housing authority. 

8 

Today I am very proud to be the Chair of the Board of Regents 

of the Texas Woman’s University, once again getting always back 

to education. 

Mr. Chairman, FHEO is an extremely important office to millions of Americans. If confirmed, my approach will be exactly what 

it has always been: apply the statute, the rules, and the facts in 

enforcing housing laws vigorously and in an impartial manner. And 

I pledge to work in a bipartisan manner with this Committee and 

Congress to meet the housing challenges facing our Nation. 

I thank the Members of this Committee for this great honor and 

opportunity to appear before you today, and I stand ready to answer your questions. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you, Ms. Farias. 

Mr. Rackleff. 

STATEMENT OF NEAL RACKLEFF, OF TEXAS, TO BE 

ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR COMMUNITY PLANNING AND 

DEVELOPMENT, DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Thank you, Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member 

Brown, and all the Members of the Committee for inviting me to 

testify today. 

I am delighted to have my wife of 29 years, the lovely Christa 

Rackleff, with me; and my daughters, Eve and Karen, who are here 

with me today, two of our four children. Our other two children, 

Stephen and Annie, and our son-in-law, Brett, were unable to make 

it. My wife is the pillar of strength in our family. She is my best 

friend and in every single way she is my better, and I am so grateful for her. My family is truly the most important thing to me in 

time and eternity. 

Mr. Chairman, I am honored to be nominated to serve as Assistant Secretary of Community Planning and Development for the 

Housing and Urban Development Department. 

For over 20 years I have worked at the intersection of the public 

and private sectors, doing real estate development focused on resurrecting ailing communities and providing high-quality housing 

for hardworking, good people who, despite their best efforts, are 

still in need. 

I started on this path as a young city attorney in the mid-1990s. 

Downtown Houston was in trouble. Property values were declining 

and population was fleeing to the suburbs. Under the direction of 

a visionary mayor, I served on the team that successfully implemented public-private partnerships to redevelop historic downtown 

properties and revitalize a public housing complex that had been 

mired in litigation for years. 

Houston not only turned around, but came roaring back, after 

these projects truly ignited a downtown renaissance. I was blessed 

to learn from some of the brightest legal and real estate experts in 

the city’s history. We used private sector creativity and innovation 

to achieve results with the public sector that neither sector—the 

public or private—could accomplish alone. 

Public-private partnerships can accomplish incredible change. 

For example, a terribly blighted apartment complex plagued a 

Houston inner-city community. For more than 10 years, local, 

9 

State, and Federal officials tried to condemn and demolish the 

structure, but a wily slum lord successfully slipped from their 

grasp. 

My team took a different approach. We analyzed the market 

forces at work, then partnered with the local school district and 

used funds, from a tax increment finance district and the school 

district, to purchase and demolish the slum property. I am really 

proud to say that an elementary school stands today on the former 

epicenter of blight that was dragging down an entire neighborhood. 

My faith has been a formative factor in focusing on families in 

need. I served as the bishop of an inner-city congregation for many 

years and saw firsthand how hard so many people struggle to meet 

basic needs. And I became convinced that most people struggling 

with poverty truly desire a hand up rather than a handout. So I 

decided to do what I could to be part of the solution in helping people become more self-reliant. 

I left the practice of law at Locke Lord and went back to the city 

of Houston and ended up running the Department of Housing and 

Community Development. When I took the reins at the department, it was struggling. Looming over it were 102 HUD findings 

and over $80 million in potential fines. But a great team pulled 

together and not only cleared every finding, but we transformed 

our department into one of the finest and most effective in the Nation. 

During my tenure the department financed completion of 7,800 

high-quality affordable multifamily housing units; another 2,700 

are in progress, under construction. And we assisted 1,700 singlefamily homeowners with reconstruction of hurricane-damaged 

homes, financial assistance for low-income homebuyers, and emergency home repairs. 

I can tell you that Houston truly has an unstoppable ‘‘can-do’’ 

spirit. During this same timeframe, the city, Harris County, the 

for-profit and nonprofit sectors all partnered with HUD to alleviate 

homelessness. Within a few years, we reduced chronic homelessness by more than 70 percent and became the first major city in 

the country to effectively eliminate the homelessness of veterans. 

I will also tell you that I have become convinced that the democratization of data is key to more effective governance. As an example, in the aftermath of severe flooding, I worked with a coalition 

of faith-based and nonprofit groups to alleviate suffering in Houston. We mined the city’s fire, police, and public works databases to 

generate GIS maps, enabling churches and civic groups to locate 

and serve the elderly and disabled who desperately needed help. 

We then utilized an open-source social media platform to share 

data and avoid duplication of efforts as the various philanthropic 

groups worked together in the same space. 

I have been truly amazed to see the successes that are possible 

in ameliorating suffering when people put aside differences and 

ideologies in a united effort to help their neighbors. Love has animated the work I have been a part of, and I truly love the people 

I serve. 

Mr. Chairman, Committee, thank you very much for this opportunity to appear before you. I welcome your questions. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you, Mr. Rackleff. 

10 

Mr. Ashooh. 

STATEMENT OF RICHARD ASHOOH, OF NEW HAMPSHIRE, TO 

BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR EXPORT ADMINISTRATION, 

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 

Mr. ASHOOH. Thank you, Mr. Chairman and Ranking Member 

Brown and to the rest of the Committee. I am honored to be before 

you today, and I am grateful to the President and the Secretary of 

Commerce for their confidence in me to serve in this capacity. 

I would love to introduce the family I have that is here. My wife 

of 25 years is behind me, Laurie. It only feels like 2, but it has 

been 25. And my daughter, Emma, who is here as a delegate for 

the other four children that could not be here—Sophie, Elias, 

Maya, and Sam. And I also welcome Angeline, who is Emma’s sister in residence here as her roommate. 

I would also like to acknowledge the memory of a former boss, 

mentor, and friend named Warren Rudman, whom I got to know 

on these very premises years ago as a staffer for him. His example 

of fidelity to the country, his colleagues, and the Constitution still 

stands as guiding principles in my own life. 

Everyone in America is familiar with the Boston Tea Party. But 

you would have to come from New Hampshire as I do to be familiar 

with the Pine Tree Riot. Briefly, the Pine Tree Riot was a pre-revolutionary protest in New Hampshire against the British Crown’s 

attempt to regulate the colonial pine tree trade. This is significant 

because these mighty pine trees made the best ships’ masts, and 

the King reserved the best of them for the Royal Navy, allowing 

Great Britain to project power all over the world. The colonists rejected this intrusion into their economy and livelihoods, and the 

Pine Tree Riot was one of several incidents that led the way to 

Revolution. 

Why this obscure history lesson? Well, these pine trees were the 

turbofan engines of their day—technology that was vital both to 

national security and civilian commerce. The Crown’s behavior was 

in effect an export control—one that did not work out very well for 

the King. The point is we need to weigh the national security implications of our technology trade, and it has been with us since before we were a Nation. 

The position to which I have been nominated sits at the intersection where national security, technology, and the economy meet. 

Never has this juncture been more critical. The number and nature 

of the threats facing our Nation, from state and nonstate actors 

alike, has grown. Meanwhile, the pace of technology has not only 

accelerated dramatically; it has shifted. The national security establishment once led areas of technology development that are now 

driven by the commercial sector. The responsibility for eliminating 

the vulnerabilities to our Nation presented by these dynamic shifts, 

while encouraging robust trade in the technology sector, rests 

squarely with the Bureau of Industry and Security. The workload 

at BIS—which has increased and will continue to do so—further reflects these trends. 

Both my desire and readiness to serve in this capacity is a product of a career spent advancing key elements of this mission. Early 

in my career as a Senate staffer, I was privileged to work on issues 

11 

concerning technology transfer, in particular to adversary nations. 

It is worth noting that the global parties of concern at that time— 

specifically, China, Russia, and Iran—occupy more or less the policy priorities BIS faces today. 

After more than two decades of experience in the aerospace industry, where I was able to work on behalf of our Nation’s most 

advanced technology enterprises, the strictures of the U.S. export 

control regime were, and still are, well known to me. I understand 

better than most the challenges and necessities associated with 

technology development, believing that our success as a Nation is 

underpinned by our ability to remain ahead of our adversaries in 

this area, both commercially and strategically. 

These experiences imparted to me countless lessons that can help 

advance the critical mission of the Bureau, especially in the challenging times that we have. Should I be honored with confirmation, 

I would look forward to working with you as we endeavor to meet 

these challenges. 

Thank you again for the privilege of being with you today, and 

I look forward to your questions. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you, Mr. Ashooh. 

Ms. Walsh. 

STATEMENT OF ELIZABETH ERIN WALSH, OF THE DISTRICT 

OF COLUMBIA, TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR GLOBAL 

MARKETS AND DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE UNITED 

STATES AND FOREIGN COMMERCIAL SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 

Ms. WALSH. Thank you, Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member 

Brown, and distinguished Members of the Banking Committee. I 

am grateful for the opportunity to appear before you today. I am 

very honored to be here as President Trump’s nominee for Assistant Secretary for Global Markets and Director General of the U.S. 

and Foreign Commercial Services. I am so honored to have my 

family with me on this special day. If you do not mind, I would like 

to introduce my father, Michael Walsh; my sister, Anne Walsh; and 

my mother and sister were unable to come today. 

Over the past several days, I have had the pleasure of meeting 

Members of this Committee and your staff. Thank you for taking 

the time to share your insights and perspectives on the economic 

conditions of your home States. If confirmed, I look forward to 

working closely with you and with your team. 

I bring to this nomination over 30 years of public and private 

sector experience. Through my work I have had the opportunity to 

gain extensive knowledge of foreign and economic affairs in Asia, 

the Middle East, and Africa, and I have traveled to or worked in 

100 countries. 

A Georgetown University graduate, I interned at the White 

House during school before landing a full-time position in the Office of Political Affairs. I also worked at the Department of Energy 

and later joined the Department of State, where I served as the 

Deputy Manager and then Acting Manager of Blair House. In 1989, 

I moved to New York to serve as the Chief of Protocol to the U.S. 

Mission to the U.N. In 1994, I joined UNICEF as the head of emergency operations in Tuzla, Bosnia, during the war. I later left 

12 

Bosnia to attend graduate school at the London School of Economics and then returned to Sarajevo to work with the United Nations 

as an economic and political affairs officer. 

Returning home from Bosnia, I went to work at Cisco, where I 

built a strong partnership organization to bring the Cisco Networking Academy Program to 90 countries around the globe, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Central America, including 41 of the 

least developed countries in the world. 

After several years in the private sector, I returned to the State 

Department in 2005 to serve as a Senior Advisor in the Bureau of 

Near Eastern Affairs. I was recruited to formulate and execute a 

strategic plan to advance U.S. policy interests, strengthen alliances, and establish programs focused on women across 16 countries in the Middle East and North Africa. 

At Goldman Sachs I was based in China and led the firm’s philanthropic activities in Asia Pacific. I developed a long-term strategic platform in Asia, seeking to foster economic growth and opportunity through investment in the community, public engagement, and partnership building. Through this experience I have 

seen firsthand the role the private sector can play in facilitating 

and enhancing America’s prominence abroad and in advancing U.S. 

values. Furthermore, I know the critical role the U.S. Government 

plays in leveling the playing field to ensure U.S. companies can 

compete abroad and to ensure that our foreign competitors abide 

by their commitments and play by the same rules. I am passionate 

about the mission of the Department of Commerce and can think 

of nothing more meaningful or impactful than creating jobs 

through promoting U.S. exports or attracting foreign direct investment into the United States. 

Trade, exports, and foreign direct investment are a powerful engine for economic growth. With 95 percent of the world’s population 

outside of the United States and more than one in five American 

jobs supported by trade, the Office of Global Markets has a critical 

role to play. Last year alone, for every $1 appropriated to Global 

Markets, an estimated $192 was returned to the American economy in the form of increased exports and FDI for a total impact 

of $62.2 billion, which supported approximately 300,000 U.S. jobs. 

I am deeply grateful to Secretary Ross for his leadership and confidence in me. If confirmed, I look forward to having the opportunity to lead this organization, with all the amazing people that 

we have in the field, both at home and abroad. And I will bring 

to it my global experience and business background as well as my 

knowledge of how to leverage Government resources to ensure effectiveness. 

Thank you for your time today and for your consideration of my 

nomination. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you, Ms. Walsh. 

Mr. Campbell. 

STATEMENT OF CHRISTOPHER CAMPBELL, OF CALIFORNIA, 

TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member Brown, and 

distinguished Members of the Committee, thank you for the 

13 

opportunity to appear before you today and considering my nomination to be Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Financial Institutions. I am deeply honored and humbled to have been selected 

for this position and am grateful to President Trump and Secretary 

Mnuchin for the opportunity to continue my career in public service 

in a different venue. 

Before I get too far into my statement, I would like to recognize 

the members of my family who are in attendance today. With me 

today are my sister Michelle, my brother-in-law Richard, my brother Eric, and my sister Catherine. I also want to acknowledge my 

two other siblings who were not able to make it today: my brothers 

Scot and Marc. My mother would surely like to be here today, but 

she is too ill to travel. But I know she is watching from home. 

I also want to acknowledge my many friends, colleagues, and 

former colleagues who are here, many of whom have flown here for 

this occasion and for the hearing, and I appreciate them being 

here. 

I want to thank every one of them for being here and for their 

love and support. One does not receive opportunities like this without years of help from many, many people, and that is certainly the 

case for me. 

I come from the humblest of beginnings. I lived most of my childhood in poverty, really never thinking that I would be afforded the 

opportunities that have been presented to me over the last two decades. 

The first great opportunity that came my way was the chance to 

join Senator Orrin Hatch’s campaign for President as the national 

field director. I think Senator Hatch would agree that, after that 

initial experience in politics and public service, there was really nowhere to go but up. 

Despite the results of that particular campaign, the Senator for 

some reason asked me to run his 2000 campaign for reelection. 

This was, to say the least, a lot of responsibility for a relatively inexperienced kid, but, thankfully, that campaign was a huge success, and I have worked with the Senator in a variety of capacities 

since that election, most recently as Staff Director for the Senate 

Finance Committee. 

I am, of course, grateful to Senator Hatch for his support and his 

encouragement over these years. He has been a mentor to me, and 

I certainly would not be here if not for his skillful tutoring. 

During my time in the Senate, I have worked hard to cultivate 

a reputation for three things. 

First and foremost, I have sought to be known as an effective advocate and strategist for achieving the goals of my employer, 

whether it be the Senator or the Committee. 

Second, I have worked to be known as one who prefers and effectively facilitates bipartisan cooperation. Throughout my career I 

have begun every effort with the presumption that a bipartisan result would be the preferred one and more enduring than a partisan 

one and have worked to achieve those kinds of outcomes. 

Finally, I have endeavored to build a reputation for being a good 

manager and leader. On the Finance Committee, Chairman Hatch 

and I have put together an effective and professional staff. Leading 

14 

this team has been one of my most proud professional achievements. 

I cannot take credit for everything that has happened in the Finance Committee, of course, that we have accomplished there. The 

credit belongs to Chairman Hatch, Ranking Member Wyden, and 

Senator Baucus, who was the Chairman when I first started. But, 

once again, during my time on the Committee and throughout all 

of my time in the Senate, I have sought to leave a mark and build 

a reputation for being an effective advocate, a bipartisan facilitator, 

and a strong leader. 

Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member Brown, I have had the privilege to work closely with you, as well as with many other Members 

of this Committee throughout the years. As you consider my nomination, my hope is that those efforts to build that kind of reputation have been successful and that I have displayed to you those 

kinds of characteristics. 

The Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Financial Institutions is responsible for leading the Treasury’s efforts to monitor 

and regulate our Nation’s banks and securities markets and to ensure our financial sector is resilient in times of crisis. In addition, 

it is responsible for coordinating, among other things, Treasury’s 

work on financial education, consumer protection, community development, affordable housing, and cybersecurity. 

In other words, the position has a broad focus, dealing with the 

largest banks and investment companies as well as small community organizations. This is not unlike the broad jurisdiction of the 

Senate Finance Committee. Successful leadership from this position will require great management skills and the help of many talented career staff at the Department. In addition, it will require a 

balance of competing interests. 

I think it is safe to say that few, if any, nominees considered by 

this Committee have ever been so cognizant of the need for cooperation between Congress and agencies in the executive branch. 

If confirmed, I look forward to working with the Members of this 

Committee to ensure safety and soundness of financial institutions 

and practices, fairness, and avenues through which the financial 

sector works to facilitate economic growth and opportunities for all 

Americans. 

Members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to appear with you today, and I look forward to answering your questions. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you very much, Mr. Campbell. And before I begin the questioning round, I want to say I am super impressed with this panel, not only because of the qualifications that 

each of you have but because each one of you finished your testimony in well less than 5 minutes. 

[Laughter.] 

Chairman CRAPO. I think that is actually a record. Thank you 

very much for that. 

I was going to ask each one of you to just briefly tell me what 

your top priorities are, if you are confirmed. But I am going to ask 

you to do that instead in writing. Following this hearing, each of 

you or at least I expect that each of you will receive some followup questions from Senators, and we will encourage you to respond 

15 

to those as promptly as you can. So consider that to be your first 

question, and that is, just in a paragraph or so, what are your priorities as you move into this position? 

Chairman CRAPO. And then I actually only have one specific 

question for one of you, and that is you, Mr. Ashooh. The last Administration launched an export control reform initiative, some of 

which is still being implemented. My question is: Do you think that 

that initiative has accomplished what it was set out to achieve? 

What else needs to be done? Or should the Administration take a 

different route? 

Mr. ASHOOH. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I agree, many good 

things were done in the prior Administration to do what many 

would consider to be long overdue changes to make our export control regimes more accessible to those who are by necessity accountable to them. 

I do believe there is more to do. I would not prejudge for a moment the entirety of what those things are. If confirmed, I would 

absolutely follow up with you about that, but there is no question 

that I believe the fresh eyes that I would bring to our export control system would certainly result in some opportunities to do 

things even better. 

Chairman CRAPO. All right. Thank you very much. I was going 

to let Senator Hatch take a couple minutes and ask Chris some 

questions when he is under oath. 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Oh, no. 

[Laughter.] 

Chairman CRAPO. But he has politely declined to do that, so you 

just dodged a bullet. 

Mr. CAMPBELL. I am so grateful. 

Chairman CRAPO. With that, I am going to conclude my questioning. Senator Brown. 

Senator BROWN. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 

I do not often suggest reading material to people in the Administration or even colleagues, but I would ask the three HUD nominees to consider reading a couple of books that I have spoken of. 

I was one of, I believe, five or six Democrats to vote for the confirmation of your boss for a number of reasons, and I asked him 

to read two books that I think are particularly important. One is 

‘‘Evicted’’ by Matthew Desmond about the increased rates of foreclosure in this country and how lives turn upside down when someone is foreclosed on or is evicted from their homes. It was a case 

study that he did that was very effective in painting the picture, 

maybe a picture of where you at one time lived, Ms. Farias. 

Written recently, another book, sort of hand in hand with this 

genre of Michael Harrington and others in this country, is a book 

called ‘‘$2.00 a Day,’’ and I would suggest to the three of you that 

you would find time prior to or in your early days of serving this 

Administration for reading those two books. Thank you. 

We have a large panel. I want to get through as many questions 

as possible. Ms. Farias, FHEO is instrumental in implementing 

HUD’s Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing, AFFH, rule. Do you 

support the AFFH rule? And will you commit to implementing it? 

Ms. FARIAS. The law of 1968 makes it very clear that for discrimination against housing that is one of the things grantees have 

16 

to do, and HUD has been implementing it as it was when I was 

there under President Bush. I know that there is a new rule. If 

confirmed, I will review the concerns and—but, yes, it will be implemented. And if there are any changes, they have to comport 

with the law. 

Senator BROWN. OK. Thank you. 

Mr. Campbell, you played a significant role in a colloquy between 

the Chair and Ranking Members on Finance regarding responsiveness by the Administration to requests from both Democrats and 

Republicans. Thank you for that. If confirmed, will you commit to 

reply to every oversight or other letter and request for information, 

from the Chair, or from Members on both sides of this Committee 

in a timely manner? 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Senator Brown, you will find no one that cares 

more about this institution probably than me, and I spent the majority of my time in the minority. I understand the challenges of 

the minority, and everything that is in my power, I will answer 

each question from you or any Member of the Committee. 

Senator BROWN. Thank you. And I would like to ask each of you 

that same question. Will you commit to reply to every oversight or 

other letter and request for information from any of us on this 

panel? Ms. Walsh? 

Ms. WALSH. Yes, Senator, I do commit. 

Senator BROWN. Mr. Ashooh? 

Mr. ASHOOH. Yes, Senator. 

Senator BROWN. Mr. Rackleff? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Yes, sir. 

Senator BROWN. Ms. Farias? 

Ms. FARIAS. Yes, sir. 

Senator BROWN. Mr. Compton? 

Mr. COMPTON. Yes, Senator. 

Senator BROWN. Thank you. Thank you for that. 

Ms. Walsh, you served for several months in the Trump administration transition, both on the campaign, then at the White House 

as a key point of contact for the State Department, including a coleader for the State Department landing team. Did you during that 

period have or arrange any meetings between Russian and U.S. officials? 

Ms. WALSH. No, sir. 

Senator BROWN. OK. Thank you for that. 

Mr. Campbell, at the recent G–20, President Trump said he 

talked with Vladimir Putin about forming a cybersecurity unit to 

guard against future election hacking. It seems like the President 

has since cooled on that idea. Secretary Mnuchin, your future boss, 

echoed the President, described as a ‘‘significant accomplishment’’ 

that President Trump talked with Putin about forming this unit. 

I have not heard the Secretary further comment on it. 

If confirmed, you will play a significant role in Treasury’s cybersecurity efforts. I hope you will not be setting up a cybersecurity 

unit with Russians in your new role. Any comments? 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Senator, I think it is important and I think you 

hopefully would agree that the U.S. lead the efforts, no matter who 

we engage with, on cybersecurity and making sure that we protect 

the critical financial backbone of the financial markets. So 

17 

irrespective of with whom we engage—and, obviously, the Secretary and the President will coordinate those, make those decisions, and I will, as well as working with you guys on the Committee and your staff, make sure that we export America’s values 

and make sure that we protect the critical infrastructure of our financial markets and institutions. 

Senator BROWN. OK. Thank you. And last question. Mr. Compton, if confirmed, you will bring valuable experience in affordable 

housing development and finance as General Counsel. In addition 

to and as part of your affordable housing work, you have spent 

many years representing financial interests, as you told us about 

your background in banking in Alabama. As General Counsel, you 

will be charged with protecting the rights of renters and homebuyers and FHA consumers. 

Tell me, briefly if you can—because I am over my 5 minutes, and 

I respect the Chairman’s admonitions every day. 

[Laughter.] 

Senator BROWN. What will your approach be in protecting the 

rights of these groups, particularly in cases where their interests 

may go up against the interests of the banking industry? 

Mr. COMPTON. Senator, first I recognize, if confirmed, my role as 

General Counsel at the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and it has a broad purview, and certainly in representing 

the Department as my client first, I would coordinate on enforcement matters with my colleagues on that. But I think that my 

background with respect to having represented financial institutions in the past helps me understand the plight of the consumer 

on the other side as well. 

Senator BROWN. OK. Thank you for that. There is concern among 

large swaths of the public that, particularly inside the White House 

and in Treasury and other places, there is simply too much influence by Wall Street and among major banking interests in this Administration, and your role in pushing back against that when you 

get it from the higher-ups is particularly important. So thank you 

for your commitment to do that. 

Mr. COMPTON. Thank you, Senator. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you. 

Senator Shelby. 

Senator SHELBY. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 

Mr. Chairman, I believe we have a distinguished group here from 

Mr. Compton to Mr. Campbell. Everybody is ready to go to work. 

The Administration needs these people. I would call this a sterling 

group. 

I would say a few other words about Mr. Compton. He is well 

known in my State in the area of housing. As he said in his opening statement, he has been involved in development of a lot of lowincome housing, up into the thousands of units. He knows this 

area. We are proud that he is coming in here and taking a job at 

HUD. But I am also proud of all of you accepting the responsibility 

of Federal service, and I look forward to supporting all of you. 

I have a number of questions, but I will submit those for the 

record, and I would like for my opening statement to be made part 

of the record, Mr. Chairman. 

Chairman CRAPO. Without objection. 

18 

Senator SHELBY. And I hope you can expedite, you and Senator 

Brown, these nominees as soon as possible. 

Chairman CRAPO. We intend to try to do that. 

Senator BROWN. Mr. Chairman, we will move at a much more 

rapid pace than we have in the last several years. 

Senator SHELBY. I would think so because we probably have a lot 

more distinguished people to move. 

[Laughter.] 

Senator BROWN. Which we would not know, because we actually 

had so few hearings to find out about them. 

Senator SHELBY. I would say again, when I was Chairman, we 

evaluated people like we are doing now, and I like what I see 

today. 

Chairman CRAPO. You can see why they put me in this seat. 

[Laughter.] 

Chairman CRAPO. Next is Senator Warren. 

Senator WARREN. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. And 

thank you all for being here and for your willingness to serve. 

I want to talk about affordable housing. There is an affordable 

housing crisis in this country. Most experts say that a family that 

spends more than 30 percent of its income on rent will have a very 

hard time meeting their other obligations, you know, for food and 

clothing and transportation. But at this moment, more than 11 million families are paying more than half their income in rent. 

Now, HUD’s core mission is to address the affordable housing crisis, but that actually takes money to make it happen. And even as 

this problem gets worse and worse, Donald Trump wants to slash 

more than $6 billion from the HUD budget next year. That would 

be a 13-percent cut. 

Community Planning and Development is the part of HUD that 

is responsible for developing affordable housing and the surrounding communities so that residents have access to decent jobs 

and to services. The Trump budget would cut the funding for this 

Department by 60 percent, and I do not know how anyone runs a 

Department when more than $1 out of every $2 disappears in a 

single year. 

So let me ask, Mr. Rackleff, if you were nominated to run the 

Community Planning and Development Department, do you support these massive cuts to your Department’s budget? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I do support the President budget. 

Senator WARREN. So I guess then I do not understand what— 

how do you plan to run a Department where you lose 60 percent 

of your money? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I can only say to you, Senator Warren, that whatever resources are afforded to me by the Administration and by 

Congress I will use wisely. We have faced significant cuts at the 

city of Houston in some of the very same funding sources, and it 

has been difficult, but we will find ways to help those that we can. 

Senator WARREN. Let me push back on that. You have touted 

your record at Houston. You said that is the reason that we should 

confirm you, is because you had a great record at Houston. But let 

me just take a look. When you served as director of the Housing 

and Community Development Department for the city of Houston 

from 2012 through July of 2016, according to HUD data, the city 

19 

of Houston received more than $100 million in Federal Community 

Development Block Grants from HUD. And you used that money 

to rehab homes, to remove lead, to improve surrounding roads, all 

trying to increase access to safe and affordable homes. 

Now, if you are confirmed, you are not going to have that same 

money to give to other cities. Do you think other cities do not deserve that same opportunity? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. As I mentioned, I support the President’s budget, 

and I will use whatever resources are afforded to me effectively and 

well. 

Senator WARREN. So what is going to happen to affordable housing in America? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Most of the affordable housing that is generated 

in America today, as you are aware of, I am sure, is financed actually through tax credit equity through the Low-Income Housing 

Tax Credit Program. 

Senator WARREN. Are you telling me the $100 million that Houston got while you were in charge was not helpful as you described 

it at the time to rehab homes, to remove lead, and to improve surrounding roads? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. No; it certainly was helpful. But what I will—I 

am not so concerned about what acronyms are associated with the 

funding that we receive, and I am confident that we will obtain the 

funding necessary to help the people that I care so much about. 

Senator WARREN. I do not think I understand that last answer. 

Are you telling me you think you are going to get the money from 

someplace else? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I am confident in the Congress of the United 

States and the Administration working together to provide the resources that we need to help the people that we both care so much 

about. 

Senator WARREN. Well, the resources we need include, it seems 

to me, the $6 billion that has been spent in the past, that you yourself personally have administered and made good use of in Houston. Are you saying you think we are going to make up that $6 billion somewhere else? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I hope that resources will be found to help us accomplish the things that we need to get done, yes. 

Senator WARREN. So you support the President’s cuts, but you 

hope that they are not actually going to happen? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. No, ma’am. I believe that there are other ways 

that we can find to help folks who need assistance, and I know that 

Dr. Carson has talked about finding other mechanisms to help 

those that we—— 

Senator WARREN. And I think so far, how much extra money 

have you found? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. If confirmed, I will do the best that I can to work 

with—— 

Senator WARREN. How much has he found so far, extra money? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I do not know the answer—— 

Senator WARREN. None. 

Mr. RACKLEFF.——to that question. 

Senator WARREN. I think the answer is none. 

20 

You know, look, I just want to be clear about this. It takes money 

to rehab those homes. It takes money to do lead abatement. It 

takes money to rebuild the roads so there is some transportation 

in and out of these neighborhoods. It takes money to help us accomplish some affordable—to build some affordable housing, to 

make sure we have some affordable housing. And if we turn our 

backs on that, then the affordable housing crisis in this country 

just gets worse. 

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I apologize for going over. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you. 

Senator Rounds. 

Senator ROUNDS. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 

Mr. Rackleff, I would like to just follow this up just a little bit. 

I get the sense that what you are trying to share with the Committee is that your role is to use whatever resources are made 

available to you, you will do in a responsible manner. Is that a fair 

way of putting it? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Yes, sir. You sense my response perfectly. 

Senator ROUNDS. Let me just offer this: I understand where the 

Senator from Massachusetts is coming from in expressing that 

housing is a very important issue. We have the same challenges in 

South Dakota with housing on the reservations and so forth. And, 

most certainly, I recognize that where the President may make recommendations and focus, which has been on defense improvements 

and so forth—which are critical and I agree with him on that—I 

also understand that as part of this process, we will be looking at 

funding for the other agencies as well, and that becomes our role. 

You understand that the appropriations process is where the decisions are actually made, and that belongs to the congressional 

branch of Government. Is that not correct? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Yes, sir, and I have tremendous faith and confidence in our constitutional system. 

Senator ROUNDS. The responsibilities for the actual determination of the amount of money that will be delivered to your Department, which we would expect you to expend in a responsible manner, is our decision, is it not? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Yes, sir. 

Senator ROUNDS. And the money that we do entrust to you, you 

will utilize in the most responsible manner possible. 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Yes, sir. I feel I have a strong history of using 

whatever resources that are made available to me to do a good job 

in helping the people that we all care so much about. 

Senator ROUNDS. Is there anything else on this subject that you 

would like to clarify? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. No, sir. 

Senator ROUNDS. Thank you. 

I do have a couple of other questions for the nominees within our 

housing—or let me begin with Commerce just for a minute. Mr. 

Ashooh and Ms. Walsh—first of all, I want to thank all of you for 

appearing before this Committee. You all have very impressive 

backgrounds and qualifications, and I do appreciate your willingness to step forward and to serve. 

My question is going to be directed to our two nominees for the 

Department of Commerce who will have significant responsibilities 

21 

with respect to trade. You both may be aware that South Dakota 

exports billions of dollars of agricultural products every year. As a 

result, I have been watching with great interest the decisions that 

President Trump has made with respect to agreements like TPP 

and the North American Free Trade Agreement. 

Can you share your views on our evolving trade relationships? 

How will the work that you do to help facilitate and grow our trade 

with other countries come forward? The reason why I ask this 

question is it is one thing to be able to put together a very complicated compact with a number of countries and get as far as we 

did with TPP. But then to try to do the individual agreements 

country by country, while I admire the idea of doing it, it provides 

us with opportunities, the time challenges on this will be significant. 

Can you share your thoughts about how you will prepare and 

move forward with your new roles? 

Mr. ASHOOH. You get to go first. 

Ms. WALSH. OK. Thank you, Senator, for that question. It was 

wonderful to have the opportunity to meet with you in your office, 

so thank you for your time. 

In this role, if confirmed, I think that the focus will definitely be 

on increasing our exports globally. At this point about 1 percent of 

our small- and medium-sized businesses in the United States export, and the role of the Foreign Commercial Services is to really 

focus on each of these businesses, particularly in small- and medium-sized enterprises, to expand their markets globally, to look at 

where the opportunities are and the trends, where there is an increasing level of middle-class consumers. And that is what our 

teams would be looking at at the Department of Commerce, to 

focus on trade and also the reduction of the trade deficit. 

Mr. ASHOOH. Senator, thank you. I would say that the increased 

economic activity that increased our trade creates puts pressure on 

the Bureau of Industry and Security to ensure that we are not losing control of our valuable technology assets. So that is the perspective that BIS would have. 

What I would say is that there are already preexisting multilateral agreements that the Department of Commerce uses in order 

to implement export controls, and I have been impressed to learn 

these run very well. And, if confirmed, I would look forward to ensuring that these agreements continue to serve this important role 

in the face of increasing economic activity. 

Senator ROUNDS. Very good. With regard to housing, one of the 

most pressing concerns from a housing standpoint within our State 

is how our new Administration will work with Native American 

tribes and officials on promoting housing on Native American reservations. Reservations face some of the most significant obstacles 

when it comes to promoting a safe and stable housing supply, and 

oftentimes the remote location and economic challenges make it difficult to promote the growth of new housing stock. 

I am going to ask this for the record. I will respect my 5-minute 

time limit. Could the three of you please respond in writing? Can 

you please discuss your views on tribal housing? And I need to 

bring this to your attention because we have a real lack of housing 

on the reservations themselves. And will you commit to working 

22 

with us and your colleagues to understanding and improving the 

challenges associated with tribal housing? That is a yes or no answer, but I would like that part right now. This is a critical area 

in rural areas where the most poverty in America exists, and housing is a major part of the issue. Would all of you agree to commit 

to responding back to how you see we can work to promote more 

housing in rural areas, particularly reservation areas? And would 

you commit that it is a serious problem and you would agree to 

work with us to find solutions? 

Ms. FARIAS. Yes, Senator Rounds. 

Mr. COMPTON. Yes, Senator, and certainly tribal areas post special issues in public-private partnerships that I am aware of. 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Absolutely, and I would add that I have had a 

fair amount of experience working in Texas in rural areas where 

we have a lot of the same inherent economic challenges in providing housing economically in remote locations. One of the things 

we have done in Texas is to target set-asides of the housing tax 

credit equity that is provided to the State to those areas, and I 

think that there are some innovative things that we can do to help 

you. 

Senator ROUNDS. Thank you. 

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you. 

Senator Menendez. 

Senator MENENDEZ. Mr. Chairman, before I start, I want to 

briefly note that I have some serious concerns about the Committee 

considering this many nominees at one time. The breadth and 

scope of the nominations go from banking, affordable housing, financial institutions, national security, and trade, and within 5 minutes or so, even with the Chairman’s courtesy of letting it go over 

a little bit, the breadth and scope—I just cannot possibly do that 

in 5 minutes. I know others are much more talented than I am, but 

I cannot. 

[Laughter.] 

Senator MENENDEZ. And so, therefore, I will have real problems 

with the nominees unless I get substantive answers to my written 

questions and the lack of being able to pursue the time here. And 

I would hope that the Chair would consider in the future either two 

panels or a smaller set so that we can have the substantive time 

to ask these nominees. 

Ms. Farias, I understand that in response to Ranking Member 

Brown’s questions, you affirmed that you will provide clear guidance to grantees in public housing agencies on how to meet their 

requirement to affirmatively further fair housing under the Fair 

Housing Act, and that you intend to implement the Fair Housing 

Rule affirmatively. Is that fair to say? 

Ms. FARIAS. Yes, Senator Menendez. 

Senator MENENDEZ. Mr. Compton, you are going to be the General Counsel. Will you be doing the same? 

Mr. COMPTON. Yes, Senator. I think implementation of Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing is one of our big projects. 

Senator MENENDEZ. Thank you. 

Mr. Rackleff, your testimony touts your tenure as former director 

of the Houston Housing Community Development Department. 

23 

Under your leadership in Houston, the department produced an 

impressive 7,800 multifamily housing units with another 2,700 in 

progress. 

Would you say that the development of those units expanded access to affordable homes in the Houston area? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Absolutely. 

Senator MENENDEZ. During your time as director, did Houston 

utilize Community Development Block Grant and Home Investment Partnership funds to develop and rehabilitate affordable 

housing units? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. We did. 

Senator MENENDEZ. So I think you would disagree with the 

statement that the Community Development Block Grant Program 

and the Home Investment Partnership have not demonstrated a 

measurable impact on communities. Is that correct? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I can only speak to my own experience in Houston—— 

Senator MENENDEZ. And in your experience, would you say that 

is correct? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. In Houston, we did a great job with those funds. 

Senator MENENDEZ. OK. Now, Mr. Campbell, it is good to see you 

over here in the Banking Committee. 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Good to see you, Senator. 

Senator MENENDEZ. In the Senate Finance Committee as well, it 

is always great to see you there. The President spent a great deal 

of time on the campaign trail highlighting neighborhoods and communities throughout the country that seldom reap the benefits of 

economic expansion but are reliably and disproportionately burdened by economic downturns. And yet, astonishingly to me, the 

Administration has proposed zeroing out the Community Development Financial Institutions, the CDFI funds, which support the 

private community partners that have stepped up for the better 

part of a century to inject capital in these forgotten communities. 

I have not seen any justification rooted in facts, and at least one 

of your future colleagues, NCUA Chair McWatters, told this Committee he opposes the fund’s elimination, a sentiment echoed by the 

ABA and ICBA. 

As Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions, the CDFI fund 

will fall directly under your oversight. If confirmed, will you be an 

advocate to maybe lend some light to the Administration that may 

not have all the information here to try to sustain the important 

work of the CDFI funds? 

Mr. CAMPBELL. So, Senator, as you know, as you are well aware, 

I was not a part of the Administration when the President developed his budget, and as you are also aware, I am definitely a creature of this institution, having worked closely with you on Puerto 

Rico issues and many others. 

With regard to the CDFI specifically, there is—I am confident in 

your and your colleagues’ ability to be able to best determine how 

you want to spend the taxpayer dollars, and if afforded and if appropriated to the CDFI and if confirmed, I will do my level best to 

work with you, your colleagues, interested colleagues and staff 

to—— 

24 

Senator MENENDEZ. Well, I appreciate that you want to punt it 

to us, and I understand that. But let me just say, part of my—I 

just came from a Foreign Relations hearing where I had the same 

problem. Part of the challenge of hearing that answer is that when 

you are confirmed, you will be in a position to advocate policy within the Treasury Department and within the Administration and 

interagency process. And so I know you are going to basically follow the lead of whatever the final decision is, whether by Congress 

or the Administration. 

What I am asking you is: Do you believe the CDFI funds actually 

provide a good basis for development in these communities? And 

can you be an advocate for them even if, at the end of the day, you 

lose your advocacy? 

Mr. CAMPBELL. So, Senator, I want to work with you and your 

staff. I know of your strong commitment to this issue. There are 

some areas of duplications within the Administration that cover 

CDFI. I think there are perhaps ways to streamline those issues 

to make the use of taxpayer funds more efficient and more effective 

to the affected community, and I think we can—and I hope we can 

work together and create a dialogue in which we can find a way 

to better streamline those and be able to deliver those necessary 

and important resources to those affected communities. 

Senator MENENDEZ. Mr. Chairman, I have a series of other questions. I will submit them for the record. I will be looking for substantive responses, and the lack thereof I will have a problem with 

moving the nominees to the floor and hold it on the floor until I 

get them. 

Senator MENENDEZ. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you. 

Senator Tester. 

Senator TESTER. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you all 

for your willingness to serve. 

I am going to start with you, Mr. Rackleff. You are up for the 

position of Secretary of Community Planning and Development. In 

the Trump budget, the Housing Trust Fund has been eliminated, 

the Interagency Council on Homelessness has been eliminated, the 

HOME Program has been eliminated, and the CDBG Program has 

been eliminated. I want to follow up a little bit. You had mentioned 

in a previous question—I believe it was from the Senator from 

Massachusetts—that low-income tax credits could fill that void. Do 

you really believe that? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I do not believe that I conveyed that low-income 

tax credits can fill every other financial void that is out there. My 

statement was simply that low-income tax credits are by far the 

largest source of equity—— 

Senator TESTER. OK. I got that. So is affordable housing important to you? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Absolutely. 

Senator TESTER. OK. So with those being zeroed out, how are we 

going to have any affordable housing initiatives? Anything come to 

mind? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. As I mentioned before, I support the budget as 

presented, and I will do everything I can to utilize funds—— 

Senator TESTER. I appreciate that. 

25 

Mr. RACKLEFF.——that I have at my disposal. 

Senator TESTER. I got it. And as far as the Senator from South 

Dakota goes, who I have a tremendous amount of respect for, you 

are right, Congress is going to touch this budget. But if you do not 

advocate for stuff, how are we supposed to know where to put 

money? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I will say that I have always been an advocate 

for those who are underserved, and I will continue to be. 

Senator TESTER. I got it. But I am talking about from a funding 

standpoint and from a budgetary line-item standpoint. If you do 

not tell us that the CDBG Program is important or the HOME Program is important, how do we know where to put the money? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I will provide good data on all of those programs 

if I am confirmed. I look forward to the opportunity to work—— 

Senator TESTER. I appreciate that. So I anticipate what you are 

saying is that, if you are confirmed, you will put recommendations 

forward to us on what line items need to be plussed up to be able 

to have more affordable housing in this country? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I will certainly work with Secretary Carson and 

the Administration, and within that context, I will be an advocate 

for those—— 

Senator TESTER. And so if he says, ‘‘No, we are sticking with this 

budget; we are not going to increase any of them,’’ do you intend 

to push back on that? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Ultimately, I think it is critically important that 

our country moves toward fiscal responsibility and balancing the 

budget, and I think that there are macroeconomic concerns that are 

important. If we do not have a strong middle class, if we are not 

strong fiscally, we are not going to be able to help anybody. 

Senator TESTER. OK. I agree with you. So let me give you an example of a town of about 8,000 people that I was at earlier this 

year that said, ‘‘We cannot get any new businesses to come to our 

town because we have no place for the employees to live because 

we have no affordable housing.’’ What do you suggest we do with 

that, with all these programs being eliminated? What do you suggest that I go and tell the city council of that town from a Federal 

level here is where you need to go to be able to address your needs 

of affordable housing? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Well, I can tell you that I have worked in economic development not just in affordable housing—— 

Senator TESTER. I got it. You got a town in Montana. This is not 

an Indian reservation. It is 8,000 people. They cannot recruit any 

businesses because they have got no place for employees to live. Do 

I just say, ‘‘Go get some low-income tax credits’’? Or do I say, ‘‘Get 

a hold of HUD and there are these programs that you will utilize’’ 

if we do not plus those programs up? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I will tell you that I have worked in small towns 

doing affordable housing exactly in the scenario that you have outlined. 

Senator TESTER. Yep. 

Mr. RACKLEFF. And what you would use as the primary vehicle 

for over 90 percent of the equity you need would be the tax credit 

program. 

Senator TESTER. I see—which you have no say over whatsoever. 

26 

Mr. RACKLEFF. That is correct. 

Senator TESTER. OK. So what is the purpose of HUD? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. The purpose of HUD—— 

Senator TESTER. What is the purpose of me confirming you in 

this position if you do not have any programs to help with affordable housing when your position is the Secretary of Community 

Planning and Development? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Even though there are fiscal challenges that we 

are grappling with, there are still literally billions of dollars of 

Community Development Block Grant funds that are out—that 

have been granted to cities across the country, and there is a 

spending pipeline that takes quite a while to work through. So 

there is still a great deal of work to do no matter what happens 

to the Community Development Block Grant budget or HOME 

budget. 

Senator TESTER. I got it. 

Mr. RACKLEFF. And I will be a wise steward of whatever resources—— 

Senator TESTER. And I have no doubt that you will be a wise 

steward of the resources that are there. But if there are no resources there, you do not have much stewardship to do. And I 

would tell you that as we move forward on this budget—and it is 

a common theme, and somebody has coached you well, and probably everybody else on this Committee—I hope not you, Mr. Campbell—to say, ‘‘This is a budget that I support, and this is the way 

it is going to be, and this is how we are going to move forward.’’ 

I agree with you, we need to get the debt under control. But I am 

going to tell you, if we have a substandard economy in this country—and you have that in rural America right now, especially with 

this budget—we need people fighting for us so that the Administration is going to come in and give us the honest to God truth that, 

‘‘Hey, you know what? This zeroes out CDBG.’’ But CDBG is important. Would you guys plus it up? That is all I am asking for. 

You have had some experience; otherwise, you would not be here. 

You need to utilize that experience. I do not need to lecture to you, 

and I do need to see you this afternoon, Mr. Campbell. Thank you 

all very much. 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Look forward to seeing you, Senator. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you. 

Senator Schatz. 

Senator SCHATZ. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you to all of 

the nominees and their families. Congratulations. 

I want to follow up, Mr. Rackleff. You have done a number of 

deals in Houston. 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Yes, sir. 

Senator SCHATZ. And I am wondering if you can just take me 

through the capital stack of a typical project that you have been 

involved in. You say it is about usually 90 percent LIHTC and then 

10 percent CDBG and other subsidies? Could you just walk me 

through it? If I am getting that wrong, that is fine. Just let me 

know what a typical deal would be like. 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Sure. Of the Federal funding involved, over 90 

percent would typically be Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. If you 

had, let us say, a 200-unit apartment complex that cost $20 million 

27 

to develop, probably 70 percent of the financial resources would 

come from the sale of Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and the equity that is derived from that. 

The Federal sources of funding that we are responsible for often become gap fillers, so some projects need $1 to $2 million of soft 

money from another source, and then there also is conventional 

debt, which is secured in the private markets. 

Senator SCHATZ. But that money that fills the gap is disproportionately important. Is that accurate? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. It can be. It really depends on—— 

Senator SCHATZ. In other words, it is the difference maker; otherwise, it would not be—— 

Mr. RACKLEFF. There is no question that it is important. 

Senator SCHATZ. OK. So let us just talk about LIHTC for a moment. I understand it is not under HUD. But the challenge with 

LIHTC in the context of tax reform, as people are anticipating 

lower corporate tax rates and the value of the LIHTC is going 

down, just anticipating tax reform. So I am wondering how you 

view LIHTC’s value in the context of trying to get projects done if 

we lower the corporate tax rate. It seems to me that the thing that 

you are saying comprises most of the pot sweetener may be less 

sweet if we do tax reform in the way that it is being contemplated. 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Well, I can tell you that it is not clear to me what 

tax reform is being contemplated at this point. But, certainly, the 

markets like predictability, and the fact that there is some discussion of tax reform has caused tax credit equity prices to drop some. 

From a tax policy perspective, I would think we do not want the 

tail wagging the dog, though, and one program ought not to dictate 

an entire Nation’s tax policy. 

I will say that as we—— 

Senator SCHATZ. Right, but if we are committed to LIHTC as a 

matter of policy, if we are in the process of reducing corporate rates 

and that changes the incentivization of projects, we may end up 

wanting to increase the LIHTC value. And that is not your call—— 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Yes, yes. 

Senator SCHATZ.——it is our call for sure. 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Yes, that is true. But it also depends on how depreciation is considered, and there are other economic factors that 

go into the pricing of tax credits. 

Senator SCHATZ. Sure. And I guess the point, following up on the 

Senators from Montana and Massachusetts, you are duty-bound to 

support the President’s budget, and I do not want to get into it 

with you about that. But it is just very clear to me that your whole 

private sector existence, your mission—and your reputation is 

strong in this space—demonstrates the value of not just LIHTC but 

all of the HUD programs. And so you would be in a very difficult 

position to trash the President’s budget at a nomination hearing. 

I will not ask you to do that. 

I do think it is really important that in the interactions both at 

the HUD level and with OMB that you make clear the devastating 

impact that some of these proposals will have. I do not want you 

to comment on it because I do not want to get you on the record 

declining to advocate for this, because I think this is critically important. 

28 

Last question, Housing First. I talked to Secretary Carson about 

this. I believe very strongly in Housing First. It has worked in lots 

of cities and States. There is now bipartisan consensus. What we 

have in Hawaii is extraordinarily challenging. We have the unfortunate distinction of one of the highest increases in terms of our 

homeless population and some really unique challenges being the 

most isolated populated place on the planet. 

Can I get your commitment to help to implement Housing First 

policies wherever you have a partner in a city or a State or a county? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Absolutely. I am very committed to Housing First 

as the most effective way to assist those who are struggling with 

homelessness. That is the way that we have cracked the code nationally and locally to figure out how to really help those who are 

chronically homeless. 

I will say also, though, too, that there has been a lot of discussion recently about the importance of transitional housing as well, 

housing that focuses on the needs of women who are victims of 

domestic violence, individuals with substance abuse. And I can tell 

you we funded some of those programs and projects when I was in 

Houston, and it was a really beautiful thing to see. We had an organization called the ‘‘Men’s Center,’’ which was compromised of 

men who all were recovering alcoholics, who were the board of directors, and who worked together to help each other. And I really 

felt as I stood before those good people that we were standing on 

sacred ground. 

I will absolutely work with you to help implement Housing First 

in your State, and, you know, I spent a little bit of time in college 

there, so I have a special place in my heart for that part of the—— 

Senator SCHATZ. I will look forward to sending you a demand letter. 

[Laughter.] 

Senator SCHATZ. Thank you. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you, Senator Schatz. 

Senator Cotton. 

Senator COTTON. Thank you, and congratulations to all of you on 

your nominations, and thank you for your willingness to serve our 

country. 

Mr. Campbell, I want to speak about stress tests under the 

Dodd-Frank Act. 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Yes. 

Senator COTTON. Stress tests are required of banks with more 

than $10 billion in consolidated assets. Those banks then have to 

provide annual reports. That does not seem like a lot in the grand 

scheme of banking. In Arkansas, that is a pretty big bank, though. 

We have three banks—the Bank of the Ozarks, Arvest, and Centennial—that fall into that range. We have one, Simmons National, 

which is just underneath it. Maybe they will pass the $10 billion 

mark soon. Maybe they will pump the brakes, as many banks have, 

specifically to avoid these kind of regulatory burdens. But do you 

believe that any of those four banks or any bank that size, you 

know, banks, say, in the $10 to $20 billion range pose some kind 

of systemic risk to our financial system? 

29 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Senator, when addressing this issue, I think it is 

important to suggest that size is not everything in these areas. I 

think it is more of the activity that the institutions are involved in. 

And as you know, recently in a Treasury report, the Secretary suggested some modifications to the financial regulations in this area 

to make sure that the access to capital from small- and mediumsized banks is more readily available to your farmers and to businesses that need access to capital. 

If confirmed, I look forward to working closely with you and 

Members of the Committee to right-size and tailor those regulations in a way that will allow for greater access to capital for smalland medium-sized institutions. 

Senator COTTON. I think that is an important point. You know, 

a bank could be much larger than any of those banks. It could be 

tens of billions of dollars and engage in very ordinary, traditional, 

plain-vanilla-style banking without posing serious systemic risk. 

By contrast, a financial institution could actually be smaller than 

that, and because of the complexity of its transactions, its 

interlocking counterparties, its esoteric finances, it could actually 

pose greater risk. 

I personally do not think that requiring stress tests and annual 

reporting for banks of that size in Arkansas and all across the 

country is going to do much to make the financial market—I am 

sorry, the financial sector all that much more stable. 

Could you give us a brief account for what you think are the costbenefit analysis of imposing that kind of regulation on banks of 

that size? What are customers losing out on when you have people 

at banks like Bank of the Ozarks or Centennial or Arvest engaged 

in these fairly onerous annual regulatory compliances as opposed 

to doing banking work? 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Certainly, there is an opportunity cost. You 

know, every dollar a bank spends to—a cost of compliance is one 

less dollar that they can give to the consumer and to allow for access to the capital markets. And so, again, I think we should rightsize—if we are looking at financial regulations, we should right-size 

and tailor them to the activities. And as you noted, it is not—it 

really genuinely is not the actual size of the bank, but it is more 

what the bank is doing that we should be looking into. Again, I 

look forward to working with you. I know that you have done a lot 

of research on this. And, of course, as is usually the case, a strong 

analysis of the cost to the consumer needs to be done before any 

regulations are promulgated. 

Senator COTTON. Thank you for that, because in the end what we 

are talking about here are customers of banks, you know, consumers, businesses, and so forth. So if you are a farmer trying to 

get a loan for your seed, or you are a young married couple with 

a child on the way that wants to get into a home for the first time, 

or you are a small business that wants to expand a factory or 

maybe you want to create a factory where you are going to employ 

Arkansans, what you want are those banks competing for your 

business. And trust me, they compete a lot, even if they have an 

aligned interest when it comes to not complying—or not having to 

comply with so many onerous and needless regulations. And that 

is where I think our focus should be. 

30 

In the time I have remaining, I want to turn, Mr. Compton, to 

you and specifically ask you about the Affirmatively Furthering 

Fair Housing policy of the last Department of Housing and Urban 

Development. Along with about 20 of my colleagues, we sent a letter to Secretary Carson last week asking him to reverse this policy, 

which I think is gross social engineering, trying to impose nationwide zoning standards on communities with very little, if any, evidence of discriminatory intent or even discriminatory impact. 

Could you give us your thoughts on the Affirmatively Furthering 

Fair Housing policy? 

Mr. COMPTON. Yes, Senator, I am glad to do that. Affirmatively 

Furthering Fair Housing comes out of two fairly vague and general 

statements in the Fair Housing Act that direct the Department to 

essentially follow the spirit of the law, and from that the prior Administration’s Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing rule, while 

the rule itself is not very long, certainly the promulgating releases 

have a great deal of complexity. And I think one of the challenges 

that we see in the rule looking at it on its face is that everyone 

could pass or everyone could fail. And so I think that is—in terms 

of given that that is a regulation that is on the books today and 

that the Department is charged with implementing it, this initial 

implementation of it is really key to ferreting out whether it is viable. 

Senator COTTON. Well, thank you. My time has expired. I just 

want to say that I, like you, like Secretary Carson, oppose discrimination in all forms and want to make sure that that is not happening. But at the same time, we should not be using vague and 

general housing laws to impose a social engineer’s vision of what 

communities should look like from Washington, DC. That is why 

we have State and especially local governments. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you. 

Senator Cortez Masto. 

Senator CORTEZ MASTO. Thank you, and thank you to the nominees for your willingness to serve. Welcome. Welcome to your family members. And thank you also for meeting with me. I know 

some I have had the opportunity to meet with. Some of you have 

met with my staff. I really appreciate that opportunity. And then 

for the two of you that I have already talked with on Commerce, 

I am not going to direct my questions to you because I have already 

had the opportunity. 

Let me start with Mr. Rackleff. Mr. Rackleff, on July 5th I sent 

a letter, along with 28 of my colleagues, requesting information 

about LGBTQ nondiscrimination guidance that apparently had 

been pulled down from HUD’s website. This guidance was arrived 

at in consultation with direct service providers and is meant to 

help grantees comply with the law. 

When Secretary Carson had been asked about this during House 

and Senate Budget hearings, he said that the Department, and I 

quote, ‘‘was looking at it and determining whether it was effective.’’ 

As head of Community Planning and Development, you will be 

entrusted with ensuring that the CDBG, the HOME Program, and 

homelessness service providers obey their nondiscrimination obligations under the law. If confirmed, will you commit to promptly restoring the resources to HUD’s website? 

31 

Mr. RACKLEFF. I am not familiar with the details of that situation, and so, if confirmed, I can commit to you that I will look into 

it and do what I think is right. 

Senator CORTEZ MASTO. And can you commit to a timeline within 

which you will take a look at that and get an answer back to us? 

Mr. RACKLEFF. Yes, ma’am. I would look at that within 2 weeks. 

Senator Cortez Masto. Thank you very much. I appreciate that. 

And then, Ms. Farias, if confirmed, you will be the Fair Housing 

Chief at HUD. Do you commit to bringing cases enforcing against 

LGBTQ discrimination if the evidence demonstrates that there has 

been a violation of HUD’s equal access rules? 

Ms. FARIAS. Yes, I do. 

Senator Cortez Masto. Thank you. And then, also, HUD conducted the first ever study of discrimination faced by LGBTQ people in the rental market. Will you commit also to continuing this 

research during your tenure, if confirmed? 

Ms. FARIAS. Yes, I do. 

Senator CORTEZ MASTO. Thank you very much. I appreciate that. 

And then let me just follow up with the conversation you had 

with my colleague, Senator Schatz. I, too, think the Housing First 

model is very appropriate, so I appreciate your comments and continuing to support it and work through those issues. So thank you 

very much. 

Mr. Campbell, I have a few questions for you as well. 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Yes. 

Senator CORTEZ MASTO. When the Treasury Department released its report seeking to identify ways to roll back financial protections, Secretary Mnuchin noted that about 80 percent of the report’s recommendations could be implemented administratively, 

without Congress. This came as troubling news to some of us who 

think a much more nuanced approach narrowly addressing community financial institutions and balancing the need for consumer protection is more appropriate. 

As a long-time staffer of the legislative branch, you have made 

it clear that you respect the rollback of Congress in exercising its 

will and providing an important counter-weight to the executive 

branch. If confirmed, will you commit to working with Congress in 

a bipartisan manner when it comes to financial rules rather than 

pushing through 80 percent of its report’s recommendations without input from Congress as proposed? 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Senator, I know from my 17 years working up 

here in this body, the most lasting change that could be made is 

a bipartisan change through the Senate and through the Congress. 

I am aware of some quiet conversations that are bipartisan to try 

to find a path forward, a bipartisan path forward to readdressing 

some regulations that we could perhaps find consensus on. 

If confirmed, I look forward to working with you and Members 

of the Committee that are interested, and their staffs, to helping 

facilitate those conversations and trying to find a bipartisan legislative path forward to right-size and tailor where appropriate regulations related to financial markets and financial institutions. 

Senator CORTEZ MASTO. I appreciate that. And then the report 

also, to my chagrin, included no mentions of ways to bolster consumer and investor protection, though it has dozens of proposals 

32 

for ways to weaken rules for some of the largest banks. And I understand that future reports from the Treasury are forthcoming, 

and you would be in a position to work on such reports in your new 

rule. 

If confirmed, will you work with Congress to incorporate recommendations related to needed consumer and investor protections 

in subsequent Treasury reports? 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Senator, I think, if confirmed, there is no more 

important job that I would have than the protection of consumers. 

And, absolutely, you have my firm commitment that I will work 

with you, Members of this Committee, and off this Committee to 

better understand your priorities and, where possible, fold those 

priorities into the reports that are forthcoming. 

Senator CORTEZ MASTO. Thank you. And I notice my time is almost up. Let me just say thank you all again, incredible resumes, 

incredible backgrounds. And your willingness to serve, I so appreciate it. Also, please excuse me for bouncing back and forth. I have 

an Energy Committee going on at the same time. But thank you 

again, and thank you to your family members for being here as 

well. 

Ms. FARIAS. Thank you, Senator. 

Mr. CAMPBELL. Thank you. 

Mr. COMPTON. Thank you. 

Chairman CRAPO. Thank you very much, and that concludes the 

questioning for the hearing. We have a number of letters in support of various candidates, and I ask unanimous consent to include 

those letters in the record. Hearing no objection, that is ordered. 

Chairman CRAPO. I again want to thank each of you for coming 

and participating today in the hearing, and I thank you for your 

service and your willingness to assist our country. 

For Senators, all follow-on questions need to be submitted by the 

close of business on this Thursday, July 20th. And for our witnesses, the responses to those questions should be turned in by 

Monday morning if you can. So please respond quickly. 

With that, the hearing is adjourned. 

Senator BROWN. Thank you, everybody. 

Chairman CRAPO. Senator Brown and I have to run to another 

hearing together. 

[Whereupon, at 11:35 a.m., the hearing was adjourned.] 

[Prepared statements, biographical sketches of nominees, responses to written questions, and additional material supplied for 

the record follow:] 

33 

PREPARED STATEMENT OF SENATOR RICHARD C. SHELBY 

Mr. Chairman, I believe we have a distinguished group here from Mr. Compton 

to Mr. Campbell. Everybody is ready to go to work. The Administration needs these 

people. I call this a sterling group. I would like to say a few words about Mr. Compton. He is well-known in my State in the area of housing. As he said in his opening 

statement, he has been involved in development of low-income housing and community development. He knows this industry and the related case law. We are proud 

that he is taking a job at HUD, and I am also proud of all of the nominees for accepting the responsibility of Federal service. I look forward to supporting all of you. 

I would ask—I have a number of questions, but I would submit those for the record 

and I would like for my opening statement to be made a part of the record. Mr. 

Chairman, I hope you and Senator Brown can expedite these nominees as soon as 

possible. 

PREPARED STATEMENT OF PAUL COMPTON 

TO BE GENERAL COUNSEL, DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

JULY 18, 2017 

Thank you, Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member Brown, and this entire Committee 

for the opportunity to testify before you today. I am honored to have been nominated by the President and, if confirmed, to have the privilege to work with and 

for Secretary Carson. 

I want to begin by introducing my wife of almost 30 years, Dana, and our three 

children: Catherine, Jerome, and Anne. I also would like to introduce my son in law, 

Cameron Pulsifer, who is making his first visit to our Nation’s capital. 

Mr. Chairman, when I was in law school at the University of Virginia I had the 

distinct honor of visiting with Justice Lewis Powell, who had just retired from the 

Supreme Court and was spending a semester at the law school. When I asked him 

where I should practice the law, his response was: ‘‘Go somewhere you can make 

a difference.’’ 

I followed that advice. I returned to my native Alabama, where I have practiced 

law with the same firm, Bradley Arant, for 28 years. Back in the early years, as 

a young attorney, I was initially attracted to the banking area of legal practice. Increasingly, however, I found myself focusing on housing issues. It proved to be a 

natural fit. I realized I could make a profound difference by using the law to help 

create shelter and security for vulnerable people while builders and investors reinforced the local economy. So I became more involved in affordable housing—and 

jumped at the chance when asked to find a way for a local bank to be an equity 

partner in a planned apartment building to house low-income residents in Tuscaloosa—a novel question at the time. I succeeded—with results that were gratifying—and my career took on a new emphasis. 

Over the next several years, I represented that bank in 70 transactions as it grew 

to become a regional institution, creating more than 5,000 units of affordable housing throughout the southeast United States. Since then, I’ve worked on hundreds 

of affordable housing transactions, with other investors, developers, lenders, and 

public housing authorities in public-private partnerships that benefited low-income 

housing residents. I’ve often noted that the complexity of transactions goes up exponentially with the number of parties and programs involved. And some of these 

transactions were indeed enormously complicated, but we almost always found a 

way to succeed. I encouraged clients to think of themselves as repeat players, to 

focus on their long-term reputation, and to look for win-win solutions. I think because of that approach, I was tapped to serve as the outside General Counsel to the 

Alabama Affordable Housing Association. 

Which brings me to the present day and my nomination to serve as HUD’s next 

General Counsel. As I look back on Justice Powell’s advice to me all those years 

ago, I can’t help but think I’m still heeding his words to this very day. HUD is a 

place where I can make a difference for our fellow citizens. If confirmed, I will strive 

each day of my tenure to ensure that the Department and its 8,000 dedicated employees operate in a legal and ethical manner. I will work to apply the law thoughtfully, vigorously and as Congress intended. And I pledge to work with all the Members of this Committee to find solutions to our Nation’s housing challenges, and to 

eliminate barriers to affordable housing. 

Mr. Chairman, I’m grateful to this Committee for holding this hearing on my 

nomination, and what I hope are my two future HUD colleagues. I look forward to 

addressing your questions. 

34 


71817001.eps

STATEMENT FOR COMPLETION BY PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEES 

Name: CollploD, Jr. 

(LoiC) 

Podtlotl tt Dick IIGIIIiuled: c-.J COUDtd, Dtptnmat tfHousiag Mid Urbaa Develo,.at 

Dltc of Mllilltioll: 

Dattorwn.: II Afril 19'3 

(!lot) (lolao*) (Yo.) 

Maritll Stalls: Mllricd FuU ut11t of spoase: Dw Jue Rada Com plot 

Name ud eps .r dllldlta: Cder!Miue c...,t. Puw, 24; 1en1ae P11l C4alpcea m, n; 

Ulatila: 

a-n 

ud awudt: 

imlitulioa 

u.lnnily ft'Vqlola 

SdMol ot!Anr 

UllftomiiJ ol AIUula 

X.....Scbotlot 

r.c..JQIMr.lllcal 

Sdelee 

Marioo Miliary IDidllll 

o.es· Deps 

llllalded received 

Aqull"' 1D. 

toMaytm 

Aqut19tl u.. 

loMayi.MS ---· 

s.,Bblrl* NIA 

IODionaberUM 

Alpo!Uit IIIPScllool 

IDMIJHII Dtpllaa 

Aulil Clp Award for Molt Oa111UdJD& Shtdaat Ia lbe . 

eou.porc-eraad Builleet AdaUalatntlo., Ualvtnlty ofAllllama, 1985 

Bda c-Slpla, 19M 

Ja-, Sealer Mea'• Boaor Sodety,1914 

Mortar Bterd, 1914 

DMesof 

~ 

Maylm 

Mayltts 

NIA 

May HI! 
35 


71817002.eps

o.ua. Della Klpfe, 1914 

OtaaJadlq EcoaNIIa SCudat, u~ or Alabama, 1984 

Natloul Merit Seholar, 1981 

Uaiva'111y ot Alaballa PraWatlal Sebolanlalp Redpleat, 1981 

U.Willa..Nn~ 

lllllkil& ol ..._, *-2&16 (Bud I) 

lllllkil& .. ~ MaiDir --2016 (BIDcll) 

Lilted Ill Tilt lat Uwym bl Alllftbe 

"Lawyer tflhe Year,• BlrmJa&bua, Fhlaadal Scnica Replatloa1Aw,2017 

BaaJdD& aad l'llwldiiiiAw, 2016-2017 

Corporate Law, 2008-2017 

DertndYw IIIICI htanr Law, 2011·ltl7 

Fhlaadal StniceJ Replalloa Law, ltll-ltl7 

.,_1Aw,ltl7·20l7 

~Mubls1Aw,ltl7 lt17 

Marlildalt-Habbell AV rr-!Dtat Rated 

List below all membenblps and ollices held in pcokssional, flllemll, bllsines1, xbollrly, 

civic, dilrilable llld oCbtl ozpoiations. 

OrpaizlliaD Olllct lldll (If IIY) Dllel 

lln6erlfyMMilllla ...,... .r Dlndon; 8oereWy lt17 ...... 

T\onaaDSdlolall~ Boenl o(Diredors ltlStodall 

IDdepeaQII Prt~bfleriu Chan:b 1\feaber, ro .. er ...,.bet or 

Seuloo (&mrDIDc body) aDd 

Clllltl s.loa lHOit .. lt 

........ A&ra ... U...C.w.dadn .-~c..- ....... Aw...c-n.-e ~of.,_. 2t01tedat 

A-wn 

Mart.. MliiWy llllilale Mt~~berofBoenhfDinclon '"'to 1998 

Alula! A-*'llot 

Alabtaa Slate Bat Mal bet l!mlodalt 

S.I&BuoCGeorcla llf•ber lOOUoate 

-.. 
36 


71817003.eps

~Bar Allodldoa, MaDber, A111u1 Slate CUii'IIU 2t80 1919 co obll 

.... law Seclloe, IIMilc 

law CMmillee; .. ,_ .. 

Alftnllhle ....... 

C.maalty Dm1opBnt (froa 1"'1 

~Bar A.aatioa Mlmber 1919tolllfl 

M1llilllppl "--ltiGo If Meaber lee9toobfl 

AlloNable Boolllc Pl'Miden 

~ Alfon!Uic B'oalilc CoiJitiMI MAUer ....... Tbe c-by Clllllof J1in1i1c1ou1 ..... 19931tdlle 

The C1U, be., Blrmb!Jblm, AL Member 

TbefalcniAs.decy, ..... em.t 

.......... AL 

Mw..AIIIIImt Rt\lobllcu alb, Membw C. mat 

Bll1llqloaa, AL 

Tbe Vupa OM liNe. Yort, ...... c.m.t 

ll,..._,atTbeYaleCIIIII 

orNe. Ym 011 

Tbe A1ai1 dot Tecq..tlle S.CW, Mlaber 2GIIto4Mt 

ottlle u .. w.,otc.tniAIUIIDI 

ne~M-otArt Melaloor 1811 todlle 

IIMIIIAriiiCmrt ..... l8Utotlota 

n. St. Alldnw't s.elet7., ........ c.m.t 

doe MloWJe 8oada 

EapiGJwat ~ List bdowlll posilioas beld Iince c:ollep, iocladinc the Iitle or delcripticlll of job, ume 

of cmploymeat, kaioo ofwut,llld u.ive cbtr:s oC ~ 

Parlier, Bradley Arut ilt4lll Cu-iql LLP, Blrmmpam, Alabama (formerly bown u Brac1Je7, Anat, Rote A~ W}, PlriMr 1996 to daft (AIIOdate, May 1989-1995) 

Sllanlu! S1a1aco New Yort,New YO!il,su-r Alloclate,J-It A!lpSI1MS 

Bradley, Araot, Rote II Wbllc, Blrminpaa, Alabama, Sa~~~~~er Alloclate, Jaly to Augut 1987 

JacbN, Wilker, WluMd, Cutwell A Miler (1"' bin u Jldooe Walker), DIIIM, Ts.-AIMdalt, May .. hDe 198'1 
37 


71817004.eps

McMillaa for Govll'llor 1 Binllap ... Alabama, Aclmbllstntive Aalalut, 

July 1985 to J11De 1~ 

Gtfll'1llllellt 

aptrience: List any experieuce in or dbtct IB!Ociation with Federal, Stale, or local govenweull, 

Including any lllvboty, roJISII!tltive, holl01'8l'Y or other pert time xrvice or positions. • 

Ouulde Couasel, Jelfenoa C4aly (Alabama~ Olllee or CouliDity IJid Eeoaollic Dmlopmeat, 

Reladlg to HOME Pngram lmdlag, 2014-dalt 

Member, Alabalaa ColiSIUiltr Credit Tuk Farce, elUted by .the Goveraor or Allbama, 2016-2017 

Oatllde Couuel, Alabtma State Blllldag Departmtllt, . . 

relatlag ta terta~a iitigatioa lavolviDg a former beak omcer lD which ASBD bad aa lDtereat, 

2tl3 to September2016 

laltlD, Ofllee ofUalted Statea Seaator Hewel Hdlla, May aad Jaae 1982 

latera, Ofllce efUalted Statea Repraeatatlve Wlllilm L. Diddmoa, July and August 1982 

Pablilhed 

Writiags: List the titles, pllblisbm and dates of books, articles, reports or other published materials 

you bave wrilttll. 

Semlaar Materials and Speaker, Alabama <Am11111er li'lllance A#>dadon Anllual Meeting. 

"Disparate uipect Llab<y ill Lendilg TrU.acttons-Wben Are We Now" (2015) 

Semillar Mataills aad Speaker, Alabama State Blllldag Departmeat Eumlnen Cafereace, 

"Baak Gmnlaact" (2014) 

Semlaar Materials aad Speaker, Teueaaee Aslodation or Ho~Dilg and Redevelopmeat Au~rltla, 

"Publle HOUiiDg Autllorltles aad Low-Iacome Houslllc Tu Credlu: PattiDg tbe Purde Together" 

(2014) 

SemJur Materials aad Speaker, Alabama Baakm Association Aunual Semioar, 

"FDIC~ Trllllldiotll" (2010) 

Saliaar Materiallnd Speaker, Alabama Bar Jutitute Allnaal Baaldag Law Seminar, 

"Raii!Dg Capital" (2tll) 

Seelur Mataills aad Speaker, Alabama Conmner lllaaaee A#>dadoa Anual Meedag, 

"Risk·Bued Pridag Notleea" (2010) . 

· Seailaar Materials aad Speake~', Alabama Bar laatltute Aaaual Baakblg Law Semillar, 

"C0111111allity Developmeat• (lt09) 
38 


71817005.eps

Saiur Materilll ud Speaker, AIUalll c-r Jbwlee Aslotlatloa Aaaaal Meetiag, 

"TTie Subprlaat PriDa" (1008) 

ScUar Malerllk w Speaker, Georp S4lle Ualm1ily Colllge of Law, 

"Jmnbll~hr RaJ ~~~ale: New Mandt Tu Credits" (20el) 

s.Jur Mlltrilllud Speabr, Alabama Bu Iutlllte ADDu! RaJ FAtale Coar-, 

"lAw 1-. RMIIDcTu CMIU" <*') 

s.Jur Maleriall ud Speak«, Alabau CUpter caM lutitate, 

"New Marbtl Tu Cndlb" C*') 

S.iur Malertals Ud Spe.ller, Alaba.a Bar lattitllte Auu.d Bultlq Law S.hlar, 

"Low IDCOme Houliag Tu Credit Developllleals" (2005) 

s-lur Mallis ... Speaker, AIQua Bu IIISIItate .blMIIl Bukblc Law s.IDar, 

"Prlncy lalafo11111&1 Sharll&" (2802) 

C..AI!Mr, "''1M Fiaudal Smiea Mtdenlzltila Ad-r-fer AIUalll Bub", DeA!!bwBpklr(leiO) . 

Sellllar Materilll ud Speaker, Alabuul Bubn Allodatlea lllaudll Mednlalloa 

s.llar, "GnM-IA.DBiey Princy l'neldila" (11M) 

SCIIIlDar Materials ucl s,eaklr, Otllce ornrift Suptrrilloa Nadtul Coafemce 01 

Rani A-a, "Uteoft.w '-HoouilcTu Cndlb" (1"'l 

Aak, •t.w I•-Ho'lllllc Tu CredilJ udlbe C..U.ulty Rdanrllllmt Act: 

Tilt Perfect COIIplemaai",De Alabga a.H (l"'l 

Aak, "1\e Fedenllzalloa or Seeared Ltallll(, Dt Alabama Baabr (1992) 

Ptllllcll 

AlllllatiHI 

ud aetlvltlat List mcmbenllips and oftkes bdd Ia llld services~ to all political penies or 

eleclioo CCIIIIDittca clllrq tile lilt I 0 ya~s. 

Alabama HNtC.mllillet, Seoi!Wabfor Amelia, lOIS 

Bllot ~ Attonq,Alahaa ~ Pu1y, --.. - Gcnlllediou 

Bledioll Cballlap lApl r-. Bob IUlty for Govmaor,l.G02 
39 


71817006.eps

Polltieal 

Coalributioas: Itemize aU po!iticai COD!ributions of$500 or more to lilY individuiJ, campaign 

org&lli28lion, political perty, political action committte or similar entity duriDg !he last 

eight yeas llld ideolify specific amourus, dates, and names of recipients. 

Maret Rabio • ssoO.OO -021lW16 

&Get Walker· Sl, 700.80-WlWlS 

Rebert Beatky • $1,108.00 - 08mll014 

Rebert Beattey. sseo.eo - 111l71l013 

Lutbtr Stnage • $1,010.10 -111U12t13 

Mitt RoaUieJ. $550.10 - 10/Wl01l 

Mitt Romaey • $1,200.00-Wlltll 

Speaeer Badllt • S2SUO - 1011011010; tl/07/lOll 

Speaeer illalll • szst.OO ~ 121101l009 . 

Mitt Romaey . $1,000.00 - 1211012011 

Mict Rollllle)'. S258.oo-osmneu 

BnldiC)' Anat Botll Cumlllllp W Polltkal Adlo11 CGIIIIIIiCtee • $5,180.00 alate 88111/lOll 

ia nplar, pcriocllc coalributloaa 

BARW PAC· $1,833.30 from t1.111/l0t9 to 88/llllOll 

Quallfialiou: Stile fully your qualificatioa.s to serve in the position to which you have beta named. 

(attach sheet) Seuttached Scbedule 6-A 

Fatllre employllleat . 

relatloaQ!pl: · l.lDdicale wbdher you will sever aU coooectioas with your present employer, business 

finn, assoc:illioo or orpaiz.ation if you ue coafumed by !he Senate. Ya. 

Petcatial eoa111cts 

2. AJ far as can be foreseen, stile wbelher you have any plans after completing 

govemment service to resume employmen~ affiliation or practice with your previous 

employer, business linn, associalion or organizatioll. No pbu. 

3.Has anybodymadeyouacommilmeatto ajobafteryou leave goverJUDellt? No. 

4. Do you expect to serve !he full term for which you have been appointed? Ya. 

or latemt: I. Descn'be any finlmclal anangements or defened compensation qreements or olhcr 

conlinuing dealinp ~ busi~ assoc:ialeS, clients or customm who will be 

affEcted by policies whicll you will iofluence in the positioo to 'llhieh you have beta 

nominaled. NODe. 

71817007.eps

I· 

!-' 

. ~ ~ ~ ~ !-' ~ ~fl}t

JII 

· 

•F•II,flfJifli~li~i~lllllff!~(IJ!rtflf 

_ill'tlt!llii

1

J1 _gJz. t••i• > iltilltJIJfl t.Ir·lr~~tli:"l~ illlfftt~~ilt J-ri, JJlSI,JJ. li!.!ti!l ~~ 

!J

rf~J'rJ!!.; 

ll•l~ 

~~ii~f 

i& =a ~.~~~-

~~~[7 

[~l~r 

J• ~ · lg·ltrJfi rif i ill 

a• - JtHIJii .il tn. J fit . 

rl }Jitf j~ lltlfiliiJJi JtfE!jJ i~~~~lJ ~ ~-~r i 

f~rtr!~ir ~ 1 ~ flit a ~ !i ~'i!i.g r go! · =-~rl [lrr li'EfSI, 111'1 nh~ V'DJJ1J ,S 1 ::' i: II l iil~rt iilt f .r.; lf. }lift J!li: l - · rl :t 
41 


71817008.eps

d. Bill HallbCan Semt.., 1J1c. 

t. PutLue Ceulntdloa, u.c 

f. Qlucy Pak Dmlo,_t Corporalile 

C. D.A.SJL Ftr LtGfllll', 1K. 

l Dmlopmeat Servleel, flit. 

L Commalty Actloa Pa1'11enlllp of North ~bma,lllc. 

J. Volat«n of Aaeriea Soutbtut, be. 

t. AleiWa H-, !Jic. 

L BRIC Dmlop.eat, LLCJSPM, 1K. (allo RUD lumd 

......... 'I:PAa) 

m. laC lAb c.au.ntty Dmlo,_eat, IDe. (lllo BUD IDiared 

.npplewudTPM) 

a. The !lalldt Group, LLC/Beaaett It Compa~~y, LLC 

o. Bendt Gro1p C0111aJtia&, LLC/Vu Dyke & Compa~~y, U.C 

p. Hal HOIIiac mat.e.ts, be. . 

q. Alablla Coodlea Hai!ID RUiillls,IK. 

r. Orpaized C..nlty Adlel Pl9pl8, be. 

s. Youa w-Clrilda AModadoa ot11in111Pam t. Rolllia& IJmston, !Jic. 

11. Hawkeyt, IDe./ Morrow ll,ealty Cotap~~y,bc. . 

a. NonUI' Dndl,-t USA, L.P. - repreuallltloa In ct~~aedloo wllb u 

opillolto BUD relatl.a to capillll fuds froat MIRlplery Boualac 

Alfllriy for a project 

4. List rtJ'f 1obbyina ICiivity m.g the pest len yean in wllicb )ll'ol bm qlpd iD for the 

pgpose of cllmly or indftctly inftumcina the passage, defeat or modification of 

any leplllion It lbe national level of sovemment or affecting the administration ami 

execatiOD ol Dllionallaw or public policy. NODe. 

s. lllplaiD bow )'OQ willleiOhot rtrf caallict of ialeresl dlat may be disdoled by your 

respcli*S to tbe i1tms above. I piiD to - ..,.. from ~~ illiiJ 

mattar Ia whiG my recm1 would bt nqllred oder •Y EWa Au-eat 

approYed by die Olllce of GoYer..-1 Edlla or otbrwlse rtqalred 1Uider tile 

l'llla of pra(taloul eoadlct otkmrlse applicable to me u a lawyer. 

I. Oiw tbe full derails of any civil or minal proceeding in which you wm a defendant 

or any iuqully or investiplioo by a Federal, Stale, or loci! agaiy in which you Mre 

the Sliljec:l oltbe inquiry or invesbplion. 

I. lmlllpdol by file Federal Depollt llaruce Corptradella 

~ wilb file r.aire of Clplta&atll Buk-DO flrfller lldloL 

!btl(•) of~ Octtber 27,ltll (depodtiol). I pmloti!IJ acted 
42 


71817009.eps

II COUld le ~&a_, ucl Clpil6alkllakla 

ctlllledloo willa 1M IICqlilltloo of Mootlcdlt Buahua aad 

MoDilcello Buk Ia 2007. Sllbleqlleotly, In *'• CaptuiSouda Buk 

filled ucl-pilleed iD JDIC nainnkip. '1\t JDIC, nlda saiJtted 

loa ia eoJIIIedioe willa die r.llare, p"IJI"d a aattrilllotl review ud 

-aapd In MIDnt11ptioD tf ptta~tlally rapoulble parties. Alter -.y 

dqlelitioa ucl ,....p CGmi{)OIIdcact, .. fwtMr adlta-tWe 

by 1M FDIC willa retptet to •e, BJ'Idk)r Arut, or lD)' ~er penoo 

afllllaled wltll tile failed balk or lbt aeqalrtd 1luk. 

l. ~r-Nole pi"'OCCI(8. Dtcdabcr 1985, Blrmlapus, Alabe111. 

Arrelled for pablie illoxlcalioa ucl nf'llul to obey lD on:ktf by 11 olf. 

d.,~ (Aiabam) Clt1 Polce ollker woJtiq at die kef a 

lta&e- AI trW Iller M1riac .......,., file dlarpt'"" 1101 pl'OIMd 

(cllBIIIsecl by tile illdc•). 

3. ~-~ Odober1916,~ VIJtjlil. 

Cilecl for opcellchole befcnp Ia pabllc. At alleartaa before tile 

~ Dlllrict Covt, I ucl otllen were UC~aitUd wU. tiM ofllcm 

~ Mt prtdlee UJ l'ridcact It eemboralt dM aJie&ed utm tfdM 

bmraget. 

l OiYe the 1Wl dellill of ay Jiro<:eeding. inquiry or investiption by eny professicol 

ISIOCialioo including eny ber ~om ill wbich you ~ lbc IUbjeet oflbc 

pro=ia& inquiry C¥ ~ Moae · 
43 


71817010.eps

sa!EDULE 6-A 

QUALIFfCATIONS 

• Partner in the law fum B!ldley Arant Boult Cumming! LLP, Binningbam, Alabama, Januuy 1996 to 

date (Associate, May 1989 ·1995). Chairman, Finance Committee. The fum has over SOO 1awyen 

(1811ked 196 oo the National Law Journal list of list of law firms based oo size), with offices in nine 

cities. 

• Paul pradices primarily in the areas of multifamily affordable housing finance, tax credit transactions, 

bank Rgll)ation and commercial finance. Through his paaice he bas bad, from time to time, extensive : 

experience with bank acquisitions, COIIUDtlcial mortgage securitization, consumer filllnce (JIOn• 

mortglge and mortgage), iDslnnce company~ agency Rgll)ation and public and pri'llle issuance of 

sec:urities (particularly with regatd to financial iDstitutiOIIS). Paul's legal expertise is in the areas of 

federal and stlle·bimking !egUialioo. including C8pi1aJ ~ and receivership; partnmhip tax 

issues, especially the use and allOCIIioo of low inoome housing tax credits, new IDIIkds tax credils l!ld 

historic rebabilitation tax credits; coiDIIICIQal real estate landing, especially multifamily real estate, 

including fiDaacing through government spoosmd enterprises; mergers and uquisitioos of banks; ani! 

COIIllllei'CialiMld rt&dential mortglge securitization and servicing, He is a member of the Alabama and 

Georgia bars. 

• Since 2014, Paul has semd as the cb&innan of the Filllll1le Committee of Bradley Arant Boult 

Cummings U.P. In such position, be is respomible for ooordinating budget preperation, billing Illes, 

fiDandaJ and accoanting policies and banking relatloDShips. From May 2008 to April2012, Paul semd 

oo the seven member managing board of Br!dley Arm BoUJt Cumminp W, by election of the 

p8l1lm of the finn. He abo beaded the 5dcctioo committee for a new chief operating officer of the finn 

al¥1 a realignment of responsibilities al¥1 reporting channels for non-lawyer sllff. 

Outside ccunsel, Alabama Baoken Associllion, Inc. (ABA) with respect to mezger of Coounllllity 

Baakers Association of Alibama (CBAA) with Alabama Bankm Association, 2011 - 201l Paul 

continues to represent ABA as one of its oulside COUDSel. 

Usted in Chambtr1 ~ (2()()7 tlrrough 2017 tdltlons) as one af America's Leading Business Lawyers 

for ~lankin& .t Finance al¥1 Banking .t Finance: Mainly Regulatory (ladiDa individuals; Band 1). 

Lep1 Adviser, Alabama Affordable Housing Association (AAHA). AAHA is a tilde group for 

developers, property Dl8llageiS, 1endels, iJmstors and service providers for affordable housing. Its 

mernbeB are respoosible for the developmCm and management of more than 75% of all rent mtricted 

bousing in Alablma. AAHA ~ Wlllks wilh the staff of the Alabama Housing Finance A\dhorily 

regatding housing policy in Alabama. . 

12 
44 

PREPARED STATEMENT OF ANNA MARIA FARIAS 

TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR FAIR HOUSING AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, 

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

JULY 18, 2017 

Thank you, Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member Brown, and all the distinguished 

Members of this Committee. 

I would like to thank President Trump for nominating me to serve as HUD’s Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity and Secretary Carson for 

his strong support of my nomination. 

I would also like to recognize the person who has been the most important part 

of my life, my mom, Ofelia Gutierrez, who is not here today because she is 89 years 

old and disabled. But she will be watching us. I am an only child and my cousins 

will watch the proceedings later because they are working and that is exactly where 

I want them—working. 

I would also like to recognize the Honorable Kim Kendrick, former Assistant Secretary under President George W. Bush, and my fellow HUD nominees here on the 

panel. If confirmed, I look forward to working with them. 

The mission at HUD is to provide access to safe, affordable housing to all Americans and my job would be the Chief Enforcer of the Nation’s fair housing laws. I 

am fully, strongly committed to those laws. FHEO leads the Nation in the development, enforcement, and public understanding of the FairHousing Act. 

I come before you with over 20 years of Federal Government experience, including 

eight at HUD. 

But, before that, you should know that I am a product of public housing. I grew 

up in the Housing Projects of Crystal City, Texas, a small town of 8,000. I am the 

only child of a single mother with a third grade education making $12–$20 working 

6 1⁄2 days per week as a domestic. 

My mother insisted that I get an education. She always said that her work was 

honorable and honest but she wanted something different for me. 

My mother was willing to sacrifice in order to give me an opportunity to succeed 

and I quickly realized that hard work in my case could achieve success, not just survival. 

As my high school valedictorian, I received a full scholarship to Boston University 

where once again I was blessed to come across someone who had my best interest 

at heart, a young philosophy professor who became my mentor. His name: William 

J. Bennett. 

When he became Secretary of Education, I left a safe Government job and spent 

4 years working alongside him—never a dull moment. 

In between Administrations, I did the one thing I said I was never going to do— 

go back to a small town. I became the Executive Director of the housing developments where I grew up and became one of the first Executive Directors in the country to agree to live in the housing developments. The Board of Commissioners assigned me to what was then called Project Terror, the site of some murders, rapes, 

child prostitution, child pornography and drug dealing. My job was to clean it up. 

I was able to do so only because the majority of the residents wanted the same 

things for their children and grandchildren that my mother had wanted for me 

when I was a child—safety and an education. Working with the residents, the Housing Authority received over a dozen awards and I was inducted into the Texas Woman’s Hall of Fame. 

Mr. Chairman, FHEO is an extremely important office to millions of Americans. 

If confirmed, my approach will be what it’s always been. To follow the statute, the 

rules, and the facts. I will seek to enforce the fair housing laws vigorously and in 

an impartial manner. And I pledge to work in a bipartisan manner with this Committee and all of Congress to meet the housing challenges facing our Nation. 

I thank the Members of this Committee for the honor and opportunity to appear 

before you today. I stand ready to answer your questions. 

45 


71817011.eps

STATEMENT FOR COMPLETION BY PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEES 

Name: 

Faria 

Position to which nominated: Assistant Secretary of Fair .Housing &Equal Opportunity HUD 

Date of nomination: 

Dateofbirth: IS/1011952 

(lloJ) . (Moo6j (Y.., 

Marital Status: Single 

Name aod ages of children: N/A 

Edocalioa: 

I.Mtitutioa 

Temple Law SdJool 

Bostoo University 

CeystzJ City Hiah Scbxll 

Place of birth: Su Alltooio, Tens 

Full name of SPouse: NIA 

Dales Degnes Da~of 

tamded received degrees 

Im-1980 JD OS/1980 

lm-1976 B.A. Cum Laude OS/1976 

1968-Im ValedictoriaD os11m 

HoaoB 

and awards: 

List below all scbolll!hips, fellowlbips, booorary ~ military medals, honorary 

society mcmbenhips and any other special recognition for o1Jtstaoding setYiee or 

atbievemenl 

~AaacbedListA 
46 


71817012.eps

List below all membets!tips and offices held in professional, fraternal, business, scbollriy, 

civic, cbaritable and odler orgmizations. 

Employmeat rtCOnl: List below all positions held since oollege, including the title or desaiption of job, name 

of employment, location of wort and inclusive datts of employment 

See Alllcbcd Lis~ c 
47 


71817013.eps

Pablishecl 

Writings: 

Political 

Affiliatiou 

List aoy cxpcriCIX% in Clr di~ association ~id! Federal, Sllte, Clr local governments, 

including any advisory, consullltive, honolll)' or od!er part time service or positions. 

See Emplo)mnt ~ Usl c 

List the titles, publishm and dales of books, articles, repo!1S or other published materials 

you have written. 

NONE 

aod activities: List memberships and offices held in and services rendered to all political parties or 

election committees during the last I 0 years. 

See Attached List D 
48 


71817014.eps

Political 

Contributions: Itemize all political contributions of$500 or more to any individual, campaign 

organization, political party, political action committee or similar entity during the last 

eight years and identify specific amounts, dates, and names of recipients. 

Qualifications: 

Future employment 

NIA 

State fully your qualifications to serve in the position to which you have been named. 

(attach sheet) 

See Attached List E 

relationships: I. Indicate whether you will sever aU C()nnections with your present,employer, business 

finn, association or organization if you are C()nfirmed by the Senate. 

YES 

2. As far as can be fo~. state whether you have any plans after completing 

government service to resume·employment, affiliation or practice with your previous 

employer, business firm, association or organization. 

NO 

3. Has anybody made you a commibnent to a job after you leave government? 

NO 

4. Do you expect to serve the fu!l term for which you have been appointed? 

YES 
49 


71817015.eps

Pott~~tbl coaRicts 

or iDterest: I. Describe any financial arrangements or defemd compcmation tgreemm!S or other 

continuing dealin&1 with busineu associales, clients or CU$10!11e1S 1\bo wiD be 

affc:ued by policies which you will influence in the position 10 which you hm been 

nominated. 

NONE 

2. List any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other relationships which might involve 

potential conflicts of interest with the position 10 which you have been nominated. 

NONE 

3. Describe any business relationship, dealing or fmancial transaction (other than tax 

paying) which you have had during the last I 0 yean with the Federal Govemmen~ 

\\nether for younel( oo behalf of a eli~ or actiog as an agen~ that might in any 

~'>1Y constitute or resu~ in a possible conflict of intmst with the position 10 which 

you have been nominated. · 

NONE 
50 


71817016.eps

Civil, criminal and 

· investigatory 

actiollS: 

4. List any lobbying activity during the past ten years in which you have engaged in for the 

purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat or modification of 

any legislation at the national level of government or affecting the administration and 

execution of national law or public policy. 

NONE 

5. Explain how you will resolve any conflict of interest that may be disclosed. by your 

responses to the items above. 

NIA 

I. Give the full derails of any civil or criminal proceeding in which you were a defendant 

or any inquiry or investigation by a Federal, State, or local agency in which you were 

the subject of the inquiry or investigation. 

OIG Audit-98-FW-206· 1807, dated January 28/1998 Housing Authority of the City of 

Crystal City, Texas. All findings cleared and audits closed on June 18,1999. 

2. Give the full details of any proceeding, inquiry or investigation by any professional 

association including any bar association in which you wm the subject of the 

proceeding, inquiry or investigation. 

NONE 
51 


71817017.eps

1972 

1972-1976 

1973 

1976 

1979 

1979-1980 

1980 

1982 

1984 

1985-1988 

1985 

1985 

1986 

1986 

1987 

1987 

1987 

1987 

1987 

1988 

1988 

1988 

11Page 

Us! A 

ANNA MARIA FARIAS, ESQ 

AWARDS AND SPECAl RECOGNITION 

High Sdlool Valedictorian 

Boston University Scholarship Award 

8lyn Mawr Scho a~hip to Spain 

Boston University CUm Laude Graduate 

Phil Alpha Delta Law Fraternity Outstanding Service to the law School Award, 

Temple' Law School, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • 

Temple Law School Class Pre.sident 

Albert M. Cohen Memorial Award for Outstanding Service to the Law Schoot 

Temple law School, PhRadelphia, Pennsylvania 

Meritorious Achievement Award, General Counsel, Merit Systems Protection Board, 

Washington D.C. 

Special Achieyj!ment Award, General Counsel, Merit Systems Protection Soard, 

Washington, D.C. 

Outstanding Performance Awards, U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 

U.S. Department of Education Certificate of Appt'edation 

Professional Achievement Award, Clystal City, Texas 

Young Alumni Achi!Vj!ment Award, Boston Unive~ity. Boston, Massachusetts 

Bexar County Commissioners Award, San Antonio, Texas 

U.S. Department of Education Spedal Service Award 

Award of Excellence, Houston, Texas 

Clear Lake Intermediate School Award, Houston, Texas 

Commencement Speaker, Crystal City, Texas 

Penn~lvan a St.lte Award 

las Vegas, Nevada Award 

Clark County, Nevada Award 

Boston Univers(ty National Alumni Council Award, Boston, Massachusetts 
52 


71817018.eps

1988 

1988 

1989 

1993 

1993 

1993 

1994 

1.994 

1994 

1.994 

1994 

1994 

1.994 

1994 

1995 

1995 

1995 

1995 

1996 

1996 

1997 

1997 

1997 

1997 

1998 

1998 

1998 

21 Page 

National Advisory and Coonlinating Council on BOin&IJal Eduation Commendation 

Boston University National Alumni Council Award, 8oston. Mas~husetts 

Mexican Americin Womer{s National Assodition Awanl 

Commendable Performance Rating- National labor Relations Soard 

Recipient ofthe U.S. labor Secretary's Exceptional Achievement Award 

Penonal Merit Achievement Award, Crystal City, Texas Hou~ Authority 

Texas Anorney General Certifocate ol Award 

Commencement Spealcer, Southwest Texas Junior College, l/Valdt, Texas 

Commencemtnt Speaker, St. Girard Catholic lf!lll School. San Antonio, Texas 

Commencement Speaker, Asherton High Schoo~ Asherton, Texas 

PubriC Housi,_ Manacer Ctrtilicition 

NAHRO Award ol Merit lor Acoountllbifrty and Management lnnMtion 

Texa.s Housing Award of Excellence lor Affordable Housing and Public Service 

NAHRO Award of Merit lor l.andsaping and Spans Field 

NAHRO Award ol Merit lor Know1edge is Power: GEO/ESI/Chid tare/Courses 

NAHRO Award oiMer~ lor Moocada Coutts Modernization 

NAHRO Award ol Merit lOt~ Employment and Mocltr!Wtion 

NAHRO Awanl ol Merit lor First r orne llomeownemup-Affordable Housing 

Commencement Speaker, !a Pryor High School, La Pryor, Texas 

Commencement Speaker, Cryml City Detention Ctnter, CtysUI City, Texas 

NAHRO Award of Merit lor Kn~ge is Power. CitizMship/Nurse's Aide/Computer 

Coorses 

NAHRO Awanl of Merit for After School, Elderly, and SunvnerYouth Ptegl3m 

NAHRO Awanl of Merit for Housing Dewlopment and City Curfew Policy 

NAHRO Award of Merit. for Training and Hir~ ol Section 3 Residents 

Spealter, Oxford University lnttrnational- Oxford, ErcJind 

NAHRO Awanl of Merit for Resident Housing Volunteer Activitits 

NAHRO Awanl of Merit for Women's She~er Domestic Abuse Assistance 
53 


71817019.eps

1999 

2000 

2000 

2015 

3IPase 

KeynoteSflealcer-•A Salute to San Antonio Latina Women in /Jaion• 

· National HispM!ic Leade~lp uiJe Award for Community~ 

Texas Women's Hall of fame for Professional Ll!admhip 

Covil'lgton's Who's Who VIP Mtmber of the Elcecutive and Professional Resistry 
54 


71817020.eps

2013-Pment 

2011-Pment 

2009-2010 

1999-2002 

1998-1990 

1998-1999 

1997-1998 

1997-2000 

1996-1997 

1994-2000 

.1994-1995 

1974-1995 

41Pase 

UstB 

Mtmbenlllps 

a.a~. Bolnl of Regents Tws WOIIliln's UnlvtM{, Denton, Dan,s, Houston, Tws 

Board Mmber, One SUr Foundation, Austin, Texas 

Membtr of NationaiBolrd of Oiri!Cton, Mana, Wasllircton D.C. 

National Advisory Counci: Center for tilt Study of tilt Presidency, New Yort, New Yort 

National Alumni Council: Boston UniveM{, Boston, Massachusetts 

lone Cllalrman,lions Oub, lew 

Wonter Garden GrtJUndwatff ConseMtion Ol!ltlct Board, Texas 

Winter Garden Women's SMher Board, Texas 

President. Spinach Capital lions Oub, Clystal City, Texas 

President, Clystal City IJttle ~1&\lt 

The Hispanic National Policy Forum, Inc, Washington, D.C. 

Center Fellow: Center for tilt Study of tilt Presidency 
55 


71817021.eps

Aur. 2007 -Dec. zoos 

2004-Auc. 2fiJ7 

2002-2004 

2001-2002 

1993-2000 

1992-1993 

SIPage 

llstC 

Employment Record 

DiriCtor for the Center for Falth-8as.d and Commlllity Initiatives, U.S. 

Department of Housh'C and Urban Development, Washincton, D.C. 

ltd ond moMgfd thf dtvt/opmtnt, /mpltmtntotion, monnoring ond t .. luotlon of 

HUD' rtspOIISt In hf/plng {onh·bostd ond tcmm<JI1itygroups ldtntify funding 

oppot111111lits, rtSOuten, svpport ond porltlttShips to hf/p low·incomt commun&. 

Actinc DiriCtor lot the Centtr lot Faltll.aased and Community Initiatives. 

Deputy Assirunt Slamry for Gnnt Propams lot Comnnnty P~MWnc and 

DMiopment 

ltd ond hod ownip'lt of $16.1 blliiM {rK tilt Guf Coos! Cisosttr RtaMrfond o S6J 

bilion budgft irlgtanU toltott, locdprmmeou,ar.d~ ~ ond 

svptf'Jisd UO tmp/oftu. Hod /Utf$dkliOII tr1tr tilt Ccmmunol'y Dtvtlopntnt Block 

Groll! p<OgrCm (CDBG), Homt lnmtmtll/ Portnetships Progrom (HOME}, Stction JOI 

Loon Guotonttt Progrom, £nW.nmtlll ond £ntrgy Progrom, tht Arntrialn Ortom 

Down Poymtnt lnltlotm (ADOI) ond Dlsolttr RtcDvery. 

Dejllrty Assistant Secretary for Special Initiatives lot Community Plannln& 

and Development 

Ccotdinattd with tht S.Wth10tit Empowtrmtnt Zoot<, £ntilltmtnt Comrnuni!it1, ond 

ftd<rol mWts to {odlilott 6 ttcMicol ossi!toiiCt wod:sbops to prOINct o gvidt on 

burlntu p/oMif19 {rK '-ing O«t'//fof'ts to the CQiooias. 

Senior Counsel to Slamry of Housinc and Urban DMiopment. Mel 

Martinez 

h!Mdtd O<Mct ... the ColonD /ntio!t'f. ~~the Cotru.td Ftdttal 

~ fot Housing /uUel. RIJITJI Housing ond ECI>IIIlmi: DM/o;wtlll ond 

~ofnumtl1lCISowotds. 

ExecutiVe DiriCtor, Houslnc Authority of the City of Cryml City, Texas 

Dilr<ttd ond odmlnbttrtd air ortMtlts of tht Authority's Low Rent St<tion 8, f{>rm 

Labor Project ond Comprehtnslw Groot Progroms; Publi< Housing Monogtr 

Ctlti{icatlon; Rtdp/tnt of Jl Notional Assodot/on of Ho111ing ond Rtdtve/opmtnt 

O{ficiol A words of Mtrif; Rttlpltnt of tht 1994 Ttxos Housing A word of Exalh~ frx 

A/fordoblt Housing and Publi< StMa; lltdpitnt of o notlono/....,rd {or rrslding In 

public housing lOMe bdng tht txtcvtNt dirfctOf. 

Member wace Appeals Board and Board of Sel'vict Contract Appeals, u.s. 

Department of labor, WMI*1ctcn, D.C. 

1M W09t Apptals 8oord htors opptals ~ qu<>r~ons of lawond Joa Ulldtr 

the DIMs ....,.Act awtmilg reqolrtd prtVDIWtg ,..son ftdttol COIISitUctloo 

-..xu; ,. Stntt CAWroc18oord htors oppeolt IJti/Jtr the McNomoto.o'llllro 

Stntt Contract Aa ~ rtqWed prtVDiling ""9" to .lmlic:t tmploym 

~on gowmment contracts; lltdpitnt of tht 'Seattary's Ex.ctptionof 

Adbtvtmtot A word. • 
56 


71817022.eps

1992 

1989-1992 

1988-1989 

1.985-1988 

l98S 

1980-1985 

X.mmer1978 

~ AdWof to 1!le Deputy Secretary of labor, Wu~Uncton, D.C. 

~/ot~assistanuond~ln tht~IX!Mitsoftht 

DfpAy Stem.., of IDbor, end /ottht O"~t cf{lw ~ boonls. 

Counsel to the National Labor Relations Board Mtmbtr Devaney, 

Washlncton, D.C. 

NfvfHd ond ht/ptd tilt Boord memben in od/lldkatlon of unfok /obor ptodict ond 

rtptfltntDiion CDStS. 

Attorney Ad\isor to 1!le Assistant Secretary, Office for the Civil Ricjlts, 

~ 

Department of Education, W~ncton, D.C. 

/ndJdtd pi1Miilg ltgo/CJ)UIIlt/ 011 pmllllllt!«tioos cndlllbtt 

~tcledsiw. 

Deputy Director, Office of Bilin&ual Education and Minority Lancua,e Affairs, 

Department of Education, Washincton, D.C. 

Rt>ponsiblt /Of day·tO<ioy mooogtmt/11 of billllguol tdvcot/on o/fict, ovetStting o 

staff of 50ond 0$150 mil/loll budgtt in gronU tO StOlt end loco/ 119fltC/tS ond 

instiMlons of li¢ttf tducolioti; KtyMtt spfaktr 01 Mrional conftrrnas; lmpkmtnttd 

lt¢s*>lion by tht lrxf Ccngtess tnli!fnll sdlool dlstricU to nit VII funds; R«ipirtJJ of 

-OIIirds. 

Special Asslsunt/Aitorney Adlisor to the Secrttary of Education, Wibm J. 

Bennett 

Prvlidtd oN« on Edu<Dtion Apptol Boord C01t1. 0/fiu of CM .t/gh!S R~ 

Authotily cast, o!ld 0/flct of BRinguol Edvanion and Minority l.onguogt A{foin; 

Outstanding Pttfolmonct Aword 

Attorney, Office of General Counsel, Mtrit Systems ProtKtion Board, 

Washincton. D.C. 

/liJrMd 8oord 011 dtdsioa of FtdtrrJI pmlllllltJ Ctllt brc<lg/11 bqott tht 8oord ond 

rrpmlllltd 8oord in o;pefottaM! tMw of lloonf ~ rro.ldfd Boord ltgol 

~ 011 odmilstJII!Nt IIIO!ttts; Rtdpient of-.-nil. 

Law Clerk, Office of General Counse~ Mer~ Systems Protection Board, 

Washincton, D.C. 

Law clerlt, Office of the Deputy Assimnt Secretary of the Treasury, 

Washincton. D.C. 
57 


71817023.eps

2016 

2015-Present 

1999-2000 

1998-1999 

1998 

1994 

1980 

71Pase 

UstO 

Political Affibllons and ActMties 

National Oelqate for Trump 

VICe Chair Republican Party of Bexar County, Texas 

Zavala County Chairperson BUSH FOR PRESIDENT, Texa.s 

Chairperson -Zavala County Republican Party 

Zavala County Chairperson f« RMiection of Governor Bush 

Texas Republican HiljlinicAssoda~ 

Rtpubican National Hispaclit Assembly 
58 


71817024.eps

USTE 

QUAI.IflCATIONS 

l&rew up In tilt Ctyml City Housiog projects and in 1993 went bact home as Executive Oirtctor of the Crystal 

City Housing Authority for five Ytlrs. l was tilt only EKecutive Director in the county that liVed in the housing 

developments durina my tenure. 

2001-2007 U.S. Housina Urban Development, Washington, D.C. 

omtor. Fofth Sostd Of1d Community lnltlotJm; Oepllfy Assistont S«nlllty, Ccmmullily Plonnir.g ord 

~Gt..uO/fi«;Oepo!J'~S«m!ll'fforSptdollritiotlw:l;OfldStniorCDuiiS<lro 

S«nt!ll'f MtJ Moltinu. 

1998-2D01 State Commission«-TwsCornmissionon lll.man Ri&llts 

7bt Ccmmission is mpor1Sllllt frx ptomoli"9 tbt atotion of locQt a>mlllhslons 011 humon 

~IS ord iollelfi9otf"9 complaints olltgingliol9fjoM of tht Humon Rig/Ill Atr ord rbt TDDS Fcir 

Housing Act. Appointed by TtXllS GQ,.r/101 ~ge w. Bush. 

1993-2000 ExeaJtive Director, Housinc Authority of tilt City of Ctystal City, Teus 

Rt$pCI!Siblt for d'Jttcting ond odmWsttring ol ocrMtirs of tbt AJJrilrxily'slow ft1lt StctiM 8, Fctm 

l4bor Proj<ct ond CcmptthlttsNt Gtcnr Programs. 

• MicllostngMooogtt~ 

' Rtcipitntoflwdlot{l1) ll«iccJoo~ofllo<.!singondl!tdt'~Of!iddA-.!sof 

Mtlt. 

• l!t<ipitnl of tbt 1994 TtrDS Housing AM>rd of Exulltnct for A/fordoblt Housing ord Pubfc 

St~. 

In addition, s~ Altochment A for the 13 National Awards Merit and Altochmtnt C for employment rerord$. 
59 

PREPARED STATEMENT OF NEAL RACKLEFF 

TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR COMMUNITY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT, 

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

JULY 18, 2017 

Thank you, Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member Brown, and all the Members of 

this Committee for inviting me to testify today. 

I am delighted to introduce my wife of 29 years, the lovely Christa Rackleff. She 

is the pillar of strength in our family, my best friend, and in every way my better. 

Two of our great children, Eve and Karen, are with us today. Our other two children, Stephen and Annie, and our son-in-law Brett, were unable to attend. My family is the most important thing to me in time and eternity. 

Mr. Chairman, I am honored to be nominated to serve as Assistant Secretary of 

Community Planning and Development at the Department of Housing and Urban 

Development. 

For over 20 years I’ve worked at the intersection of the public and private sectors, 

doing real estate development focused on resurrecting ailing communities and providing high quality housing for hard working, good people who—despite their best 

efforts—are still in need. 

I started on this path as a young city attorney in the mid-90s. Downtown Houston 

was in trouble, property values were declining and population was fleeing to the 

suburbs. Under the direction of a visionary Mayor, I served on the team that successfully implemented public-private partnerships to redevelop historic downtown 

properties and revitalize a public housing complex that had been mired in litigation 

for years. 

Houston not only turned around, but came roaring back, after these projects ignited a downtown renaissance. I was blessed to learn from some of the brightest 

legal and real estate experts in the city’s history. We used private sector creativity 

and innovation to achieve results with the public sector that neither sector could 

have accomplished alone. 

Public-private partnerships can affect incredible change. For example, a terribly 

blighted apartment complex plagued a Houston inner-city community. For more 

than 10 years, local, State and Federal officials tried to condemn and demolish the 

structure, but a wily slum lord successfully slipped from their grasp. My team took 

a different approach—we analyzed the market forces at work, then partnered with 

the local school district and used funds, from a tax increment finance district and 

the school district, to purchase and demolish the slum property. An elementary 

school stands today on the former epicenter of blight that was dragging down an 

entire neighborhood. 

My faith has been a formative factor in focusing on families in need. I served as 

the Bishop of an inner-city congregation for many years and saw first-hand how 

hard so many people struggle to meet basic needs. And I became convinced that 

most people struggling with poverty desire a hand up rather than a hand out. So 

I decided to do what I could to be part of the solution in helping people become selfreliant. 

That faith motivated me to leave my private law practice at Locke Lord and return to the city to serve in the Housing and Community Development Department. 

I hoped to be able to ‘‘give back’’ in some way to the great city that had afforded 

my family such great opportunities. 

When I took the reins as Director, the department was struggling. Looming over 

it were 102 HUD findings and over $80 million in potential fines. But a great team 

pulled together and not only cleared every finding—we transformed our department 

to one of the most effective in the Nation. 

During my tenure, the department financed completion of 7,800 high-quality affordable multifamily housing units, with another 2,700 in progress. And we assisted 

1,700 single-family homeowners with reconstruction of hurricane-damaged homes, 

financial assistance for low-income home buyers, and emergency home repairs. 

Houston has an unstoppable ‘‘can-do’’ spirit. During this same timeframe, the city, 

Harris County, the for-profit and nonprofit sectors, partnered with HUD to alleviate 

homelessness. Within a few years, we reduced chronic homelessness by more than 

70 percent and became the first major city in the country to effectively eliminate 

the homelessness of veterans. 

Unfortunately, Houston’s spirit has been tested by nature’s catastrophic forces. I 

am grateful that during my tenure at the Housing and Community Development 

Department, we turned around a troubled $109 million Disaster Recovery Round 1 

program. We also received an additional Disaster Relief grant of $178 million in 

60 

Round 2. I am very proud of this work to help the people of Houston as we confronted the aftermath of nature’s fury. 

I’ve become convinced that the democratization of data is key to more effective 

governance. In the aftermath of severe flooding, I worked with a coalition of faithbased and nonprofit groups to alleviate suffering in Houston. We mined the city’s 

fire, police and public works databases, to generate GIS maps enabling churches 

and civic groups to locate and serve the elderly and disabled who desperately needed help. We then utilized an open-source social media platform to share data and 

avoid duplication of efforts as the various philanthropic groups worked together in 

the same space. 

I have been amazed to see the successes that are possible in ameliorating suffering when people put aside differences and ideologies in a united effort to help 

their neighbors. Love has animated the work I have been a part of and I have loved 

serving others. The reason I am offering to serve at HUD is that I hope to have 

the opportunity of doing more to help my fellow Americans. 

Mr. Chairman, thank you for this opportunity to appear before you. Thank you 

to the entire Committee. I welcome your questions. 

61 


71817025.eps

j· STATEMENT FOR COMPLETION BY PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEES 

Name: Racldeff 

(Last) 

.Tames 

!""ddle) 

Position to which nomtoated: HUD.Assistant Secretary, Community Planning & Development 

Date of nomination: 

Daie of birth: 05/06il964 Pla~e of birth: Orange, CA 

~y) (Moclh) {Yut) 

Marital Status: Married· Full name of spoU,Se: Christa Rackleff 

Name and ages of ehildrt11: Eve Rackleff- 28, Annie Jones- 24, Stephen Edwazd Rackleff, !I"" 22, Karen 

Elise Rackfeff- 18 

Education: 

Institution · 

San Clement High. School, San Cleinente, CA 

Brigham Y OIJIIg {,lnivenity, Provo U1ah 

Dates 

attended 

De~ 

received 

Dates of 

d~grees 

09/J 97.8 • 0611982 HS Diploma 06/1982 

· 09/1982-0BIJ991 BacbelorofAIU oa/1991 

UniversityofSou1hern Califomia Goold School of Law 0911990 - 1:!1!993' !Uris Doctor !2/1991 · 

•Note: 1 was a visi1ing student at lbe University ofHqusmn Law Center for my dtird year, but recei\•ed my degree from 

usc. . 

Honon . 

· and award.!: 

List below all scholarships, fellowships. honol'al)' degi-ees, military medals, honol'al)' 

society memberships and any other special recognitions for outstanding service or 

achievement. · 

Academic scholarship Brigham Young University-I believe J received ii in my !unior Year. 

The20l6 HUDSeattary's Housint&Comm!JIIity Design Award for community infonned des.ign, recognized "DiS3SIU 

Recovery Round 2" Single Family Home design process thai I initiated and oversaw while seMng as 1be Housing Director of 

the.9ity of Houston. · 

Memhenhips: List below all memberships and offices held in professional, fraternal, business, 

scholarly, civic, ~aritable and other organizations. 

Prganization · 

Tuu Bar A.ssodlttoo 

America a Bar Associado• 

AuJtin Btr Assodatioa 

Boustoollar A.ssoobdoo 

Office held {if any) 

· Membero!Bor 

Mt111ber 

f!lember 

Momber 

Dates 

05/0411994 to preseot · 

Aprlll0l7 to prmot 

Jaaaaryl017 to prtStllt 

mstown 
62 


71817026.eps

EmploYJDenll'ftOnl: List below all positions beld since college, including the tide or desaipcioo of job, 

name of employment, location of IV(Irk, and inclusive dateS of employment. 

A/IQmq-Parllru 

Locke Lon! LLP AustiD & Houston, TX July II, 2016-Prcseol 

• R=ited by fonni:r firm to rejoin premier affordable housing and commtmity development practice 

in Texas 

o Represent private sector developen, non-profits and govemmenl!l entities in finding 

solutions to project fmancing. regulatory and development challenges 

o Expert in Low-Income Housing Tax Credit development 

o Invited to testify bem Texas Senate end HouseofRqresc:n!atives Commi~ regarding 

affordable housing and commtmity development legislation · 

o Represent developer of I ,200-acre City Center on annexation, zoning and economic 

development and infias1zuc:Cure mattas 

o Represenl chemical company in securing economic incentives fiom local go\munents 

Dlrwr 

HoliSing aad CommlUlily Developmml Dept. HOWIOU, TX Jan. 26, 2012-June 17,2016 

• Successfully turned around lroubled department, restoring confidence and credibility with mayor, 

city councilllld developmeot community 

o Dramatically improved financial reporting and accouruability 

o Improved employee morale 

o Improved intezdepertmenl!l cooperalion and coordination yielding increased productivity 

o Improved relationsbip5 end communication with City Council, key Housing 3lld Commtmity 

Development adVOC8!es, and federal and Slate agencies 

• Managed all operations of Department with staff of I 60 and $60,000,oo0 annual budget 

o Led Housing, eeonomic developmecl, CDBO, HOME, Section I 08, HOPW A, ESO, and 

Homeless Bonds pTOgJ8IDS 

• Oversaw development and renovation of affordable multifamily and single-family housing 

prog!llllS, resulting in over 7,000 units created with over 2,000 more in proaress 

o Entailed investment of over $200,000,000 of govemmental timding wbicl! leveraged 

investment of over $700,000,000 in Houston economy 

• Oversaw federal Hwrieane Ike Disester Recovery program, which included: 

o Rectifying Calttljog $80,000,000 Disaster Recovery Round I progJ1IIl 

o Securing giant of additiooal $178,000,000 I>Uaster Recovery Round 2 program fuocb 

o Developing and implementing innovative federally funded public infrastructure development 

program 

Dtpu(y Directgr!Gmtral Counstl 

Housiag and Community Development Department Houston, TX July 18, 2011-Jan. 26,2012 

• Supervised all legal services for the Departmeut 

• Improved coordination and delivery of legal services belween Departmenl and City Attorney's office 
63 


71817027.eps

• Mmaged non-legal penonnel &Del pro8J!IIIS 

Attofi!!V:Associau 

Locke Lord Bissell & LiddeltLLP Houston, TX Feb. 2005 -July2011 

Practiced Affordable Housing. Municipal, Real Estate, Economic and Community Development, 

Govemm.ent Relations, and Tax Law , . 

• Rep~ented developers in oegotiations with municipaliti~ oounties and special purpose districts 

such as municipal utility districts, municipal management districts, public improvement districts and 

Tax Inaement F!llaDCe DistricU in the formatioo of public/priva!e pa!lne!Ships to promote 

development of public inUastructln · 

• Represented clienls in fedcnl &Dd state regulatory oompliauce, government oonlrading. 

~men~ opeo meeting and public infol'll!!tion act issues 

• Represented developers of real estate, infrastructure and oommC~tial facilities (Including proposed 

nuclear and solar power plonts) in the private and public sectors 

• Represented private parties in structuring tax incentives and eoonomic development initiatives in 

partnerShip with governmental entities 

• Developed exta!Sive oetwork of relationships with numerous goveimnent officials; bmlled 

government relations for broad amy of clients et the local &Del stele levels 

• Excellent tract record of solving I&Dd liSe and zoning issues 

• Represented developers, housing authorities, housing finanoe oozpo1'11ions and noo"J))Ifit groups on 

affordable housing and revitalization initiatives 

General CoulfSel 

HouJing Authority of the City of Houston Houston, TX 

Responsible for all legal malte!S affecting the Authority including: 

Jan. 2003-Ian. 2005 

• Advised the Executive Director, Boazd ofCollllllisUoners, and Department Directors 

• Managed fedcnl regulatory and Sla!Uiory compliance for entire agency 

• Defended Authority in regulalory oompliaoce audits with HUD OffiCe ofl.nspedor General 

• Ovetsaw all inrureoce activities 

• Handled all agency tlansactional matters 

·, Managed litigation including real esute, oommercial, tort and Jahorfemployment matte!S 

• Supervised outside counsel from four different law fums 

• Negotiated and.structured complex real estate development projects 

o Led oomplex and innovative negotiations on constructioo of thJee multifamily developments 

comprising 716 units 

o Led development activities including formation of public/private partnerships utilizing Low 

Income Housing Tax Credits, Tax Exempt Bo!¥1s and HUD funding (mcluding HOPE VI) 

o Represented the Authority in public hearings and testified before state agencies such as the 

Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs and the Texas Bond Review Board 

• Served as liaison to Houstoo City Council and bandied legislative and political matters affecting the 

Authority 

VIet Prtsidtlll & Gtlltral CoiUistl 

GrteDJpoint Mantgematl District & Redevelopment Authority Houston. TX July 2000- Dec. 2002 

Managed Redevelopment Authority and Tax lncremeol F'!llaDCe District (I1F) and served as Genenl 

Counsel for District, Authority and T1F boards of cfueclors 

3 
64 


71817028.eps

• lMclecl $250,000,000 TIP-funded Capital Improvement Plan 

Closed $20,000,000 TIF bood issue 

Negotiated TIF reimbursement agreements with multifamily, commercial and retail devclopm 

Concluded public/private partnership with Alcl!on (a Goldman-Sachs $Ubsidiary} resulting in 

renovation of 5,000 apartments in Greenspoin~ development of 1\W public pub, bike and bike IJails 

and atensive ~ renovation of major thoroughfares 

Following I 0 yean of 1.11lSUCCeS$ful effom of City, Managaneot Disttict and other governmental 

leaders to revitalize extremely blighted apartment complex, solved problem by forming innovative 

partnership betweco TIF and school disttict. Blight was eliminated and a new elemcotaty scllool bas 

been constnscted on the site. 

Public F111~11ct & Rtal Estalt dttoncq 

Coa!J, Rose, Yale, Ryman & Lee, P.C. Houston, TX 

Associate practicing in Public finaoc:e and real estate sections oftbe firm 

March 1997 -:July 2000 

• Represen!ed developers and govemmeo!al eotities in forming publicJprivale partnerships to faciUtatc 

inoer-city le'litaliution and dcvelopmeot of affordable housing. 

• Successfully lobbied officials of federal, state, and local govemments to ob!ain support for lowinc:ome boasiog tax cm!it developments 

Cou!IUI to Aisistmtl to Mavor (or HoU!illt and Jnntt-ci/yRtvilal@!lon 

Mayor's Offiee aad aty Attorney's Offiee Houston, TX July 1995 • March 1997 

Assigned by Mayor and City Attorney to work exclusively with AssiSW!l to Mayor in ac.ltieving 

communi1y development aDd revitalization goals 

• Acoomplishcd major inner-city revitalization projects includin& Rice Hotel and Allen Parkway 

ViUage 

• Coordinated efforts between the Houston Deparunent of Housing and Community Dcvelopmen~ the 

Houston Housing Finance Corpol1lion and the Housing Authority of !he City of Houston 

AssistanJ CitrAIIDrney 

aty Attorney's Office HousiM, TX Jmuary 1994 • July 1995 

• Counsel for the Depar1ment of Aviation on real estate, regulatory, col1lllltl'tial, construction, 

environmeo!al and Chapter II and 7 benbuptcy matters. Extensive researd! and inmpretalion of 

Federal Jaw aDd regulations. 

• Negotiated favorable sellle:mellt$ in telecommunications lilud disputes with major multinational 

long-distance carrier. Served as lead counsel on major airport concession agreemeots. 

Government 

experiente: List any experience in or direel association with Federal, State, or local governments, 

incJ1lding any advilO!y, coasultalive, bollO!aiY or other pill time service or positions. 
65 


71817029.eps

Publilhed 

Writings: 

Political 

Affiliations 

and activities: 

Political 

See information above in employment record section. 

List lhe tides, publishers and dates of books, articles, tql0r1s or other published materials 

you have written. 

None 

List memberships and offices held in and services rendered to all poiitical parties or 

election committees duruig the last 10 years. 

None 

Contributions: Itemize all political contributions of$500 or more to any individual, campaign 

organization, political party, political aciion committee or similar entity during the last 

eight years and identify specific amounts, dates, and names of recipients. 

None. 

. Qualifications: State fully your qualifications to serve in the position to wbicb you have been named • 

(attach sheet) . . · 

SUMMARY OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND EXPERTISE 

• 20+ years of innovative Privatt/Public partnerships finding ways to succeed where others failed, 

including: . 

o l.nner-city Revitalization and Job Creation-created numerous publitlprivate partnerships 

to strengthen communities and create jobs for HoustoniBilS, including: 

• · J!,edevelopment of historic downtown Houston JW Marriott using HUD Section I 08 

financing, historic tax credits, Hotel Occupancy Tax reba~ and a Tax Iocrtment 

Finance District (fiF) reimbursement 

• Successful turn-aiouod of troubled 180,000,000 CDBG Disaster Recovery Housing 

program, leading to atquisition of an additional $178,000,000 in funding for Houston 

• New development of Pyburn's Grocery Store, Houston's first partnership to address a 

food desert, using CDBG frnancing 

• · Creative use ofHUD funding to demolish blighted apartment projects 

• Historic Rice Hotel rehabilitation using HUD financing, creation of Market Square 

TIF and purchase of property through Houston Housing Finance Corporation 1 Allen Parkway Village HOPE VI rehabilitation utilizing HUD HOPE VI Grant and 

Housing Tax.Credits 

o Homelessness - oversaw investment of$102,000,000 in federal and local funds to alleviate 

bomelessness in Houston, resulting in: · 1 70'k reduction in chronic homelessness 

• '2,744 homes provided 
66 


71817030.eps

• VUIUal eliminationofve~mn's homelessness 

• 3,917 homes p.rovided for Veterans 

• Presideot Obama ~ud HOIISIOa for this ac1tiewment 

• Semtaries ofHUD, VA and Labor visited Houston to mark this historic 

milestone 

o Fair Hoasin&-;:Houston's major inner-city ~vitalization projects wm tbrealened by 

years of delay or t · lion liy litigation from fair housing advocates-!legotiated win· win 

solution llld proj ~ 

• other local government's projects during same fight have been delayed or abandoned 

• foiled strong relationships of trust with leading fair housing activists in Texas 

• built strong relatioosbips oflrust with I!IISS roots fair housing groups in Texas 

• eipert in fair housing law/strategy 

o Ecoaomk Devtlopmeot toob 111d stnleJits - legal expertise nego1iJtiug ecoaomic 

inoentive packages totaling over $200,000,000 for major master planned oommunity. and 

oomparties such as Gulf Statts Toyota, Sclilitlttbahn aod Transweslem 

• Creation and representa!ioo ofT ax inaemenl Finance Dil1ric:u 

o Public Housing Authority Development-spearheaded one of the most prolific periods of 

development of new affotdable housing in history of Holl!IOn Housing Authority 

o Affordable Housinc Development Generally- Oversaw legal and busines! aspects of 

development of thousalids of units of high-quality affordable housing i.o Texas, including 

• TIIDSit Oriented DevelopmCill, Mixed-me and Mixed-inoorne devtlopmeut 

o Programmatic Expcrti.se-ExteDSive knowledge of and ~rience with most federal, Texas 

and Texas local government affordable housing and oommuoity development programs 

utilizrd by urban areas, including 

• CDBO, HOME, HOPE VI, Section 108, Housing Tax CrediiS, Tax Exempt Bond 

financ:iog, HOPWA,and Section 8 Voochcrs 

o Compliance-Expert in federal and state regulatory oompliaooe, government oontractin& 

procurement, open meeting aod public information act issues 

o Infrutnctare FiDmiac--iMowtion combining federal funding with local eoonomic 

development tools to develop streets, utilities, rail lines, tunnels and drainage facilities · 

• Public La", Media and Publk Spulda& experience: 

o numerous successful prin~ radio, television and web interviews 

o myriad presentations to legal, housing. ed\IC81ional, and govemmeotal bodies and leaders 

including City Council, Texas Legislature, llld US Congress 

o numerous strong' oontaCIS in local, state and federal governmeniS 

o illnovative use of social media plttform to realizt efficiencies in disaster reoovery 

See abo uperience above in "Employment Reoord" section. 

Future employment 

relationships: I. Indicate whether you will sever all connections with your present employer, business 

firm, associalioo or organizAtion if you a:e ooafirmed by the Senate. YES 

2. As far as can be foreseen, state whether you have any plans after completing 

government servioe to resume emplo)'l!lellt, affiliation or~ with your ~ous 

employer, business firm, association or organization. 
67 


71817031.eps

I may return to the practice of law and may resume pradieing with my current law 

firm if there is a position availablo-however, I have been given no such offer or 

guarantee of being able to return to tbe firm, nor blVe I asked for any such offer or 

guarantee. 

I 

3. Has anybody made you a commibnent to a job after you leave government? NO 

4. Do you expect to serve the full term for which you have been appointed? YES 
68 


71817032.eps

Potential eolrllkls 

ofinterest 

Civil, criminal and 

inve.sticatory 

actions: 

I. Describe any financial arrangements or deferred compensation ~ents or other 

continuing dealings with business associates, clients or customers who will be 

affected by policies which you will inllueoce in the position to whicb you have been 

Dllll1iDated. 

None that I 1111 aware of or foresee oecilrrring. 

2. List any investments, obligaliOIIS, liabilities, or Olher relatiOIISbips wbicb might invo!Ye 

potential conflicts of intmst with the positioo to which you have been nominated. 

None thJt I am aware ot 

3. Describe any business relatiooship, dealing or financial transaction (other than lzx 

paying) which you have had during the last I 0 yean with the Federal Oovemmen4 

whether for yourself, on bcbaJf of a cllcn4 or acljng as an ~C04 that might in any 

way constitute or result in a possible c«dli<:: of inttzest with the position to whicb 

you have been nominated. 

None that I 1111 aware of. 

4. List any lobbying activity during the past ten years in \\liicb you have engaged in for 

the JlUIPOSC of directly or i.odilectly inllueocing the passage, defeat or modification 

of any legislalioo at the oatiooallevel of government or affec:tiog the adminislratioo 

ml execution of national law or public policy. 

No such work as a "lobbyist • While Director of the Howing and Community 

, Develop meat deplltmeDt for the city of HoDStoD I did visit BUD headquarters 

oewiollllly to advoeate for the citizeus or the city of Ho111toa. 

S. Explain how yon willre30lve any contlict of intmst that may be disclosed by your 

respD!\St$ to the itmls 100\'t. 

If any conrutt arises I will disclose It and reewe myulf from any related work 

on that specific maHer. I will foOow the diretfioa of the office of govem111cnt 

ethiC$ and HUD ge~~eral couusel to ensure any conflict that may arise is 

handled honestly and ethically. 

I. Give the full deWis of any civil or aiminal proceeding in \\liicb you were a defendant 

or any inquiry or investigation by a Fedml, State, or loeal agency in wbicb you 

were the subject of the inquiry or investigation. 

8 
69 


71817033.eps

While serving as the Director of the Houston Department of Housing and 

Community Development an employee filed a complaint (makiog broad 

a negations, against me and two others) with the City's Office oflnspector 

General, however, the complaint was dismissed for lack of prosecution. The 

City's Inspector General indicated that the individual filed a complaint when 

leaving the department but neyer responded to requests for information from 

the Inspector General's office, hence it was di.!missed. If further details are 

required, please contact Robin Curtis, Inspector General for the City of 

Houston, Texas. She may be reached at (832) 393-6304. 

2. Give the fuU details of any prooeeding, inquiry or investigation by any professional 

association-including any bar association in which you were the subject ofthe 

proceeding, inquiry or investigation. 

I serve as a youth minister in my church. A young man I mentor. lives in 

public housing. His parents struggle with various mental and emotional 

chaUenges and much of the burden of supporting the family falh on the 

shoulders of this 13-y_ear-old young man •. He is an incredible example of 

strtngth, courage and discipline. His father reeently asked for my help 

because a neighbor was using methamphetamine and atlempting to induce 

family members to participate in such behavior •. I asked the neighbor to stay 

away from the family a~d informed her that use of dnigs in public housing is 

grounds for eviction. · 

On May 16,2017, I received notice from !he Texas Bar Association that the . 

neighbor filed a grievance against me with the Bar alleging that I threatened 

her with eviction. The Bar aslociation indicated that they have dismissed the 

grievance and cla.ssified it as an "inquiry" noting that even if the behavior 

described were true it would Iiot constitute any violation of. the Texas Bar 

disciplinary rules. I am happy to provide fuUer details if necessary. 
70 

PREPARED STATEMENT OF RICHARD ASHOOH 

TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR EXPORT ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF

COMMERCE

JULY 18, 2017 

Thank you Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member Brown, and distinguished Members of the Committee. I am honored to have this opportunity to appear before you 

today, and am grateful to the President and the Secretary of Commerce for their 

confidence in me to serve in this capacity. I would like to acknowledge and thank 

the members of my family who are joining us, as well as the many friends in the 

room. Their support means a great deal to me. I would also like to acknowledge the 

memory of Senator Warren Rudman, who was a boss, mentor and friend. His example of fidelity to the country, to his colleagues, and to the Constitution still stands 

as guiding principles in my own life. 

Everyone in America is familiar with the Boston Tea Party. But you would have 

to hail from New Hampshire as I do to have any idea of the Pine Tree Riot. Briefly, 

the Pine Tree Riot was a pre-revolutionary protest in New Hampshire against the 

British Crown’s attempt to regulate the colonial pine tree trade. This is significant 

because these mighty pine trees made the best ships’ masts, and the King reserved 

them for the Royal Navy, allowing Great Britain to project power all over the world. 

The colonists rejected this intrusion into their economy and livelihoods, and the 

Pine Tree Riot was one of several incidents that led the way to Revolution. 

Why this obscure history lesson? Those pine trees were the turbofan engines of 

their day—technology that was vital both to national security and civilian commerce. The Crown’s behavior was in effect an export control—one that didn’t work 

out very well for the King. The point is the need to weigh the national security implications of our technology trade has been with us since before we were a Nation. 

The position to which I have been nominated sits at the intersection where national security, technology, and the economy meet. Never has this juncture been 

more critical. The number and nature of the threats facing our nation—from state 

and nonstate actors alike—has grown. Meanwhile, the pace of technology has not 

only accelerated dramatically—it has shifted. The national security establishment 

once led areas of technology development that are now driven by the commercial 

sector. The responsibility for eliminating the vulnerabilities to our Nation presented 

by these dynamic shifts—while encouraging robust trade in the technology sector— 

rests squarely with the Bureau of Industry and Security. The workload at BIS— 

which has increased and will continue to do so—further reflects these trends. 

Both my desire and readiness to serve in this capacity is a product of a career 

spent advancing key elements of this mission. Early in my career as a Senate staffer, I was privileged to work on issues concerning technology transfer—both illicit 

and inadvertent—to adversary nations. It is noteworthy that the global parties of 

concern at that time—specifically China, the Soviet Union, and Iran—occupy more 

or less the policy priorities BIS faces today. After more than two decades of experience in the aerospace industry, where I was able to work on behalf of some of our 

Nation’s most advanced technology enterprises, the strictures of the U.S. export control regime were, and still are, well known to me. I understand better than most 

both the challenges and necessities associated with technology development, believing that our success as a Nation is underpinned by our ability to remain ahead of 

our adversaries in this area, both commercially and strategically. 

These experiences have imparted to me countless lessons that can help advance 

the critical mission of the Bureau, especially in these challenging times. Should I 

be honored with confirmation, I would look forward to working with you as we endeavor to meet these challenges. 

Thank you again for the privilege of being with you today, and I look forward to 

your questions. 

71 


71817034.eps

STATEMENT FOR COMPLETION BY PRESIDENTIAL NO~ 

PMitioa It~ IIOIIiaated: 

ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF COMMERCE, EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 

Dlle ohemlutiea: WZS'l017 

D11e tf M : t2JKI1.964 

(Dl» (Nooo*J {Y.., 

Martlll ~MARRIED hl-tf.,_: LORI EUZABB'IHASHOOH 

N .. uc1 ~p~ or c:Udrea: 

SOFIA ASHOOH • 23 

EMMAASHOOH ·21 

EUAS ASI:IOOH • 19 

MAYA ASI:IOOH • 18 

SAMUI!L ASI:IOOH • 16 

UNIVERSITY OF NEW HAMPSHIRE 1982-86 8A 

Dates of 

depes 

12/198 

Houn 

aad IWlrcb: 

List below ail scbolmhips. feiiOW!I!ip!, 00110111)' depes, militlry medals, bononry 

society membmbips aod Ill'/ Olber specill recognitions for outslaDdlng sezvice « 

Me~MerU~pa: 

adlievemeut. . 

Ted!America NluDdllioo And, 2012 

BAE S)'!llms Oold A Wild, 2012 

NH BIA • Abow IIIII Beyood" 2009 

NH T~ 10 Most Powerful, 2008 

HlabTech Plli~2004 

NH Business aod IDdustry ~ liDder ~ 2002 

List below Ill JDelllllerWps IDd ollices held in professioaal, fnlemal, bu:siDess, scbolarly, 

c:ivic, cDrillble IDd otbu Olplli:zJiioos. 
72 


71817035.eps

CATHOLICMEDICALCENTER,Boanhflliredonlllll~ The 

direeten 1ft rapelllible for tile gmrauce oldie CMC syttem, wWdl iDdudel 

a J2t.Nd fllll.tenlce lleallh eare fadlty lllllutioully respeded carcJiac 

butit1lfe. 2009-2016. Maacliata', NB. 

UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF NEW HAMPSHIRE, Trustee Goveralllg body of 

~SSM mlliaoltate polt-..dary l)1taD for New lluaplhirt.1""2tlt. 

J'RANKLIN PIERCE UNMRSffY, 'l'nutee The lnlltea govern li'ruldiD 

Pime, alsoo.tDrollmeat llberalarll iDMltatloll•eadqurtered ill RiDdge, NH. 

2t8J.2810. 

McAUIJFR.SBEPARD DISCOVERY CENTE.RIPLANETARIUM, QairlllaD 

The Ct1111111811oe II tbe pvemiDg llody of the Plaaetuiul, aalltHWDell 

attractloa aDd leanliDg iDitlmtlollwith u IDDIIII badge! of$2 mlllloa. 208l2tlt, . 

CHAIRMAN, TECHAMERICA <- PROii'FSSIONAL SERVICES 

COUNCIL) DUENSI FORECAST, Cllalr The TeebAIIIerict Vislea ,_it 

the blply reprdecl iDd111117'FJtl'llecl fedenl8ptlldlag foreeut. 2011·2015. 

NATIONALDUENSEINDUSI'RIALASSOCIATIONNewEicJudfleaioa, 

Member, Board olDirecton Defeose iDcluttry trade uaociatloD 2009-2810. 

EASTER SEAI3 VETERANS COUNT COMMlTTIE, Member The leldiD& 

Prosrtm dtvotecl to astlt1iDg NH V eterus IIIII tbelr familia witll•e broU 

ruge llf iuuca fl1m prto to pest.4cploJmclt. 

.JOSIAH IIARTLE1T CENTER for PUBLIC POLICY, CllairmaD 2011·Praeat 

· New JlaJDp.tlire'aladlag fne.caterprile ~taU. 

BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION, Board olDincton New 

Bampslllre'allrgat balilea advecaey orpDizatioa. 

THE NEW ENGLAND COVNCll., Biard oflllreeton 'l1le utioa'a eldest 

regloul bUtll advteaey lfOIIP. 

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MAN1Jii'ACT\JRERS Pub& AfJaln SUeriDg 

Ctmmit~M 'l1le NPASC Is tbe pa1J11e mocacy - of Gilt of die eoaatry'a 

leadiDg ~M~Deat amcacy otpDizaeioDI. 

NEW HAMPSHIRE PUBLIC TELEVISION, Board ofGofemon The Beard 

of Gofnon "enea opentiGDS of die major Nortlleut recloa Pub& 

llnldculiac Serviee aftlllate. 

NH INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH CENTER, Ovenl&bt CoauDittee MC11111et 

Tbe NHIRC provlda maldaiag grana to New llalapRire eompules to eaable 

imp""CIIItlltl ia tedllloltcY aDd mulfaduJ'mg to ~ die buaiDess poaitiou 

of die applicut eoapuy. 

BEDFORD CREW CLUB, Bedford NH ~· 

2 
73 


71817036.eps

lledferd Cmr Cld •• ,.--~ rvwilll dab. 

OUR LADY or TBI CEDARS CBUJtCB 

l'lri*Cead 

NATIONAL RIFLE ASSOCIATION, MeMer IIDee 2elt 

NATIONAL SKUT SHOOTING ASSOCIATION, Member 1face 2009 

m SKEET AND CLAY SBOOT1NG tl.UB, Hoebelt NH MaUer 2119· 

~ .-d: List below all positioas held siDce c:ollqe, iDdudiJia tbe tide or clecipion of job, -

of~ locllial of wwk,llll illdDsi'le dlla of cmploymeal. 

DIR.ECI'OR, ECONOMIC PAimiERSBJPS 

UNIVI.RSI'J'Y SYSTEM OF NEW HAMPSHIRE Coocord NH 

Marth 2017-praeal. 

Respomib1e for ecooomic developneot initialiioes for tbe System, a 33000 auolled 

studalt instilulion that includes a major raei!Chllliwtsity, a nlliooally llllked law 

ICboo~ 1111 ao urblo ampul. Prlnl..y 1ix:us 0111llpiDa nadl priorities with 

ec:oaomic iqmliws, Yolllkforce ~ aod policy-foalsed eocxdinliioo with 

- dllllalaa- 0 

EXICUI'IVE DIRI.CI'OR, W ARREK B. RlJDMAN CENTER, UNIVI.RSI'J'Y 

OF NEW HAMPSHIRE SCHOOL OF LAW, Coocord NH SqilaDber 201St.Wch2016. 

inleoded 

Rapoos~ote 

to address 

for public 

pe-existiDg 

service opentiQn of~ UNH Sdlool ofLiw. ~ 

managaueut dlaJieoaa II tbe ICbool. StabUizled tbe 

orpaizlliOII, establisbed ~ Slrllqy, ~ doDor 1111 public relllioos. 

Reslmd Uy plltDenlips with otber pillic policy collaboniors, ml cxeaad tbe 

cmter' s public policy missiOII. 

DmiCl'OR, STRATEGY AND PLANNING 

RAE SYSTEMS ELECTRONIC SOLUI'IONS N-., NH 

NoYember2010 to Seplanber 2015. 

R.e$pomiblc for devdopillg aod implementing busiDesa llriiCgies for a $4.2 billion 

compll1)' aod a world Iader in electrooic Wllfart, tacticallldwlllting. aeosor aDd 

iliel1igeoce syslaDS, aod avionics OOOII'Ois. Ptovided SllaJe&Y support to all basiness 

- iD sllllqk plaoaiD& llllliet fmcastiD& aport Sllllelies. ml COIIIpditrle iiRl1ip:c ldivily. 

VICE PRISIDMT, GOVERNMENT RELATIONS 

RAE SY&1'IiMS ILECJ'RONIC SOLVnONS ArtJoatca, VA 

J1111111Y 200S 1o February 2010 

Rapoosible for goYCIDIDelll alliirs for $5.0 billion defeo~e concem, with 19,000 

employees in 20 swa aod tbe Ullited Killgdoal. Accol&llbte for 1cey prognm 

Slrllqjes, busiDesa-. policy IIIMlcacy,llld lllbboldet SllppOit. Key 

coallibutious iDelude prog~IIIIIDIIIic support in EOOR, BW, m!ISR 1reas, aucc:essfal 

Dlllg'eiDelll of Cf1US llllhorizatiOII ml qisilioas, IDd DHS Cclllllrr-MANPADS 

Jllllllllll c:oo:eptioD IDd maiioa. 

3 
74 


71817037.eps

VICE PRESIDENT, HOMELAND SECVIUTY 

BAE SYSTEMS ELECTRONICS SECI'OR Nashua, NH 

Oclobtl2003 to July 2005 

Led the Hcmeland Security (HLS) sntegy developmem of a $2.6 billion bosiness, as 

weU as timctional responsibility for all Sector HLS activity. Respoosibilities included 

specific prognm deYelopmeut to meet tben-uoaddlessed HLS requiremeols, including 

nuclear ndiologial delectioo, COOiliMIIIications inleropcrabilit, IIIII ~ 

aircraft self-protection (Cowlt!r MANP ADS). 

VICE PRESIDENT, LEGISLATIVE AfFAIRS 

BAE SYSTEMS NORTH AMERICA Arlingtoo, VA 

December 2002 to October 2003 

Conceived, established, IIIII led the first COIIIJlldltmive, llllionwide government 

aftiirs timctioo for BAE Systems North America, a newly organizM S5 billion 

cotaprise IIIII top tt.o supplier to DOD. Respoosibilities include !lrllegic 

deYelopmeot ofBAE's 1egjslative prognm, iocludiDg keep-sold IIIII budget increase 

efforts; IIIII overall coordinetioo of public alliUs IIIII stakeholder COIJllllllllications 

IOd sUI!egies. 

VICE PRESIDENT, PUBIJC AFFAIRs 

BAI SYSTIMS Nashua, NH, Jllllll)' 2001 to Jaollll)' 2003 

Responsible for pillic aftiirs activities for a S1.2 billioo advanced technology 

coocem IIIII the largest employer in New Hampshire. Gtew reseed~ program funding 

year-o\'el year, implemeoled IIUll1«<US !lrllegic initiatives 'Mlich llllleriaiJy improved 

BAE Systems' competitive position (recogolzed wi1h two Cbailmao's Awards). 

DIRECTOR, PUBIJC AffAIRS 

SANDERS, LOCKHEED MARTIN Nashua, NH 

Felxualy 1997 to JaoUII)' 2001 

Responsible for~ IIIII COIJllllllllity relalioos for Lockheed advanced 

techoology cotaprise blown as Smlers. Iocmlsed programmatic IOd research 

funding year-o\'el-year. Eslabli.shed or restored support for key classified pprograms, 

eaabling pnxha:tioo phase and support to the Wllfigbla'. 

MANAGER, GOVERNMENT ULATIONS 

LOCKBEilD SANDERS Nashua, NH 

Apri11993 to Febnwy 1997 

Responsible for fedtzal and stale govemmen1 rdalioua, spe!:ifically execution of 

research m! pogrllllliDIIic fundiJJg strategies. lneleased prog!8DIIDIIic 8DC research 

dollars in each yet~~, IIIII restored ftmdiog to several critical programs, eoabling lipid 

deploymem to the warfigbler. 

PROf!SSIONALSTAFFMEMBER,UNITEDSTAmSENATE 

COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMINTAL AffAIRS Washington, DC 

April1987 to JIDUII)' 1993 

Primaly minority professional sta1&r on the Subcommittee on GovemmeDt 

Joformatioo and Regulalioo, responsible for the legjslalive operalioos oftbe 

Subcomminee. Key adivities include oversight and autborizalion of Office of 

.. 
75 


71817038.eps

~ ProalaDall Policy, OMB (OIRA~ ICdldogy tnl:lsli:r IDII erpcn coa1101s. 

Elhia iD Gotanmeot Ad., iDdepeadad C(Qitd stlbie, mi.~ Eme!p:y 

MmlgaDr:lt AdmiDislnlioa. Primy Rudma Iliff to Pamam &lbcommitiCIC 011 

lnw:stiplioos. Respoosible for~ ep;y ~for SObcommitlee 

RaDkiDg Member Seaaor Wamo Rudmm. 

STAFF ASSISTANT 

US SENATOR WARREN RUDMAN 

Maocbesler, 

~ 

NH A1J81111l986 to Api11987 Respomible for fedml cue busiDess QlGUI1UIIity oubadl mi. support. aod u.s. Acldemy 

IIOIIIiulllioojiOtCSS. 

l.l.GJSLA 11VI CORRISPONDII'n' 

US SENATOR GORDON IIUMPIIUY 

Wasbillgloo DC, Allp 1985 to Ja.y 1986 

Rapoosible for au read!IDII COIISiilueal ccrtespoodeul::e. 

Gmra.t~ 

List my apcrimce in or dilec:t ISIOCWioll with Federal, Stm, or loCI! aowmmeou, 

iocludiDg ay IIMJoty, consWIItiYe, booorlty or other Jill! time leiVice or potitioos. 

Goveruat a:pcrialce: List ay experience in or dilec:t usocillioo with Federal, Stm, or local governments, 

iDcludiDg rtl'J tdvboly, coasuhlliw, boomry or Olher Jill! time se:vice or posilicDS. 

S.pmielse~~Gy(llltft) ferJ.-.Jterrice(U.S.Saue ...... ) 

tJNIVERSlTY SYS'IIM or NIW IIAM!SBJRI, r,.. Gllbc!ttMorill 

~ Appoitlecl by Gow:mor Cnia Batsoo, 2002, reappoiDied by Gow:mor 

Lyucb. 2006. 

MeAUIJm.SIIEPARD DISCOVIR.Y CENI'ERIPLANETARIUM, 

C. bilwT. Appoitlled by Gow:mor Steve Merrill, 1998. 

Pttlllllllecl Wrililp: Ust the titlea, pub&bers mi. dlles of boob, articles, reports or otber publlJhed llllleria1s 

you have written. 

Op-Ed,~ Unioo !..elder: "It's TIIIIC to RamriSCII Slli1f December 

2009 

Op-Ed~ Ulioo u.lt.r • I 11112012 "'ttlma's Rhcbica1 Trick" 

Op-Ed MlzdJeller lhlioo u.lt.r • 6fJJ16- "BBIIDciDg the &d&et in 3 Easy Slqls" 

Polldal Alllillllu .Uietlriliel: Ust membership~ mi. offices bdd iniDII smices raxlcRd to all poli1ical 

paties or electioo c:ommitlees duriDg the Jut 10 years. 
76 


71817039.eps

Political 

Contributions: 

Qualifications: 

Future employment 

CANDIDATE, US Congress, First District NH 2016 and 2010 

Contended for Republican nomination to US Congress; in 2016, lost by 1% to 

incumbent; received endorsement of every major newspaper in district and leading 

political figures. 

DELEGATE, REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION AND PLATFORM 

COMMITTEE MEMBERNH PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY- GOP ACTIVIST 

Hosted Candidate "House Party Meet and Greets" for undecided voters in our home. 

Candidates featured: 

2016 Gov. Jeb Bush, Sen. Lindsey Graham, Carly Fiorina, Gov. Chris Christie, Gov. 

John Kosich, 

2008 Mitt Romney 

1988 Bob Dole 

Inside A New Hamoshire Primary House Pany for Chris Christie ... 

http I/Www nor.org/1015111/fW458470684/presidur/iQ/oCJllldidQits stiii.JikN~ 

IWtJ! 

Itemize all political contributions ofSSOO or more to any individW!~ campaign 

organization, political party, political action commiuee or similar entity during the last 

eight years and identify specific amounts, dates, and names of re~:ipients. 

1/6108 NHGOP Sl2SO 

3124108 Mike McCaul, Congress ssoo 

613/08 Susan Collins for Senate ssoo 

811108 Jeb Bradley, Congress SIOOO 

9/21/08 John E. Sununu, Senate SIOOO 

6124109 NHGOP ssoo 

5/31/12 NHGOP 82000 

4/25/13 Darrell Issa, Congress ssoo 

State fully your qualifications to serve in the position to which you have been named. 

(attach sheet) 

Attached 

relationships: !.Indicate whether you will sever all connections with your present employer, business 

finn, association or organi7.ation if you are confinned by the Senate. 

Yes, I hereby commit to severing all sueh connections. 
77 


71817040.eps

l Al fir as can be baeeo, Sllle wlledler JOO have Ill'/ pia Iller compldiJig 

JM:IIIIIICd saviee to l'eiUIIII employmeat, af!ililtiua or padice JOO're )'OOr jmicus 

earpio)'er, IMsiDess film, IDOcilticll or Olplli2llilll. 

3. Has mybocly IDidc you a commitmezi to a job Iller you leave goYeiDIIIat? 

Nt _. COIIIlllia-U 11m ._llldt. 

Yee 
78 


71817041.eps

Poteatial eoaftidl 

of mlenlt: I. Describe any fiJllllcial ammgane111s or defemd compeosalioo agreaneo1S or other 

continuins dealings witb business associates, c1ieds or customers wbo will be 

affecltd by policies which you will illlluence in the posi1ioll to which you have been 

nomiDated. 

2. List tllrf investmais, obligatioos, liabilities, or other rdatiouships that migbt invoM 

poleolial coof1icls ofinltmt with the position to wbidl you have been uominaled. 

Ill collllediH with the Hllliaalila pneas, I 1Im COIIIUitecl with the OlfJce of 

Goftruleat F41a lllld eCblc:t ollidall at the Departmeat of Commerce to ldatlfy 

poCalial coaflids of iDterelt. Alrf ptCallial COIIflietl of IDtenat will be reeol¥ed ia 

aeconl.-with die tams of the etbit1 ~ t11at I 11m mtend mto rill the 

Departmmt of C0111111erce u d tllat 1w beat pmlded to tbll COIIIllllltee. I am ~ 

IIWift of aJI.1 odler poteotilll COIIf1icU of iaterat. 

3. Describe tllrf bosines1 relltioosbip, dealiDg or finencialtiiDSICiioo (oCher 1han tax 

payiog) wbicll you have bad during the last I 0 yem with the Fedaal Oovcmmeot, 

whtlber for~ on bdWf of a client, or acting as an ageut, that might in any 

way coostitute or result in a possible conflict of interest witb tbe position to which you 

have been nominated. 

Ill coDDedioD witb the aOIIiaadot ...-, I han eeudted wi6 the Otfice of 

Gmnulllllt Etbles ud eCblc:t lflidlll at the Departmmt of c-to ldeiltify 

potl!lldal cellllldltf IDteMt. Ally potl!llda1 CODllets of intenat will be molved II 

aecorclur.e with the tams of the dllla agncmeot tllat I have mtered IDto wi6 the 

Departmeat of Commerce and tllat 1w belli pmided to WI Ctllllllittee. I .. DOt 

aware tf aJI.1 oilier potl!lltial caatliell of interest. 

4. List tllrf lobbying activity during tbe past ten yeas in which you have engaged in for the 

purpose of diRdly or ~ iDflucncing the passage, defeat or moc1ificalioo of any 

legislation at the oatiooal le\'d of government or affecliDg tbe admiaistlllioo and 

execution of neOooallaw or public policy. 

I lobbied the federal pvetllmlllt OD behalf of llAl Systems fro11 2e0'7·2010. I 

IoWrie~! iD the follolriDg 111bject areu: del-, latellipace, ud boaaelaDd ICt1lrity 

aatlltriatitlla lllld appropriatiou. I wu recirfered • behalf of the COIIIplll)' IDd 

11y activities were filed as appropriate uder the Lobbying Dildolll'e Act 

S. Explain bow you will resolve any conflict of interest that IllY be disclosed by your 

respooses to tbe ila!ls above. 

Ill coiWCtioe with the IIOIIIlDatiea p-, I have COIII1I1ted witb the Ofllce of 

Gmnuamt EWes aacl edlles otlldals at the DepartiDeat of c-eree to ideDdfy 
79 


71817042.eps

)IOteltW CIIIGidl tl..._ AaJ piiSiiJ adldl tlilleratwll w......,. Ill 

_._ • ., ... .,.,16b ........ l ............. ., DeplrtiMit ole.-.. tlllt lilt.,_ pmiW II 611 c.m.iltee. I liD 11M 

awm or ar ...., poCallill Clldlda o1 111t1ntt 

I. Gi't'e tile full der1ils of rttt civil or aimiDII jiiOCeediDa iD which 1011 were a debiiDI 

or fll1 iDquily or iaYelliplicD by a Fedl:nl, s-, or IOCII~FDCY iD which )'011 were tile 

~of tile iDquily or imesliptioa. 

2. Gi't'e tile full dellils of rttt proceediJ& iDquiry or iDYeStiptioo by lilY pofeaiooal 

usocillion iDcludina any bar IS!Ocialion in wbidl you were die subject oftl!e prooeeding. 

inqlliryor~ 

nenan9 
80 


71817043.eps

Confidential Finaaeial StateDJeDt 

Net Worth 

Provide a complete, =t fiDiacial oet worth sta1eme11t which itemizes in ddail all assets (mcludiDg 

beak acrounts, real es1ate, securities, 11us11, investJnenb, aod other liD1mcial bo~) all liabilities (mcluding 

debcs, mortgtges, lolms, aod other liD1mcial obligalioDs) of)OO!Se~ your spoose, aod otbCr immedille 1111:111ben 

ofyoll' household. SEE A1TACIIMENI' 

10 
81 


71817044.eps

SOURCES OF INCOME LAST 3YEARS 

I. Liii~C~U~Calld ~of all iaccme reoeiwd clllriDc tbe 11113 yem, iacludiQa all Allries, fees, 

dlvideDdl, illerlll, sifts, Jed!, roydiel. J*llll, hooollria, llld alher • cxceedils $SOO or more. (d>W prefer to do so, copies of U.S. iDcoM Ill I'IOiml b IMie)WS Ill)' be llllillilllled llat, bul their 

lllllmialoa is liCit required.) 

2. Lislums,IIICUIIIsllld clllrsofallllllicipllcd IICdpU b defined iDcome .......... 

-.plded caallll::tslldc6ctfilbft bclefilsfta )'011 apldloderift ioat pmo. --~ 

~JI!Yices lid b.-blalips or ita bar~ diaa, ~~~~~~ 

11 
82 


71817045.eps

S'I'ATBM.EHT OF QUAIJFICATIONS 

ASSIS'I'ANT SECREJ'ARY OF COMMERCE, EXPORT ADM!NISTRAITON 

RICHARD ASHOOH, NOMINBB 

The opportunity to serve In this role is not only a distinct honor, but also a 

chance to leverage a career of experience in this arena for the benefit of our 

natioo,lts security, and prosperity. HaYing worked In government. business, 

and higher educatioo,l bring a range of experiences and lessons that will 

DOt Only empower the effective execution of this office, but also. a fresh 

perspective that will lend Itself well to discovering Improvements and 

enhancements In how the government can meet the needs of its exporters. 

hi specific, there are three areas In which I am uniquely qualified for this 

role. These areas, further discussed below, are: SafeguardiDg our National 

Security, Understalldlq and BDabHng Advanced Technology, and . 

Maaagemeat 1broagh Leadership. 

1. Safegaardblc our National Seaoity. For most of my career, I have 

been working to achieve U.S. technological superiority while maintaining 

the strictest of secrecy to protect that advantage. As a professional staffer to 

the (then) Senate Committee on Government Affairs (and In particular the 

Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations), I was proud to support the 

focus of the Committee's work on the risks of technology transfer, both 

inadvertent and intentional. to adversary nations - at that Ume, primarily 

the Soviet Union and China. This effort Involved vigorous oversight of our 

export policies and enabled valuable experiences for me as a regulator of 

these policies at a geopolitically critical time In our nation. 

In the private sector, my position shifted, In export administration terms, 

from "regulator" to "regulated'. My efforts for more than 20 years to 

support the development of the world's most advanced electronic warfare 

technology required the utmost fidelity to national security, while enabling 

the growth of important employers and manufacturers. Navigating the 

federal export regime was a critically important enabler of our success as an 

enterprise, just as It Is for companies today. 

Among the key responslbUities under the ASC(EA) role to which I've been 

nominated Includes the Office of National Security and Technology Transfer 

Controls. My 'long and deep familiarity with technological threats to our 
83 


71817046.eps

national security, garnered via years of producing t!chnology to counter 

such threats, is a key quallllcatlon for this position. 

2. Understallding and EllabliDg Advanced Technology. There has 

been an incredible shift In the dynamic underlying the advancement of 

technologies that support our national security. Prior to a decade ago, the 

military establishment was the undisputed leader in developing advanced 

technologies, and the commerdal sector lagged. Now, that "leader-follower" 

dynamic has lllpped and tbe vast commercial investments in tedmologies of 

.a "dual·use" nature, by and large, are far outstripping government 

investments. This requires Commerce's Bureau oflndustly and Security, 

which has jurisdiction over dual·use exports, to retain an understanding of 

the national ~ty implications of commercial technology. The statistics, 

66% Increases in dual· use exports-and collCIUTent enforcement actionsreflect this trenil. I have spent a career worlcing in this dynamic and believe 

It Is among my strongest attributes to bring to the role to whk:h I have been 

nominated. 

As an industly executive, key to my responsibilities was the shepherding of 

government and Industry funded technology development from Inception 

to deployment As !mer of my company's homeland security Initiative in 

the wake of 9/11, the role shifted to transferring technology from the 

defense realm to dvll applications. Finally, as a company strategist. my goal 

was to apply these technologies to the commerdal world. These qualities 

are particularly relevant to the cballenges facing BIS today. 

3. Managemeat 'l1lrougb Leadershlp. Operating successfully within 

any large, complex human Institution, including and especially a feder'al 

agency like BlS, requires management skills. I have been fortunate, after 

decades of experience in the corporate, government, and academic sector, 

to attain these skills through training and trial. While I have bad the 

opportunity to learn from incredible leaders, I have also learned from poor 

ones. Every management experience - whether triumphant or tragic- has 

been for me a formative part of the leadership traits I will bring to the 

Department The areas where I have boned these skills - business, 

government, and academia. are all different and challenging In their own 

way. Knowing these differences and applying these skills appropriately sets 

leaders apart from managers, and Is best learned experientially. This Is 

exactly what I will bring to the Department 
84 

PREPARED STATEMENT OF ELIZABETH ERIN WALSH 

TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR GLOBAL MARKETS AND DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE

UNITED STATES AND FOREIGN COMMERCIAL SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

JULY 18, 2017 

Thank you Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member Senator Brown, Members of the 

Banking Committee. I am grateful for the opportunity to appear before you today. 

I am very honored to be here as the President Trump’s nominee for Assistant Secretary for Global Markets and D.G. for the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service. 

And I am so honored to have my family with me on this special day. If you don’t 

mind, I would like to take a moment to introduce them. My mother, June and my 

father Michael a retired attorney—they both served in the Reagan and Bush administrations. My sister Molly, currently serving at the Department of Defense and my 

beloved sister Anne. While my parents met in Washington, we grew up in Portland 

Oregon. 

I bring to this nomination over 30 years of public and private sector experience. 

During this time, I have built a strong track record in four key areas: Strategy and 

Program Development for market entry/expansion, political and/or policy advancement; Design-Build Scalable Models to promote products or programs regionally or 

globally; Complex Negotiations; and Public-Private Partnership Creation at local, national and international levels. I have extensive knowledge of foreign affairs in Asia, 

Middle East, and Africa and have traveled or worked in 100 countries. 

I earned my undergraduate work at Georgetown University and started as an intern for 3 years at the White House before landing a full-time position in the Office 

of Political Affairs. I also worked at the Department of Energy, and from there had 

the opportunity to join the U.S. Department of State and serve as the Deputy Manager and then acting Manager of Blair House, the President’s guest house. During 

my tenure there, we hosted over 60 heads of State and Governments. I was then 

asked by Ambassador Thomas Pickering to come to the U.S. Mission to the U.N. 

and serve as Chief of Protocol. It was an incredible 5 years in the world’s largest 

diplomatic community. But starting in 1992 I started to see cables come across my 

desk that seemed unimaginable. Particularly after witnessing the revolutionary fall 

of the Berlin wall in 1989 and the euphoria that came with it. These cables referred 

to the conflict in Bosnia. As I continued to read the news and the cables I felt I 

had to go to see for myself. I resigned my position at USUN to join UNICEF as 

head of emergency operations in Tuzla during in 1994. I later left Bosnia to attend 

graduate school at the London School of Economics and then returned to Sarajevo 

to work with the U.N. as an Economic and Political Affairs Officer. In preparing for 

post war conflict operations, there was an enormous gap in the lack of focus on economic development and investment. Over 20 years later, we can see the outcome 

and results today. No economic development, high unemployment and the presence 

of ISIS in Europe. 

After returning from Bosnia, I came home and wrote a proposal focused on Education, Technology and job creation and got an offer from Cisco. The firm provided 

a platform allowing me to build a strong partnership organization to bring the Cisco 

Networking Academy Program to 90 countries, in Africa, Asia Pacific, central America and included 41 of the Least Developed Countries in the world. In the late 1990s 

we began to strong Chinese investment in these areas. Times were changing and 

so was the playing field. 

After several years in the private sector, I returned to the State Department in 

2005 to serve as Senior Advisor in the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs. I was recruited to formulate and execute a strategic plan to advance U.S. policy interests, 

strengthen alliances and establish and/or expand programs focused on women across 

16 countries in the Middle East and North Africa. I also served on the U.S.-Saudi 

Arabia Strategic Dialogue, Human Development Working Group. 

I was then hired by Goldman Sachs to lead the firm’s philanthropic activities in 

Asia Pacific. I developed a long-term strategic platform in Asia, seeking to foster 

economic growth and opportunity, through investment in the community, public engagement and partnership building. I incorporated global Goldman Sachs Foundation programs and Goldman Sachs Gives, and created a portfolio of multi-year, regional and country specific programs aligned with the firms focus and the economic/ 

development goals of 11 countries where investments had been made. Major programs included: Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women Initiative (40 percent of women from 

Asia); China Breast Cancer Initiative. 

From what I have seen first-hand the role that the private sector can play in facilitating and enhancing America’s prominence abroad and in advancing U.S. 

values. 

85 

I know the critical role the U.S. Government plays in leveling the playing field 

to ensure U.S. companies can compete abroad, and to ensure that our foreign competitors abide by their commitments and play by the same rules. 

I have also seen what happens when U.S. policy is not carried out or implement 

in a way that facilitates business. 

I am passionate about the mission of the Department of Commerce and can think 

of nothing more meaningful or impactful than creating jobs through promoting U.S. 

exports or attracting foreign direct investment into the United States. In addition, 

I believe the direction that Secretary Ross is taking to ensure we have fair and reciprocal trade with our partners will ensure America’s continued growth and vitality. 

I am deeply grateful to President Trump and Secretary Ross for their leadership. 

I am honored to be nominated by the President and am grateful to the Secretary 

for his confidence and support. 

In the past couple of weeks, I have had the opportunity to meet with a number 

of the dedicated civil servants and foreign commercial officers who constitute the 

leadership of the International Trade Administration’s Global Markets, and the U.S. 

Foreign Commercial Service, and I find in them a kindred spirit, one that is driven 

to help American companies succeed. Because they share my belief that there is 

nothing more meaningful or powerful than helping to create jobs that put people 

to work. Trade, exports and FDI are a powerful engine for economic growth. With 

95 percent of the world’ population outside of the United States and more than 1 

in 5 American jobs supported by trade, the Office of Global Markets has a critical 

role to play. Last year alone, for every $1 appropriated to Global Markets, an estimated $192 was returned to the American economy in the form of increased exports 

and foreign direct investments for a total impact of $62.2 billion, which supported 

approximately 300,000 U.S. jobs. 

If confirmed I look forward to having the opportunity to lead this organization, 

and will bring to it my global experience and business background as well as my 

knowledge of how to leverage Government resources to ensure its efficiency and effectiveness. Thank you for your time today and for your consideration of my nomination. 

86 


71817047.eps

STATEMENT FOR COMPLETION BY PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEES 

Name: 

Walsll Eliza belli Erin 

Positloa to whidl aomiaated: Assislaat Secrelary for Global Markels aad Director Geaeral or tile 

US aad Foreigll Commercial Service 

Date of aomiaalioa: Jwae 6,2017 

Date orbi1h: 12/1811961 Place or birth: Portlaad, Oregoo, USA 

Marital Statas: Single 

Name aad ages of clllldna: 

FIIU aame of spouse: 

Edacalioa: Dates 

Institutioa atteaded 

London School rA Ecooomics and Pditical Science 911994-5/1996 

Georgetown UnlwMUy 811980-511983 

Univenity of Southern California 911979-511980 

Degrees Datesof 

received degrees 

Masters of Science 9/1995 

Bacllelor of Arts 5/1983 one year 

Hoaon 

aad awards: 

Ust below aU sc:bobusbips, fellowships, hoao181)' degrees, military medals, bono181)' 

society memberships aad any other special recognitions for outstaJiding service or 

achievement. 
87 


71817048.eps

Membenhips: List below all membernups and offices held in professional, fraternal, business, scholarly, 

civic, charitable and other organizations. 

Organization Office held (if any) 

Council on Foreign Relations 

King Hussein Cancer Foundation, USA 

Sulgrave Club, Washington, DC 

Dates 

Since2015 

Since2010 

Since2007 

Employment reeord: List below all positions held since college, including the title or description of job, name 

of employment, location of work, and inclusive dates of employment. 

u.s. Department of CommeJCe. Washi~on. DC (6117-present) 

Seni« Advisor. 0/b of the Sectulary 

The Wb!te House· Washington, DC (1117-6/17) 

Spedal Assistant to the President and Associate Director for PresiJenUa/ Personnel, FOf8~n Affairs 

T!!!mp for Aln•riea !ne. Washington, DC 

Ccrlead of the State Department transition and landing team (11116-1/117) 

Donald J. Trump for Pr!sldenllnc. Washington., DC 

Lead for/he Shlle Dep8ffment(8116-11116) 

Goklffi~.n Sacht. Washington, Beijing, Hong Kong, China 

Executive Director. Head oftlre Offlce of CIJrporate Engagement 1Wa Pacilic (511~15) 

led the firm's philanthropic activities in Asia Pacific. Developed a long-tenn strategic platform in Asia, seeking to foster 

economic growth and opportunity, through investment in the eornmunily, pubi'IC engagement and partnership building. 

U.S. Deea!lrn&nt of Slate, Washington, DC 

Senior ArMw, Bureau of Near Eastem Affairs (5105-5108) 

Recruited to formulate and execute a strategic plan to advance US policy ill11!rests, strengthen alliances and establish 

and!« expand programs focused on women across 16 countries in the Middle East and ~ Africa 

Cisco System!, IQC .. Washington. DC and San Jose, CA 

Senior Manager, lntemalional Strategies and Par1nefships, Corporate Affairs (~J 

&lilt a nliJ!tknillion dollar pubtJc.private partnership organization at Cisco. Brought together strategic partners to de!ivel 

the Cisoo Nel'Mllking Academy Program to 90 developing and emerging marl<.et oountlies around the globe. Produced a 

~m that successfully fused mufti.stakellolder inlerests, integrated sound business practices and promoted procompetitive policies and regulatoly reform. 

UnHed Nations Mission, Sarajevo, Bosnia-Heaegovina 

Eoonomic and Political Affairs Offlcer(11195·10196) 

EeonOfnic advisor to Chiel of UN Civil Affairs. 

UNICEF, Tuzla, Bosnia-Hmegovina 
88 


71817049.eps

Head of Offioe (4194-9194) 

Oireded UNICEF's e~cy ope~atioos in the Tuzla region. 

United States Mission to the United Nations, New York, NY 

Chi&{ of PrOtocc/ (41894194) 

Directed and managed an effective Protoool Atlairs program based on US Foreign policy objectives. Organized a program 

which fostered positive relatioM with the other 184 member Slates of the UN. 

U.S. Dtpartment of State, Washilgtlln, DC 

Depuly to lhe Assistant Chief of Protocol for Ceremonials (6188-1189) 

Blair House. tile P!e!ldent't Glie!t House Wash.lngtoll, DC 

Ass/slant Manager and Acting Manager (9185-6188) 

U.S. DeRirtm!!lt of E!l!!!!Y. Washington, DC 

Legislative Affairs SpeQaJist (2185-8/85) 

Prealdtnt!allnauaura! Commillee, Washington, DC 

Assistant to the Director of Events and Inaugural bats (12184·2185) 

Reagan-Bush '84. Washington, DC 

Administrative Assistant to the Cat7f1a{gn Dilector (10183-11184) 

The Whb House, Washington, DC 

Staff Assistant-Offioe of I'>Jiilical Affairs (4183-10183) 

Govel'lllllent 

experience: List any experience in or direct association with Federal, State, or local governments, 

including any advisory, consultative, honorary or other part time service or positions. 

U.S. Department of Commerce, Washinglon, DC (6/17-present) 

Sanior Advisor, Office of the Seaelary 

The While Houae, Washington, DC (1/17-6/17) 

Special Assistsnt to the Prssident and Associate Director for Ple$idenliaf Personnel, FOJeign Affairs 

TNmp fQ! Al!)erica lne, Washilgton, DC 

CO-lead of the State Deparlmeflt transition and tanding team (11/16-1//17) 

Donald J. TNmp for President. lne. Washington, DC 

Lead for the State Department (8116-11/16) 

U.S. DJDJrtment of State. Washington, DC 

Senklt Advisor, Bureau of NeBI Eastern Affairs (s.llS-5108) 

Reet~~ ted to formulate and execute a strategic plan to advance US policy interests, strengtllen alliances and establish 

and/or expand programs focused on women across 16 countries in the Middle East and North. Africa. 

United States Mission to lhe Ufti!ed Nations New York, NY 

Chief of Prot® (4f8S.4194) 

Directed and managed an ellective Protocol Affairs program based on US Fe~eign policy objectives. Organized a program 

which fostered positive relations with the other 184 member states of the UN. 

us Department of State Washinglon, DC 

Depaty to the Assistant Chief of Prot® for Ceremonials (6/88-4189) 

Blal1 House. the PNSident's Guest House Washington, DC 
89 


71817050.eps

Assistant Manager and Ading Manager (9185-6188) 

US Dep!!!ment of Energy, Washington, DC 

Legis/afivfl Affairs Specialist (2J8S.&'85) 

Pres!den!laiiRIUgU!JI Com!nlt1ee. WashingiOn, DC 

Ass/$/ant to tfl& Ditedor of Ewnts and 111augura/ balls (12184-2185) 

Rewn-Busl! '84, Washington, DC 

AdminlstraM AsslsJant to tfl& C8mpalgn Dlredor (10183-11184) 

Tile Willie H0111t, Washington, DC 

Staff Assistant- OfFc6 of Po/mtal Affairs (4183-10183) 

Pub lis bed 

Writlep: 

· PoUtical 

Afliliatioas 

aad aetivitics: 

Political 

List the titles, publishers and dates of books, articles, reports or other published materials 

you have written. 

None 

List memberships and offices held in and services rendered to all political parties or 

el~tion committees during the last l 0 years. 

Donald J. Trump for Pmident. loc, Washilg100, DC 

Full lime volunteer. Lead forth& State Department (8116-11116) 

ContribatioDs: Itemize all political contributions of$500 or more to any individual, campaign 

organization, political party, political action committee or similar eutity during the last 

eight years and identi!y specific amounts, dates, and names of recipients. 

s 500 2008 

$1,000 2012 

$1,000 2012 

$1,000 2015 

JobnMeCain 

Romney Victory, Inc. 

Romney/Ryan 

Right to Rise PAC 

Qualificatioas: State fully your qualifications to serve in the position to which you have been named. 

I have extensive professional experience running operations of large international firms, having worked 

for five years as Vice President and Head of the Office of Corporate Engagement for Asia Pacific for 

Goldman Sachs and seven years at Cisco as Senior Manager of International Strategies and 

Partnerships. I have also served mote than twelve years in the US Governnta1t at the White House, 

State Department and Department of Energy as weU as at the United Nations. I have developed major 

programs in more than one hundred countries across the globe, managed budgets of over S80m and, 

managed globally dispersed, culturally diverse teams. Working and living overseas bas given me insight 

into the challenges that American companies face in ellporting th~r products to global mazkets. I 

understand the requirement that the United States maintain a strong diplomatic presence in the markets 

in which American businesses operate. 

4 
90 


71817051.eps

Future tt~~ployment 

relatioaships: I. Indicate whether you mil sever all COMections mth your present emplo}er, business 

fum, association or organization if you are confirmed by the Senate. 

Potential conflicts 

of interest: 

Yes 

2. As far as can be foreseen, state wbether you have any plans after oompleling 

government service to resume employment, affiliation or practice mth your previous 

employer, business finn, association or cnganization. 

No 

3. Has anybody made you a commitment to a job after you.Jeave govemmeot? 

No 

4. Do you expect to serve the full term for which you have been appointed? 

Yes 

I. Describe any financial arrangements or deferred compensation agreements or other 

continuing dealings mlh business associates, clients or customers who mU be 

affected by policies which you mil influence in lhe position to which you have been 

nominated. 

None mth respect to business associates, clients or customers. However, 

information about my Ietirement accounts is included on the public fin.mcial 

disclosure report I filed and to which I understand you have access. 

2. List any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other ~tlationsbips which night involve 

potential conflicts of interest mth the position to which you have been nominated. 

In COMection mth the nomination process, I have consulted mth the Office of 

Government Ethics and Department of Commerce agency ethics officials to identify 

any potential conflicts of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest mil be resolved 

in accordance mth the terms of my ethics agreement. I understand that my ethics 

agreement bas been provided to the Committee.! am not aware of any potential 

conflict of interest other than those that are the subject of my ethics agreement 

3. Describe any business relationship, deali!Jg or financial transaction (other than tax 

paying) which you have had during the last I 0 years mth the Federal Governmen~ 

wbetl1er for yow-sel~ on behalf of a clil:lll, or acting as an agent, that might in any 

way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest mth the position to which 

you have been nominated. 

None 
91 


71817052.eps

Civil, aimiul and 

iavestigatory 

actions: 

4. List any lobbying activity during the past ten yta!S in which you have engaged in for the 

purpose of diredly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat or modification of 

any legislation at the national level of government or affecting the administration and 

execution of national law or public policy. 

None 

5. Explain how you will resolve any conflict of interest that may be disclosed by your 

responses to the items above. 

Any potential conflicts of interest will be resolved in accordance with the terms of 

my ethics agreement. I undetStand that my ethics agreement has been provided to 

the Committee. I am not aware of any potential conflict of interest other than those 

that are the subject of my ethics agreement. · 

I. Give the full derails of any civil or criminal proceeding in which you were a defendant 

or any inquiry or investigation by a Federal, State, or local agency in which you were the subject of the inquiry or investigation. 

None 

2. Give the full details of any proceeding, inquiry or investigation by any professional 

association including any bar association in which you were the subject of the 

proceeding, inquiry or investigation. 

None 
92 

PREPARED STATEMENT OF CHRISTOPHER CAMPBELL 

TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, DEPARTMENT OF THE

TREASURY

JULY 18, 2017 

Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member Brown, and distinguished Members of the 

Senate Banking Committee, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you 

today and for considering my nomination to be Assistant Secretary of the Treasury 

for Financial Institutions. I am deeply honored and humbled to have been selected 

for this position and am grateful to President Trump and Secretary Mnuchin for 

this opportunity to continue my career in public service in a different venue. 

Before I get too far into my statement, I do want to recognize the members of 

my family who are in attendance today. With me today are my sister Michelle, my 

brother-in-law Richard, my brother Eric and my sister Catherine. I also want to acknowledge my two other siblings that could not make it here today, my brothers 

Scot and Marc. My mother also would surely like to be here today, however she is 

too ill to travel. But, I know she is watching from home. While my father passed 

away a few short years ago, I know that he would have been proud to sit in today’s 

audience as well. I also want to acknowledge the many friends, colleagues, and 

former colleagues who are here, many of whom have flown in for the occasion. 

I want to thank every one of them for being here and for their love and support. 

One does not receive opportunities like this without years of help from many, many 

people, and that is certainly the case for me. 

I come from the humblest of beginnings. I lived most of my childhood in poverty, 

really never thinking that I would be afforded the opportunities that have been presented to me over the last two decades. 

The first great opportunity that came my way was the chance to join Senator 

Orrin Hatch’s campaign for President as the National Field Director. I think Senator Hatch would agree that, after that initial experience in politics and public service, there was nowhere to go but up. 

Despite the results of that particular campaign, the Senator asked me to run his 

2000 Senate reelection campaign. This was, to say the least, a lot of responsibility 

for a relatively inexperienced kid, but, thankfully, the campaign was a huge success 

and I have worked with Senator Hatch in a variety of capacities since that election, 

most recently as Staff Director for the Senate Finance Committee. 

I am, of course, grateful to Senator Hatch for his support and encouragement over 

these many years. He has been a mentor to me and I certainly would not be here 

if not for his skillful tutoring. 

During my time in the Senate, I have worked very hard to cultivate a reputation 

for three things. 

First and foremost, I have sought to be known as an effective advocate and strategist for achieving the goals of my employer, whether it is the Senator or the Committee. 

Second, I have worked to be known as one who prefers and effectively facilitates 

bipartisan cooperation. Throughout my career, I have begun every effort with the 

presumption that a bipartisan result would be preferable and more enduring than 

a partisan one, and have worked to achieve those types of outcomes. 

Finally, I have endeavored to build a reputation for being a good manager and 

leader. On the Finance Committee, Chairman Hatch and I have put together an effective and professional staff. Leading this team has been one of my proudest professional achievements. 

Our committee has the broadest jurisdiction of any in Congress, encompassing 

every page and word of the tax code, all major Federal health programs, huge portions of the social safety net, including Social Security, and our Nation’s trade policy. Overseeing the Republican efforts on the committee has required not only policy 

knowledge and experience, but also the ability to manage different people with varying skillsets and expertise. 

And, I believe we’ve been successful. In the last Congress alone, the Finance Committee reported a record number of bills—several dozen in fact—all of them bipartisan. And, the vast majority of those bills were eventually signed into law. 

I can’t take credit for everything the Finance Committee has accomplished while 

I’ve been there. The credit belongs to Chairman Hatch, Ranking Member Wyden, 

and Senator Baucus, who was chairman when I first started there, and all of the 

Members on both sides of the dais. 

But, once again, during my time on the committee—and throughout all my time 

in the Senate—I have sought to leave a mark and build a reputation for being an 

effective advocate, a bipartisan facilitator, and a strong leader. 

93 

Chairman Crapo, Ranking Member Brown, I have had to privilege to work closely 

with both of you, as well as with many other Members of this Committee. As you 

consider my nomination, my hope is that my efforts to build that kind of reputation 

have been successful and that I have displayed to you those types of characteristics. 

The Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Financial Institutions is responsible 

for leading Treasury’s efforts to monitor and regulate our Nation’s banks and securities markets and to ensure our financial sector is resilient in times of crisis. In addition, it is responsible for coordinating, among other things, Treasury’s work on financial education, consumer protection, community development, affordable housing, and cybersecurity. 

In other words, the position has a broad focus, dealing with our largest banks and 

investment companies as well as small community organizations. This is not unlike 

the broad jurisdiction of the Senate Finance Committee. Successful leadership from 

this position will require great management skills and the help of the talented career staff at the department. In addition, it will require the ability to balance what 

are, at times, competing interests of financial institutions—large and small—their 

customers and practices, and the American taxpayers. I believe that my experience 

has prepared me well for this position. 

I think it’s safe to say that few, if any, nominees considered by this Committee 

have ever been more cognizant of the need for cooperation between Congress and 

agencies in the executive branch. If confirmed, I will look forward to working with 

the Members of this Committee to ensure safety and soundness of financial institutions and practices, fairness, and avenues through which the financial sector works 

to facilitate economic growth and opportunities for all Americans. 

Distinguished Members of the Committee, thank you for consideration of my nomination and I look forward to answering your questions. 

94 


71817053.eps

STATEMENT FOR COMPLETION BY PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEES 

Na11t: 

Position to wb.ldt DOllluted: Asslstaat Secretary ofTttamy for F'IIIMitl !Witutlou 

Dateof aOIIIiaJiioa: 2&'0612017 

Date or birth: IIIWI975 Platt of birth: Rtcllaads, CA 

(DIJI Wood~) (Year) 

Marital StallS: Siap 

Namt aad ages of tbildru: Noae 

Eduatioa: 

Hoaors 

Dates 

attended 

Degrees 

received 

Dates of 

dtgJt:es 

aad awards: 

Li!l below all sdlolanhips, fellowships. honorary degrees, militasy medals, honorary 

society memberships and any other special recognitions for outslaading service or 

acbievemeot. 

List below all mcmbersbips and oflites bdd in professioaal, htmal, business, 

scholarly, chit, tbaritable and other organiurions. 

- Employmeut rte:onl: Ust below all positions held since college, including the titlt or description of job, namt 

of employmeol, location of WOit, lllld inclusive dates of employment 

~United Stales SeNie Flnance Committee 

Iills Stall OWedof 

OescripC!on of Job; Responsi)la lot~ and managilg the Reptbbn Senate Fnanc:e Camiitlee's sial and IIQenda. 

Jslm Washi1gton, oc 

lllllt 2011 -Ptesenl 

Glllll!iMt Ulild SIIIIS Senator Onil G. Hath !It l.lgisli!M Oiecb" 

Dnom!tion of Job; Responsible lor c:cotdinaling and managilg !he Sellatot' 1 entire legislaM agenda 
95 


71817054.eps

la!i!n Wa!lii1glon. DC 

DiltJ; 2006. 2010 

~Chris Campbel BushuConsultali IlltSole~IOr 

[)esg1li!!on ol Job; Respanslilt .. bus~*~ deYelopmert ~ sndegic ~ seMces, lnd ll'llnlgi1Q prtjecb lor a~ ol cien1s 

~Piioenix.AZ&Mngton. VA 

!alii; 2004. 2006 

~ IJnllld states Senile Ccmnllee on the Judiciary & Senate Ccmmlllee on F"cnance !lilt; Proles1ional S1afl & S1afl Olrectw, lntlmational T tade SUbcomlniUee 

~~DC 

llelgW!Ion of .1gb: Respcnsible b ~ ~ adYi:e lnd CCIJI'IMIID OlaiTnan On'il G. Hatll. 

!lila; 2000 • 2004 

fml!2lsr. On'il Hall .. u.s. Senile 

Ilk Campaign llireciOr 

Oesc/kJion of Job: Managed a Sial! and IIXOUntable for the design and inplementaticn ol SIXX:eSiful polbl and pWilc fl!!alilns mlegies 

~Salt Latt Ciy, UT 

Qi!u; 2000- 2000 

~ On'il Hall .. Presi:lenl 

Ik Ndonal F"•ld lliredDf 

Oesgj!!lion of Job: Responsiblt lor ptomoting Senator Hatch's pditical meuage aaosa Vle courdly 

J.R!im;~ 

!lila; 1999. 2000 

~Chris Caf1ICibell BusinessCoosubnt Dlt;Sde~ 

Dnajp!ion w Pll7lided naonal and~ busileu/p(llit.Qll oonsulli1g ~Long Beach, CA 

Qllu; 1998. 2000 

Gtven-t 

upericaee: List lilY expcrimce in or direa mociatioo with fedml, Slate, or local governmeot3, 

iocluding any advisoly, coosullative, hono!al)' or other part time service or positions. 

P.biisbed 

Writiap: 

PoliiXal 

Aftililtioa 

List 1be 1ides, publiftn and dates of books, articles, rqJOrts or other published materials 

you have wrinen. 

aod adMtia: List membenbips and offices held in and services mxleted 10 Ill political parties or 

electioo committees cbiJI& lhe last 10 )t3IS. 

8ft e~~ploymeat Ust 
96 


71817055.eps

Pelitical 

Coatrib11iou: Itemize aU poli1ical conlli'olltions ofSSOO cc more to aoy iDdividual, ampaign 

olpllizJiioa, potitical pllly, political action~ cc similar entity during the last 

eigbt yean and identify specific amoUIIIS, da:es, and names of recipients. 

f•tm wp!oJ-t 

None 

State fully your qualifications to setVe in the position to which you have been named. 

(anach sbeet) 

My ...tee w1111111d lor Chlkmaft Hlldl on inllnatlonll trldt llld 1111t11ra lmoloMQ tilt 

u.s.~.· ...... _..cltllteoun11111 • wholnwtdo~ 1111 

-.,. wt1. r 1111 conflnMcl. 111 llllldon. 1111

many biplrlllan pltca of ltg'-lltion 11111 later btclmt 

e!pllleftea 

11w 11M 

auccea~u11y 

g!Vtn me h 

~ 

-.y IOIIIIdlllon on wllleh to build upon and hive --.lui outcoat. If lam confirmtd,l 

expect 11115 l'oundiiJoa to IIIPPOfl me • I en1er Into and condudt delicate and high 

PI'IMurt ntgOCiltlont '*-" h Eucutlvt and ltgiiii!Welnnchtl ol tht lldtllll 

gcmrnmtftl. IIIIo expect II*, If contlnntd, lllllloundlllollwll dow me ID llll¥igatt 

wltllln Ill e-lM 8!wli Orgllliatlon, lltDt the ontlwlll find lit the DepMirntal of 

TIUIIIIJ. 

rdatioDships: !.Indicate whether you will sever all coonectioos with your jmelll employer, business 

firm, association or organization if you art confinned by the Senate. 

Yes. But, ifl am eoafirmed, aad due to tbe nalllre oftbe pGSIIioa I wiD OCCUp)',l 

wiD remi1 in coalltt wllb the memben of tbe relev111t com•ktea of die House 

u4 Senate u lssaes wamat 

2. As far as caa be f~ sute wbether you bave lilY plans after completing 

gD\tmmelll setVice to resume employment, affilialioG cc [ntlict with your pmiolls 

employer, business firm, association or Olplli%ltion. 

No. 

3. Has anybody made you a commibnent to a job after you leave government? 

No 

4. Do )'011 exp11.1 to suve the full term for \\ilicl! )'011 have been appointed? 
97 


71817056.eps

Potutial toallids 

or iattmt: I. Describe any financial lm.llgtllleniS or deferred compensation agJeements or other 

Civil, cri11iul1nd 

investiptory 

IdioM: 

cootinq dealin&s wid! busintss wociates, clicniS or CllSIOmm v.1lo will be 

affecttd by policies '1111icb )'011 will influence in tbe position to '1111icb you haYe betn 

oominaled. 

Noae 

2. List any inmtma~ts, oblipions.liabilities, or other reUtionWps 'll'hicl! llliibt iDYoll-e 

po~a~tial conflicts of iDielesl with the posilion to 'MUch you have betn nomi.-d 

None 

3. Describe any business rdltionship. dating or fmancial transaclion (otber than tax 

pl)'iD&} \\1licb you haYe bad cbing tbe last 10 )'CIIS wilh tbe Fedcnl Govunment, 

Mlether for yowseJJ; on behalf of a client, or acting as an agco1, thai migb! in any 

way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest wiO! the position to which 

you have betn nominated. 

Noae 

4. List any lobbying activity during tbe past tea )'CIIS in which you have engaged in for the 

purpose of directly or indirectly influencing tbe passage, defeat or modification of 

any legUJation at tbe national level of govemment or affetting the administration and 

executionofnalional Jaworpubtic policy. 

Noae 

S. Explain how you will resolve any conflict of interest that may be disclosed by your 

responses to the items above. 

NJA 

I. Give tbe full deuils of any civil or crimioaJ proc:eeding in which you were a defcndanl 

or any inquiry or investiption by 1 Fedenl, Stale, or local apy in which ycu ~ 

the subject of tbe inquiry or investigatioo. 

Noae 

2. GM the full details of any proceeding. inquiry or in 'CS~igation by any profeuional 

association including any bar association in which you were the subject of the 

proceeding, inquiry or investigation. 

Noae 
98 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR BROWN 

FROM PAUL COMPTON 

Q.1. There is broad agreement in the courts that the Federal Fair 

Housing Act applies to discriminatory practices of homeowners’ insurers. In the more than 20 years since the Fair Housing Act was 

amended and HUD issued interpretive regulations, every court to 

consider the issue has held that the Fair Housing Act prohibits 

acts of discrimination by homeowners’ insurers. Specifically, courts 

have found that the discriminatory practices of homeowners’ insurers violate 42 U.S.C. § 3604(a), (b) and § 3605. 

Courts have found that because the ability to obtain insurance 

is inexorably linked to the ability to obtain housing—i.e., adequate 

insurance is necessary to own or rent housing—insurance discrimination violates the ‘‘otherwise make unavailable or deny’’ provision 

of section 3604(a). 

Given the strong case law concerning the applicability of the Fair 

Housing Act to the insurance industry, what is your position on 

HUD’s Discriminatory Effects rule and its applicability to the insurance industry? 

A.1. If confirmed, I would be responsible for the Department’s enforcement and litigation involving the Discriminatory Effects rule. 

As I have been informed by HUD staff that there is currently pending litigation, it would be inappropriate for me to comment on this 

matter. 

Q.2. Do you support HUD’s Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing 

(AFFH) rule, and will you commit to implementing it? 

A.2. Based on my reading and understanding of it, and without the 

benefit of any discussions with HUD personnel, the AFFH rule 

seeks to integrate communities by requiring States, municipalities, 

public housing authorities and every other key recipient of HUD 

funding to develop a plan to move affordable housing resources into 

areas deemed to have a higher quality of life or otherwise bring 

other resources into lower income or more segregated areas. 

The AFFH rule appears to be closely linked to disparate impact 

analysis, though it in principal part predates the Supreme Court’s 

guidance in Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs 

v. Inclusive Communities Project. Inc. The AFFH rule appears to 

presume that geographic units that are not reflective of the broader 

community’s make up, in terms of protected classes of persons 

under the FHA, are indicative of violations of the FHA’s admonition to HUD to ‘‘affirmatively further the policies of the FHA’’. This 

would require the funding recipients in these areas to take the actions that HUD has approved in the recipient’s plan to change this 

situation. 

The AFFH rule, which does not set forth objective standards but 

instead sets forth a planning process with HUD data and discretionary approval authority, likely requires localities receiving HUD 

funding to change their own policies, ordinances and local funding 

priorities in order to achieve the purposes the goals set forth in 

their plan once it has been approved by HUD. 

The Supreme Court in its Inclusive Communities opinion has 

given HUD a roadmap for use of disparate impact analysis under 

the Fair Housing Act. Statistics, without more, are not enough. The 

99 

Court has called for findings of robust causality. Disparate impact 

data can be a powerful tool in identifying discriminatory intent but, 

as with all tools, should be used in appropriate circumstances. 

If I am fortunate enough to be confirmed, I believe that implementation of the AFFH rule will need to reflect the interpretation 

of the Fair Housing Act by the Supreme Court in Inclusive Communities, be mindful of principles of federalism and not place undue 

bureaucratic burdens on local municipalities and public housing 

authorities, among others. We will have to see the results of implementation of the current regulation in order to better evaluate the 

policy. Fair housing should, in my mind, be about ensuring individual rights. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTION OF SENATOR SHELBY 

FROM PAUL COMPTON 

Q.1. Mr. Compton, you have practiced housing law for almost 30 

years. With that experience, you surely understand many aspects 

of the housing industry. 

If confirmed, what actions will you take at HUD to increase the 

efficiency and productivity of the Office of the General Counsel? 

A.1. If I am fortunate enough to be confirmed, I will seek to ensure 

that headquarters and regional office OGC staff communicate 

clearly and frequently to ensure that HUD’s laws and regulations 

are interpreted and enforced consistently and effectively. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR REED FROM 

PAUL COMPTON 

Q.1. The Office of General Counsel is responsible for working with 

senior policy officials and staff to develop and draft the Department’s legislation and major regulations, notices of policy statements, and other key notices of the Department. How do you intend to work with senior leadership and across program areas to 

design and implement legislative and regulatory changes, and what 

changes will you prioritize during your tenure at HUD? Further, 

what changes if any do you intend to make to HUD’s fair housing, 

LGBT, and Lead Paint regulations? How might the Presidential 

Executive Order on Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs impact your ability to execute this agenda? 

A.1. If I am fortunate enough to be confirmed, I will work collaboratively with the program offices to ensure that implementation of 

legislative and regulatory changes is completed expeditiously and 

within the bounds of the law. If confirmed as the General Counsel, 

I would apprise the appropriate program offices on the Office of 

General Counsel’s assessment of the legality of any proposed 

changes to HUD programs, including, but not limited to, fair housing, LGBTQ and Lead Paint regulations. It is my understanding 

that HUD has established a taskforce to review regulations and I 

look forward to understanding, and constructively participating in, 

streamlining burdensome regulations to help HUD better achieve 

its important mission. 

100 

1http://www.weeklystandard.com/huds-power-grab/article/759151. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR MENENDEZ 

FROM PAUL COMPTON 

Q.1. In 2013, you told the Weekly Standard regarding HUD’s 

AFFH efforts, ‘‘It’s a real shift in emphasis from ensuring that the 

private sector and participants in Federal programs don’t unlawfully discriminate to defining the existence of racially and ethnically ‘segregated’ neighborhoods to be in themselves a violation 

of fair housing.’’1 Keeping in mind that you affirmed to the Committee during your nomination hearing that you intend to implement the AFFH rule, could you please explain what you meant in 

your comments to the Weekly Standard in 2013? 

A.1. As the AFFH rule was in the process of being promulgated, 

I was one of a number of persons a journalist asked to comment 

on it. As I read and understood the promulgating release at the 

time, without the benefit of any discussions with HUD personnel, 

the AFFH rule sought to integrate communities by requiring 

States, municipalities, public housing authorities and every other 

key recipient of HUD funding to develop a plan to move affordable 

housing resources into areas deemed to have a higher quality of life 

or otherwise bring other resources into lower income or more segregated areas. 

The AFFH rule appears to be closely linked to disparate impact 

analysis, though it in principal part predates the Supreme Court’s 

guidance in Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs 

v. Inclusive Communities Project, Inc. The AFFH rule appears to 

presume that geographic units that are not reflective of the broader 

community’s make up, in terms of protected classes of persons 

under the FHA, are indicative of violations of the FHA’s admonition to HUD to ‘‘affirmatively further the policies of the FHA.’’ This 

would require the funding recipients in these areas to take the actions that HUD has approved in the recipient’s plan to change this 

situation. 

The AFFH rule, which does not set forth objective standards but 

instead sets forth a planning process with HUD data and discretionary approval authority, likely requires localities receiving HUD 

funding to change their own policies, ordinances, and local funding 

priorities in order to achieve the purposes the goals set forth in 

their plan once it has been approved by HUD. 

The Supreme Court in its Inclusive Communities opinion has 

given HUD a roadmap for use of disparate impact analysis under 

the Fair Housing Act. Statistics, without more, are not enough. The 

Court has called for findings of robust causality. Disparate impact 

data can be a powerful tool in identifying discriminatory intent but, 

as with all tools, should be used in appropriate circumstances. 

If I am fortunate enough to be confirmed, I believe that implementation of the AFFH rule will need to reflect the interpretation 

of the Fair Housing Act by the Supreme Court in Inclusive Communities, be mindful of principles of federalism and not place undue 

bureaucratic burdens on local municipalities and public housing 

authorities, among others. We will have to see the results of implementation of the current regulation in order to better evaluate the 

101 

policy. Fair housing should, in my mind, be about ensuring individual rights. 

Q.2. In the 114th Congress, I introduced the Senate version of the 

Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act (HOTMA). The 

legislation was passed unanimously in both the House and Senate, 

and it was signed into law on July 29, 2016. HUD has begun the 

process of implementing some of the provisions, but many 

rulemakings remain outstanding. As General Counsel, you will 

play an important role in the rulemaking process. What will you 

do to prioritize rulemakings mandated by HOTMA? 

A.2. HOTMA enacted several important reforms for HUD, including streamlining and burden-reducing changes to the Section 8 and 

Public Housing programs, creating a special assistant for veterans 

affairs in the Office of the Secretary, and updating the distribution 

formula for the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS 

(HOPWA) program. HUD has already implemented some of these 

provisions where permitted by notice, which included receiving 

public comment on that implementation. This public comment will 

inform future rulemaking efforts. 

Senator, I will remain mindful of your interest in this and the 

broad congressional support for this legislative initiative. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR BROWN 

FROM ANNA MARIA FARIAS 

Q.1. There is broad agreement in the courts that the Federal Fair 

Housing Act applies to discriminatory practices of homeowners’ insurers. In the more than 20 years since the Fair Housing Act was 

amended and HUD issued interpretive regulations, every court to 

consider the issue has held that the Fair Housing Act prohibits 

acts of discrimination by homeowners’ insurers. Specifically, courts 

have found that the discriminatory practices of homeowners’ insurers violate 42 U.S.C. § 3604(a), (b) and § 3605. 

Courts have found that because the ability to obtain insurance 

is inexorably linked to the ability to obtain housing—i.e., adequate 

insurance is necessary to own or rent housing—insurance discrimination violates the ‘‘otherwise make unavailable or deny’’ provision 

of section 3604(a). 

Given the strong case law concerning the applicability of the Fair 

Housing Act to the insurance industry, what is your position on 

HUD’s Discriminatory Effects rule and its applicability to the insurance industry? 

A.1. My understanding is that there is pending litigation, to which 

HUD is a party, concerning this matter. As such, it would be inappropriate for me to comment until those cases are resolved 

Q.2. There are approximately 495 full-time employees at HUD’s office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, the lowest staffing 

level since 1989. According to the President’s budget request, HUD 

would receive $2.2 million less for salaries and expenses for FY 18. 

In 2008, the bipartisan National Commission on Fair Housing and 

Equal Opportunity led by former HUD Secretaries Jack Kemp and 

Henry Cisneros recommended that FHEO needed at least 750 

FTEs for the fair housing office. This work includes reviewing and 

102 

investigating complaints of sexual harassment by landlords, explicit preferences landlords make saying no children are allowed in 

an apartment, and other forms of housing discrimination no one 

should ever have to experience. 

As FHEO Assistant Secretary, what would you do to increase 

FHEO staffing to address fair housing enforcement and education, 

or meet the existing investigation, policy, and technical assistance 

requirements of the office? 

A.2. I support the Secretary’s plan for reforming Government, 

which calls on us to find efficiencies to maximize the impact of our 

staff. The dedicated employees in FHEO may be better aided in 

their enforcement, education and compliance work through improved technology or skills enhancement. If confirmed as Assistant 

Secretary, one of the first things I will do is look at FHEO’s processes and procedures to ensure we are getting the most value out 

of our spending. I will look at how roles and responsibilities are organized to ensure they are aligned to achieve maximum benefit. I 

will also ensure employees that underperform are held accountable. 

Finally, I will talk to the employees of HUD, who, no doubt, have 

many ideas for improving the Department’s operations. 

The mission of the Office of FHEO is critical to the Department 

and the country, and, if confirmed as Assistant Secretary, I will do 

everything I can to ensure it has the resources it needs and that 

those resources are used to maximum effect. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTION OF SENATOR REED FROM 

ANNA MARIA FARIAS 

Q.1. According to HUD’s website, ‘‘the Fair Housing Act protects 

people from discrimination when they are renting, buying, or securing financing for any housing. The prohibitions specifically cover 

discrimination because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, 

disability, and the presence of children’’—also colloquially known 

as the Fair Housing Act’s protected classes. If confirmed, will you 

treat each of the protected classes equally in vigorously enforcing 

the Fair Housing Act? 

A.1. Senator, you have my commitment that, if confirmed, I will 

vigorously enforce the Fair Housing Act and always treat each of 

the protected classes equally. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR MENENDEZ 

FROM ANNA MARIA FARIAS 

Q.1. HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity has a 

critical role to play in disaster recovery funding. In New Jersey 

after Superstorm Sandy, it wasn’t just homeowners impacted by 

the storm. Renters, a higher-share of whom are African Americans 

and Latinos, were subjected to long waiting lists, lengthy delays, 

and denial of assistance without ever finding out why. Complicating matters, there were reports that the State’s Spanish language website contained incorrect instructions and wasn’t corrected 

until it was too late to apply. We also saw reports of disproportionately higher rejection rates for African Americans and Latinos. 

Even if there was no intentional discrimination, a disparate impact 

103 

is still cause for significant concern. What will be your approach to 

investigating such claims should they arise in the future, and how 

will you ensure fair and equitable treatment in disaster recovery 

funding for all individuals? 

A.1. Based on HUD’s experience during Superstorm Sandy, we 

know we must be especially alert to any differences in services provided to people, based on race or national origin. At the first mention of such allegations, I will investigate and take steps to make 

sure everyone is treated fairly. This includes making sure recipients of HUD funds provide the same information to all persons 

about their rights and the relief available. In communities where 

significant populations speak languages other than English, like 

Spanish, we will make sure recipients provide all the same information in those languages (on websites and in other forms), so they 

can timely benefit from all the same services and relief. The primary goal is to prevent such problems from occurring in the first 

place. As Assistant Secretary, I would do all I can to provide guidance, technical assistance, and best practices so that when governments are reacting to a disaster they can easily comply with the 

law. 

Q.2. HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity is responsible for enforcing fair housing laws and ensuring fair access 

to housing for all Americans. For many new Americans and others 

for whom English is not their first language, fair access to housing 

includes having resources and translations available to them that 

are clear, consistent, and accurate, as well as protection from discriminatory housing decisions based solely on their limited English 

language abilities. 

• Can you describe what your approach would be at HUD regarding limited English proficiency access? 

• Can I have your commitment to make this a priority if you are 

confirmed? 

A.2. Over 25 million people in the United States, approximately 9 

percent of the overall population, are limited in their English proficiency. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Executive 

Order 13166 require that Federal agencies ensure that people with 

limited English proficiency (LEP) have meaningful access to programs that receive HUD funding. The responsibility for ensuring 

the Department and its recipients comply with that important civil 

rights responsibility falls to the Office of Fair Housing and Equal 

Opportunity. If confirmed as Assistant Secretary, I would review 

the language access services presently available in the Department 

and engage in extensive outreach to make sure all populations 

know how to utilize the services HUD provides. 

Q.3. In September, HUD issued new guidance on protections under 

the Fair Housing Act for people with limited English proficiency. 

As explained in the guidance, housing providers are prohibited 

from using limited English proficiency selectively or as an excuse 

for intentional housing discrimination. In addition, the guidance 

clarifies that landlords are prohibited from using limited English 

proficiency in a way that causes an unjustified discriminatory effect. 

104 

Do you agree with the contents of this guidance? 

A.3. Yes, the Fair Housing Act protects individuals from discrimination based on their national origin. One common proxy for national origin discrimination is discrimination against persons based 

on their English proficiency. This discrimination is illegal regardless of the form—discriminatory treatment or discriminatory effect. 

If confirmed as Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing, I will follow 

this guidance to ensure all individuals are protected from discrimination. 

Q.4. It is estimated that each year more than four million acts of 

discrimination occur in the rental housing market alone, but only 

a small fraction of these acts are reported. 

Q.4.a. How will you ensure fair housing education, testing, and enforcement are priorities for HUD? 

A.4.a. Even one family denied housing because of their race, color, 

religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status is too 

many. I believe it is imperative that the Department do a better 

job in educating housing providers about the Fair Housing Act in 

order to prevent discrimination and educate the public about their 

rights and the advocacy services available so they can get redress 

for their injuries if discrimination occurs. 

But education is not enough. We must be prepared to vigorously 

enforce the law through our enforcement authorities at HUD. We 

must also support State and local enforcement by our State and 

local partners through the Fair Housing Assistance Program, and 

support the work, including testing, by the Fair Housing Initiatives 

Program organizations. 

Q.4.b. How do you plan to operate and oversee fair housing programs to deliver capacity and resources to local governments, fair 

housing agencies, and other key stakeholders? 

A.4.b. I see the work of FHEO as part of a three-pronged plan that 

supports fair housing in this country. First, there’s HUD. Then, we 

are joined in this effort by our partners in the Fair Housing Initiatives Program, where nonprofits assist individuals informally and 

ensure that the general public and housing providers are educated 

about fair housing rights and responsibilities. Third, we have our 

State and local partners in the Fair Housing Assistance Program, 

who provide a local face for civil rights enforcement and investigate 

80 percent of Fair Housing Act cases in the country. 

For FY 2018, the funding the President requested for fair housing programs was equal to the amount provided by Congress for 

2016 and 2017. This Administration is committed to upholding fair 

housing. If confirmed, I will continue that strong support for State 

and local governments and fair housing organizations. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR BROWN 

FROM NEAL RACKLEFF 

Q.1. The mayors of small towns in Ohio say that CDBG grants are 

critical in improving their infrastructure and meeting their community and economic development goals. 

Would you agree with their assessment that CDBG is an important tool in their efforts to ensure that small town America is not 

105 

left behind in our economy? How have you seen CDBG used to help 

small towns and rural areas in their community and economic development efforts? 

A.1. In my experience, CDBG funding can be used to effectively improve infrastructure in meeting community and economic development goals. 

In Texas, a great deal of the CDBG funding administered by the 

State is used to help small towns and rural areas improve infrastructure through projects such as road construction and improvement or expansion of water and sewer facilities. 

Q.2. Mr. Rackleff, it is no secret that the President’s FY 2018 budget would eliminate many of the programs that you would administer at CPD, if confirmed. That proposal was deeply disappointing. 

Many of my colleagues and I are working to make sure that does 

not happen. 

Can you tell us how you used these programs in your housing 

and community development work in Houston? 

A.2. In Houston, we used the CDBG grant funds we received effectively to promote community development, eliminate blight, repair 

and replace housing damaged from weather disasters and to provide public services and facilities to Houstonians in need. Nearly 

all the CDBG funding expended on housing did not come from traditional annual CDBG grants but rather from special congressional 

appropriations related to disasters. 

The traditional CDBG fending the city of Houston received was 

reduced dramatically during my tenure. In 2011, Houston received 

$35.8 million in CDBG funding—by 2015 that amount had dwindled to $22.9 million—a 36 percent reduction. 

Q.3. In recent months, HUD has withdrawn two Notices and removed from its website several resources intended to carry out its 

policies to ensure housing rights for LGBTQ individuals. This includes LGBTQ youth, who make up nearly 40 percent of all homeless youth. The withdrawn Notices were designed to 1) require 

HUD-participating housing providers to display information regarding the rights of LGBTQ individuals and 2) collect information 

necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of an LGBTQ youth homelessness demonstration program. 

If confirmed, will you work to reinstate these notices and guidance? If not, why not? 

A.3. Senator, I have not had the opportunity to examine this particular matter yet. As I stated during my confirmation hearing, in 

response to a question from Senator Cortez Masto, if confirmed, I 

pledge to look into this issue within my first 2 weeks. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR SHELBY 

FROM NEAL RACKLEFF 

Q.1. Mr. Rackleff, your work in the city of Houston involved serving many families using HUD grants. Your new role at HUD will 

involve oversight of the Community Development Block Grant program. 

Q.1.a. What is your experience with the Community Development 

Block Grant program in Houston? 

106 

A.1.a. In Houston, we used the CDBG grant funds we received effectively to promote community development, eliminate blight, repair and replace housing damaged from weather disasters and to 

provide public services and facilities to Houstonians in need. Nearly all the CDBG funding expended on housing did not come from 

traditional annual CDBG grants but rather from special congressional appropriations related to disasters. 

The traditional CDBG funding the city received was reduced dra- matically during my tenure. In 2011, Houston received $35.8 million in CDBG funding. By 2015 that amount had dwindled to $22.9 

million—a 36 percent reduction. 

Notable projects include development of a grocery store in a food 

desert and redevelopment of a vacant historic office building in 

downtown Houston, which is now a beautiful JW Marriott hotel. 

On that project, we made an approximately $7 million loan to the 

hotel and were fully repaid with interest within about 2 years. We 

invested $9.3 million total in these two projects, creating 278 jobs 

and leveraging a total investment of $85.7 million. 

Q.1.b. How did the program help you and the city of Houston? 

A.1.b. The program enabled us to create jobs, redevelop historic 

and blighted properties and provide housing and infrastructure for 

Houstonians. Additionally, 16.77 percent of the nondisaster CDBG 

funding we received was used to provide public services, such as 

aid to the homeless and victims of domestic violence, and programs 

designed to improve job opportunities and assist at-risk youth to 

focus on their education. We also used the program to construct 

public facilities such as health clinics, food pantries and a charter 

school. Finally, we used the program to improve infrastructure to 

reduce risks of flooding in inner-city communities. 

As mentioned in my hearing, should I be confirmed, I pledge to 

use whatever resources may be entrusted to me wisely and effectively. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR REED FROM 

NEAL RACKLEFF 

Q.1. In reviewing your nominations materials, I was pleased to 

read about your experience in using the Community Development 

Block Grant (CDBG) program, which President Trump has proposed zeroing out for FY 18. This would be a $3 billion cut overall 

and a $15.2 million cut for Rhode Island in 2018. Please describe 

your personal experience working with CDBG. In particular, I 

would like to learn more about how you used CDBG to overcome 

a food desert in Houston. 

A.1. In Houston, we used the CDBG grant funds we received effectively to promote community development, eliminate blight, repair 

and replace housing damaged from weather disasters and to provide public services and facilities to Houstonians in need. Nearly 

all the CDBG funding expended on housing did not come from traditional annual CDBG grants but rather from special congressional 

appropriations related to disasters. 

The traditional CDBG funding the city received was reduced dramatically during my tenure. In 2011, Houston received $35.8 

107 

million in CDBG funding. By 2015 that amount had dwindled to 

$22.9 million—a 36 percent reduction. 

Regarding overcoming a food desert in Houston, we incentivized 

the development of a brand new grocery store in an area considered a food desert. Total development cost for the store was $4.9 

million. We provided a $1.9 million CDBG grant to help make the 

project economically viable. The grocer was required to do the following: 1) create 25 full-time equivalent jobs; 2) properly maintain 

the store; and 3) include a specified amount of linear shelf space 

stocked with fresh fruits and vegetables and other nutritious groceries designed to ensure the store would be a grocery store rather 

than a convenience store. If the owner adhered to these requirements the grant would burn off at a rate of 10 percent annually, 

but if the conditions were violated then the balance of the grant 

would convert to a repayable loan with interest, amortized over 15 

years. This ‘‘clawback’’ mechanism was instituted to ensure the city 

received the benefit of the incentive after it was provided to the 

owner. 

Q.2. Also in your nominations materials, you made reference to a 

fair housing situation in Houston in which you helped negotiate a 

win-win solution. Could you please provide additional details? 

A.2. When I became Director of the Department of Housing and 

Community Development, the city of Houston was struggling to 

comply with the terms of a previous Hurricane Ike CDBG–DR 

Round 1 grant. The single family component was behind schedule. 

We got it back on track and completed. Additionally, Houston was 

chosen to receive a Round 2 grant of an additional $178 million. 

Fair Housing advocates had litigated against the State of Texas 

and with HUD regarding the disposition of these funds. They had 

a Conciliation Agreement with HUD and the State of Texas allowing them significant influence over how and where such funding 

could be spent. They threatened to sue the city of Houston if we 

did not comply with their desires to focus the $178 million in areas 

they considered ‘‘high opportunity’’ rather than in inner-city neighborhoods that had concentrations of minority and low-income residents. I felt strongly that we should not turn our backs on the very 

inner-city communities HUD was created to strengthen. So, we 

were at a significant impasse. I was faced with a choice—litigate 

the matter—which could easily take 3 to 5 years, during which 

time none of the families we were entrusted with serving would receive any help, or instead try to find common ground and negotiate 

a solution allowing us to use the resources entrusted to us to help 

those we serve as quickly as possible. 

I chose to negotiate. We brought the activists and grassroots 

housing proponents to the table and found common ground. We 

proposed that rather than moving families out of the neighborhoods 

they loved and away from their families, churches and other support groups and institutions, that we should focus our resources on 

two to three specific inner-city communities and rather than just 

doing housing in a vacuum, we would dedicate other resources to 

improve infrastructure and promote economic development. The advocates agreed with this approach. So, together we conducted a 

comprehensive planning, market and demographic analysis to 

108 

target communities where gentrification was likely. We wanted to 

use our resources to jumpstart revitalization of these areas but also 

ensure that high quality affordable homes would be in such neighborhoods to avoid displacement of lower-income families as the tide 

of gentrification swept over these historically underserved neighborhoods. We involved the community in choosing the areas to a 

degree never done before in Houston. We had 13 public meetings 

with over 500 unduplicated participants to refine our focus on the 

right communities. Then I went with the activists to the State of 

Texas officials responsible for the program and we received permission to proceed. Four out of five of the multi-family developments 

we proposed are under construction, and I believe all the singlefamily homes have been completed. In contrast, most of the other 

local governmental entities in the Houston area did not choose to 

bring the activists to the table and are still trying to work through 

issues that will allow them to eventually proceed with their desired 

projects. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR MENENDEZ 

FROM NEAL RACKLEFF 

Q.1. The President’s FY 2018 budget request included the proposed 

elimination of the Community Development Block Grant program 

and the HOME Investment Partnership Program. When asked 

about these proposed eliminations during your nomination hearing, 

you confirmed that these programs demonstrated a measurable impact in Houston. 

Q.1.a. If this budget were to be enacted in its current form, would 

it increase housing instability and homelessness? 

A.1.a. If Congress funds HUD at the level proposed in the President’s FY 2018 budget, it would take some time for HUD to spend 

down the existing unobligated budget authority. If Congress maintains this level of funding beyond the short term, these are concerns that will need to be monitored. 

Q.1.b. Do you support the elimination of the Community Development Block Grant program as proposed in the budget? If you do 

support the budget, please explain what specific alternative funding mechanisms will be provided to States, cities, and localities to 

fill the void created by the elimination of the program. 

A.1.b. I’ll be the first to tell you that in Houston we saw the positive outcomes that occur when a city uses CDBG funds in an efficient and effective manner. But I also know that where we used 

CDBG wisely, many other localities do not. Instead, they use these 

precious dollars to plug budget holes. As the President’s nominee, 

I of course support the Administration’s proposed budget, which 

balances priorities across the Federal Government. If confirmed, I 

will bring my many years of experience as a housing practitioner 

who used CDBG funding to achieve successful outcomes in Houston 

to future internal budget deliberations. 

Q.1.c. Do you support elimination of the HOME Investment Partnership program as proposed in the budget? If you do support the 

budget, please explain what specific alternative funding 

109 

mechanisms will be provided to States, cities, and localities to fund 

the creation of affordable housing for low-income households. 

A.1.c. As I noted in the above answer, as the President’s nominee, 

I support the Administration’s proposed budget. HOME is a program with which I have extensive experience, and we had great 

success with it in Houston. I also know the program has been criticized for misuse of funds. And the prior Administration made reductions to HOME as well. As I stated at my confirmation hearing, 

if confirmed, I will faithfully administer any Federal funds with 

which I am entrusted by Congress. I also will work with the Congress, State and local governments, and private sector partners to 

identify mechanisms and means to support the development and 

preservation of affordable housing. 

Q.2. The U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH) is an 

independent agency tasked with coordinating the Federal response 

across 19 Federal member agencies to address homelessness. In 

2010, USICH spearheaded the Federal Government’s first comprehensive strategic plan to prevent and end homelessness. Since 

that time, there has been an overall reduction in nationwide homelessness by 14 percent, family homelessness by 23 percent, chronic 

homelessness by 27 percent, and veteran homelessness by 47 percent. The President’s FY 2018 budget outline proposes to completely eliminate funding for the USICH. 

Q.2.a. Do you support the elimination of the U.S. Interagency 

Council on Homelessness as proposed in the budget? If you do support the budget, please explain how States, cities, and localities 

will fill the void created by the elimination of this independent 

agency. 

A.2.a. HUD is committed to working across agencies and State, 

local, and private partners to leverage other programs to end homelessness. One of the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness’ biggest accomplishments was the promotion of interagency collaboration to combat homelessness. USICH helped pave 

the way for collaboration across agencies, and now such collaboration across agencies has become more common place and can continue without a distinct Council. 

Q.2.b. CPD plays an important role in fighting homelessness by administering HUD’s homeless assistance programs, which provide 

grants to aid State and community efforts to prevent and end 

homelessness. How would the elimination of the U.S. Interagency 

Council on Homelessness affect the progress made in ending homelessness? 

A.2.b. As I stated above, I believe HUD is well positioned to continue collaborating with other departments and agencies to combat 

homelessness. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR HEITKAMP 

FROM NEAL RACKLEFF 

Q.1. HUD Budget: As the Assistant Secretary for Community 

Planning and Development, you will oversee many important programs that were eliminated in the Administration’s FY 18 budget, 

including CDBG, the HOME program, and the Housing Trust 

110 

Fund. These programs are so important to North Dakota’s 

communities. When the budget blueprint was first released earlier 

this year, I reached out to city and State officials in North Dakota 

to get a complete picture of where they used these funds and received an overwhelming response imploring me to speak up for 

these programs. As you know from working with CDBG in Texas, 

those funds alone are used for everything from dental centers for 

the disadvantaged to senior centers to affordable housing for families. 

You maintained in your nomination hearing that you support the 

Administration’s proposed elimination of these programs. While it 

is the job of Congress to determine the budget, are you prepared 

to be an advocate for these programs? 

A.1. Senator, I can commit to you that whatever resources Congress sees fit to provide to HUD’s Office of Community Planning 

and Development, I will utilize those resources wisely and effectively. Furthermore, if confirmed, I will bring my many years of experience as a housing practitioner who used CDBG funding to 

achieve successful outcomes in Houston to future internal budget 

deliberations. 

Q.2. Transitional Housing: In recent years, HUD has strongly favored the ‘‘housing first’’ model—prioritizing rapid rehousing over 

transitional projects. While rapid rehousing can be effective for 

many cases of homelessness, transitional housing with built-in 

services like substance abuse counseling and job training still 

serves an important purpose for specific targeted groups, including 

victims of domestic violence, at-risk youth, individuals struggling 

with substance abuse (including opioids), and the recently incarcerated. As the head of CPD, you will oversee many of HUD’s homelessness programs. 

I appreciated that you mentioned transitional housing in the 

hearing and look forward to working with you to improve transitional housing policy should you be confirmed. Can you tell me 

more about your opinion on transitional housing as it fits into the 

arsenal of housing and intervention options for combating homelessness in our most vulnerable communities? 

A.2. HUD has focused its allocation of resources to alleviate homelessness on those programs and agencies that have yielded the 

most successful outcomes. That emphasis on results has, in my 

opinion, been a significant reason for the emphasis on the housing 

first model. However, transitional housing programs are also often 

very effective in alleviating homelessness and providing effective 

and compassionate assistance for groups, such as victims of domestic violence and those struggling with substance abuse challenges. 

I advocate a balanced approach in which both housing first and 

transitional housing models are employed. In Houston, we supported both models. For example, we funded transitional housing 

projects for a group formerly called ‘‘The Men’s Center’’ which has 

been renamed ‘‘Recenter’’ (http://recenterhouston.com) and for a 

wonderful organization called The Women’s Home (https:// 

www.thewomenshome.org/). 

111 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTION OF SENATOR BROWN 

FROM RICHARD ASHOOH 

Q.1. You will be overseeing a sensitive area of the Bureau of Industry and Security’s national security and nonproliferation work, including remaining issues on the export control reform initiative undertaken by the prior Administration. Beyond completing that reform initiative, what are the main national security priorities you 

will bring to this position, and how do you intend to pursue them? 

What do you see as the major challenges in this area—i.e., what 

will keep you up at night—in terms of your national security portfolio? 

A.1. Existing challenges to our Nation’s security, such as WMD 

proliferation, will continue to occupy BIS as a top priority concern. 

If confirmed, I will devote serious attention to cybersecurity software and emerging technologies. Their dual use nature creates a 

more complex challenge for our regulatory system. Further, the 

rapid and often secretive pace of advancement of emerging technologies places pressure on BIS to remain ahead of these threats 

in ways conventional weapons have not in the past. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR MENENDEZ 

FROM RICHARD ASHOOH 

Q.1. What changes can we expect from BIS regarding new Cuba 

regulations the Administration announced in June? 

A.1. It is my understanding that BIS anticipates incorporating a 

reference to a list to be published by the Department of State that 

will identify certain entities and sub-entities that are under the 

control of, or act on behalf of the Cuban military, intelligence or security services. I further understand that BIS anticipates revising 

lists of officials of the government of Cuba that are ineligible for 

certain license exceptions to correspond with the revised definition 

of ‘‘prohibited officials’’ to be published by the Department of the 

Treasury. 

Q.2. Can you ensure that new regulations will prohibit the export 

of goods and services that directly benefit the Castro regime, the 

Cuban military, or Cuban state-owned enterprises? 

A.2. Current BIS regulations include a general policy of denial for 

the export or reexport of items to the Cuban military, police, intelligence and security services. A general policy of denial is also in 

place for the export or reexport of items for use by Cuban stateowned enterprises, agencies, and other organizations that primarily 

generate revenue for the state, including those engaged in tourism 

and those engaged in the extraction or production of minerals or 

other raw materials. If confirmed, I will ensure that BIS will continue to work with the Department of State and other interagency 

partners to implement the President’s Cuba policy through its licensing process. 

Q.3. When will we see finalized Cuba regulations? 

A.3. It is my understanding that BIS has initiated the process to 

review and adjust, as necessary, the current regulations regarding 

exports to Cuba. This process is being coordinated by the National 

112 

Security Council. I am informed that BIS is working closely with 

interagency partners, including the Departments of State and the 

Treasury, to ensure that it promptly implements the President’s 

Cuba policy, and expects to publish any necessary changes in the 

coming months. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTION OF SENATOR BROWN 

FROM ELIZABETH ERIN WALSH 

Q.1. You will be managing a broad portfolio of export promotion 

and efforts to encourage foreign investment into the United States 

at the ITA in Commerce, working with hundreds of Commerce employees and foreign service officers in embassies all over the world 

to promote U.S. products, services and job creation. Should you be 

confirmed, what do you see as the major challenges facing you both 

in pressing entry for U.S. firms into foreign markets and in promoting foreign investment in the United States—and what will be 

your priorities and strategy going forward in managing those challenges? 

A.1. U.S. exports face significant challenges in many markets. The 

causes of market obstruction and closure are numerous including: 

high tariffs; subsidies provided to foreign producers giving them 

unfair advantage over their U.S. competitors; blocking or unreasonably restricting the flow of digital data and services; theft of trade 

secrets; as well as other nontariff barriers—such as unnecessary 

regulations on particular items—to limit competition, including in 

the services sector. 

If confirmed, I will work tirelessly to increase exports by breaking down long-standing trade barriers and fostering increased access for American goods in foreign markets. I intend to work closely 

with my colleagues within ITA and the Secretary to use all possible 

tools to encourage other countries to give U.S. producers fair, reciprocal access to their markets. 

In addition, if confirmed, I intend to focus on improving efficiency. I believe Global Markets will need to rely on technology to 

deliver services efficiently to exporters to achieve this goal. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR MENENDEZ 

FROM ELIZABETH ERIN WALSH 

Q.1. Our competitors around the world are dedicating greater resources toward economic diplomacy and are aggressively helping 

their companies increase exports. Unfortunately, U.S. companies 

cannot count on the same level of support from the U.S. Government. Too often, this dynamic prevents American firms from competing on a level playing field, and as a result, we export less and 

fail to capitalize on valuable opportunities in foreign markets. The 

Administration’s budget will make this situation even worse. It 

threatens to cut 38 Foreign Commercial Service Officer positions 

and close 10 domestic and 35 overseas offices. This is going to 

make it more difficult for American companies who want to export 

and need advocates in foreign markets to promote the value of U.S. 

goods and services. 

113 

Q.1.a. How is this budget approach consistent with the Administration’s goal of reducing the trade deficit? 

A.1.a. The Administration’s budget places a greater emphasis on 

enforcement of trade laws as a means to ensure a level playing 

field. All of Global Markets including the United States and Foreign Commercial Service will continue its mission of advocating for 

U.S. business abroad in as many key markets as possible. 

Q.1.b. Which foreign offices does the Administration plan to close? 

A.1.b. Due to my pending confirmation, I have not been a part of 

any conversation related to specific closures and am unable to answer this question. 

Q.1.c. In the past, I have called for deploying more FCS officers to 

Latin America. Do you agree that Latin America represents a 

largely untapped opportunity for increased U.S. exports and should 

be a priority area of expansion for the Foreign Commercial Service? 

A.1.c. I share your opinion that Latin America presents important 

growth opportunities for the United States. The President has met 

with many of his counterparts in the region. That the United 

States is seeking to bring the NAFTA into the 21st century demonstrates the Administration’s commitment to the Americas. Modernizing and rebalancing our trading relationship with Mexico is 

an important first step in further expanding opportunities for U.S. 

exports in Latin America. 

Q.2. You noted in your testimony that last year, for every $1 appro- priated to the Office of Global Markets $192 was returned to the 

American economy through increased exports and foreign direct investment, which supported approximately 300,000 U.S. job. Given 

that multiplier effect, what do expect to be the impact on exports, 

foreign direct investment, and U.S. jobs, of the Administration’s 

proposed cut of over $43 million for Global Markets? 

A.2. If confirmed, this will be my top concern. As part of this statistic, I was attempting to underscore how important I believe it is 

that Global Markets will need to partner with technology to deliver 

services efficiently to exporters. I do not yet know the impact of 

Global Market’s future efforts to improve efficiency nor the proposed cuts on the Return on Investment of taxpayer dollars. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTION OF SENATOR BROWN 

FROM CHRISTOPHER CAMPBELL 

Q.1. One of your responsibilities will be to advise the Secretary in 

his capacity as the administrator of the Multiemployer Pension Rehabilitation Act, and his capacity as a member of the board of the 

Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation. What actions do you propose the Administration take to address the crisis confronting multiemployer pensions? 

A.1. Multiemployer pension plans are facing serious issues and I 

understand that Treasury has been meeting with relevant stakeholders to discuss these issues. If confirmed, I am committed to 

working with Congress and other stakeholders to develop a fiscally 

responsible solution to these issues. 

114 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR SHELBY 

FROM CHRISTOPHER CAMPBELL 

Q.1. Mr. Campbell, in your role, you will work to appropriately regulate American financial institutions. Currently, our financial regulatory regime is far too burdensome for small and regional financial 

institutions, which pose much less risk than larger institutions to 

the American economy. Regulations must be tailored to appropriately reflect a financial institution’s risk. For example, I have 

advocated for raising the $50 billion asset threshold for enhanced 

prudential standards required by Section 165 of Dodd-Frank, while 

also maintaining a criteria based system that takes into account 

the institution’s assets and unique features. 

• In your opinion, would such reforms benefit our financial system? 

• Under your leadership, in what ways will Treasury prevent redundant and nontransparent financial regulations? 

A.1. I agree that an appropriately tailored regulatory regime is a 

critical element of an effective financial system. I think there are 

a number of important changes that can be made to improve the 

current tailoring of regulations, particularly for smaller and less 

complex regional and community banks. 

Amending the $50 billion asset threshold for enhanced prudential standards required by Section 165 of Dodd-Frank and replacing 

it with a more tailored approach should result in a number of improvements to the regulation of our financial system: removing excessive regulations for less complex regional banks so that they 

may better focus time and resources on lending and serving customers; addressing inappropriate incentives for smaller banks created by the current asset thresholds; and allowing for a better allocation of regulators’ time and resources. 

As the recent Treasury report on Core Principles for financial 

regulation makes clear, after 7 years of continuous rulemaking, it 

is time for a rationalization of regulations. The Treasury report 

outlines a number of ideas to make our regulatory system less redundant and more transparent, which can be implemented through 

a combination of legislation as well as administrative action by the 

financial regulatory agencies. 

If confirmed, I look forward to working with the team at Treasury, Members of Congress, and our Federal and State regulators to 

improve our financial system by further tailoring regulations and 

preventing redundant and opaque rulemakings. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTION OF SENATOR REED FROM 

CHRISTOPHER CAMPBELL 

Q.1. Following President Trump’s Meeting with Russian President 

Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the G20 Summit, he delivered 

the following statement via Twitter: ‘‘Putin & I discussed forming 

an impenetrable Cyber Security unit so that election hacking, & 

many other negative things will be guarded.’’ Later that day, he 

followed up with this statement, also via Twitter: ‘‘The fact that 

President Putin and I discussed a Cybersecurity unit doesn’t mean 

I think it can happen. It can’t . . .’’ Secretary Mnuchin, however, 

115 

has also expressed support for the President’s original idea of cybersecurity cooperation between the United States and Russia. 

During your confirmation hearing, Ranking Member Brown asked 

you to commit that the Treasury Department’s cybersecurity organization, which would be under your purview if you are confirmed, 

will not establish any such cooperative unit with Russia. You did 

not provide a clear, yes or no answer to Ranking Member Brown’s 

question. Will you please answer, in yes or no terms, whether you 

will commit that the Treasury Department’s cybersecurity organization that would be under your control if you are confirmed by the 

Senate, will not establish or participate in any joint cybersecurity 

program with the Russian government? 

A.1. It is my understanding that the Administration has made supporting the security and resiliency of the U.S. financial system, and 

reducing the risk of a significant cybersecurity incident impacting 

the financial sector, a key priority. I believe that effective coordination with other countries, where those discussions can yield positive results, is an important part of this work. 

If confirmed, I will work with the staff at Treasury to pursue appropriate and productive international engagements that support 

and promote effective cybersecurity and ensure all American interests are properly protected. 

RESPONSE TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS OF SENATOR MENENDEZ 

FROM CHRISTOPHER CAMPBELL 

Q.1. Have you discussed housing finance reform with any member 

of the Administration? If so, can you provide an overview of the Administration’s specific priorities on housing finance reform? 

A.1. I am aware that housing finance reform is a priority of the 

Treasury and of the Administration. As Secretary Mnuchin has 

stated publicly before this Committee, our housing finance policy 

should promote borrower access to mortgage credit while protecting 

taxpayers from costly bailouts. I understand that Treasury is engaging with stakeholders inside and outside the Government in advance of developing housing principles and providing recommendations. 

Q.2.a. Throughout his time on the campaign trail, the President 

highlighted neighborhoods and communities throughout the country that seldom reap the benefits of economic expansion but are reliably and disproportionately burdened by economic downturns. 

Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) have 

stepped up for the better part of a century to inject capital, create 

jobs, and provide mortgage credit, small business loans, and banking services in these forgotten communities. In 2016 alone, CDFIs 

made over 39,000 loans and investments totaling more than $3.6 

billion, financed over 11,000 small businesses and over 33,000 affordable housing units. 

As Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions, the CDFI Fund 

will fall directly under your oversight. Do you support the elimination of the CDFI fund as proposed in the budget? If you do support the budget, is it your conclusion that we no longer need to 

116 

promote access to capital and economic growth in economically distressed areas? 

A.2.a. My understanding is that the CDFI Fund budget eliminates 

discretionary grant funding to reflect the Administration’s priority 

to support fiscal responsibility and to focus resources on activities 

that promote national security and public safety. 

However, the budget continues to provide funding for the CDFI 

Fund to continue to operate the nongrant programs, like the New 

Markets Tax Credit Program, which provide support for CDFIs and 

other community organizations lending and investing in economically distressed communities across the country. Since 2001, the 

New Markets Tax Credit Program has allocated $50.5 billion in tax 

credits in urban and rural areas. 

The budget also proposes to reauthorize the Bond Guarantee Program to allow $500 million in new guarantees in FY 2018. This 

program provides capital to CDFIs, at no cost to the taxpayer. 

Q.2.b. Assuming Congress rejects the Administration’s request to 

eliminate the CDFI Fund, what will you do to ensure that the 

CDFI Fund has the tools and resources it requires to continue providing funds and technical assistance to CDFIs throughout the 

country? 

A.2.b. If confirmed, I will work with the team at Treasury to be 

sure that all CDFI programs are operating consistent with all applicable laws, rules, and Administration policies. 

117 

ADDITIONAL MATERIAL SUPPLIED FOR THE RECORD

LETTERS SUBMITTED IN SUPPORT OF THE NOMINATION OF PAUL 

COMPTON 


71817057.eps
118 


71817058.eps

~~f~~ 

July 20, 2017 

The llonorable Mike Crapo 

Chairman 

U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, 

Hou~ng, and Urban Affairs 

239 Oirklal Senate Building 

Wasllington, DC 20510 

l22W1Ba"leStrtet 

Tllladtg.~, Alab~m• moo 

256-J62..J600 

Fn: 256-361·1~1 

The HonorableSbcrrod Bron 

Rankiag Member 

U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, 

lloll!iog, and Urban Affairs 

71J Rll1 Senate Offke Building 

Wubingtoo, OC 20510 

Dear Chairmu Crapo and Ranking Mmtbe.r Bro•·n: 

The more than one hu~dred thirty member locations orthe Alabama Coll!llmer Finme A!!ocialion (ACFA) 

urge the sw'lft eonfinnalion of J. Pau.t Compton as the Geaenll Coun!d for the Department of Housing and 

Urban Omlopmeot (DUO). His experienet and nperti!e dl make him a great addition to IIUO's team. 

The ACFA is a noll-jlrofitrrade groap dtdkated to emting a better publk understanding of the installment 

lending industry and impro•ing publk rdationships and edtK~tioa about oar industry on behalf of oar 

membenhip. None of our members are inroh·ed ··~h payday leading and our A!!OCiatioa bu taken a !Unct 

of opposition to paydas lenders sinct it! inception in September, 2000. 

Mr. Compton bas sen-ed oar M!ociation as Counsd of Rerord for the past se>eoteeo years pro•·iding our 

group with in ~gtttand ll" idanct iato compliance "itb all federal and state laws. His extensn·e knowledge of 

the in!llllmentletding indu!lry makes him an ideal candidate for the pos~ion. 

TheACFA urges you to apprm·e thesd«tion of J. Paul Comptott, and mcn·e his nomination npeditioll!ly to 

the Senate floor. 

Sioeerdy, 

Jv.L £)._.,_,__ 

Prt$ideot, 

The Alabama Consumer Finance Association 
119 


71817059.eps

.\L.\11.1.\L\ \.\KER SSOCL\TI ~ 

July 24, 2017 

The Honorable Mike Crapo 

Chairman 

Comm~tee on Banking, Housing, 

and Urban Affairs 

534 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Chairman Crapo and Ranking Member Brown, 

The Honorable Sherrod BrO'M'I 

Ranking Member 

Committee on Banking, Housing, 

and Urban Affairs 

534 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

On beha~ of the Alabama Bankers Association, I am wming to v.holeheartedly endorse the 

nomination of J. Paul Compton as general counsel of the U.S. Department of Housing and 

Urban Development 

Paul is a well-respected lawyer in Alabama having spent many years providing excellent 

legal representation and strategic guidance for banks across the state -particularly 

commun~y banks. I have worked w~h Paul for many years as he has represented our 

association in legal matters in the pasl l know first-hand the level of commitment and 

dedication he will bring as general counsel of HUD. 

ABA urges both this comm~tee and full Senate to confimn Paul's nomination. He will be a 

tremendous asset to the department as its general counseL 

Kindest regards, 

Scott 

~~ E Latham 

President and CE 0 

Alabama Bankers Association 

445 Dexter Avenue, Suite 10015 1 Montgomery, Alabama 36104-3775 

Phone 1334) 244-9456 1 Fax (334) 244-9382 1 www.alabamabankers.com 
120 


71817060.eps

ALABAMA AFFORDABLE HOUSING AsSOCIATION 1105 Soolbvi<w lone 

July 20,2017 

The Honorable Mike Crapo 

Commiuee on Banking, Housing 

and UJban Affairs 

534 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, D.C. 20510 

SUilel03 lf236 

Tuscaloosa, Alaboma 35405 

(205) 752.0005 

"'v11·,AAI!Am 

The Honorable Sherrod Brown 

Committee on Banking, Housing 

and Urban Affairs 

534 Dirksen Senate Offiee Building 

Washington, D.C. 20510 

Dear Chairman Crapo and Ranking Member Brown: 

On behalf of the Alabama Affordable Housing Association ("AAHA")1

, I am writing to 

enthusiastically endorse the nomination of J. Paul Compton, Jr. to sen~e as the next General 

Counsel oflhe U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). 

I've had the privilege of knowing and working with Paul for many years to address 

Alabama's critical housing finanee and affordable housing needs, principally through HUD 

programs, the low income housing tax credit and rural development programs. Throughout our 

work together, I have found Paul to be exlraoroinarily knowledgeable ofihe challenges facing our 

nation with respect to housing, and dedicated to bringing people together in support of common· 

sense solutions. 

In Alabama, Paul possesses an unrivaled background honed over an ~!most 30.year career 

that brings together all elements of affordable housing development and operations- finance, tax, 

land use, bank regulation, securities and administrative law. 

If eon firmed to serve as General Counsel, Paul will faee a daunting task to help make clear 

the myriad of rules under which affordable housing providers and lenders must operate, provide 

for even-handed enforcement in a manner which Congress intended, and remove unintended 

regulatory batTiers to affordable housing. Paul's experience aeross a range of disciplines uniquely 

qualifies him for the breadth of roles in which HUD is integral to housing in America - public 

housing, public-private partnerships, fair housing, and single-family and multifamily housing 

finance. 

1 AAHA is a tradee<gaaization which r<pl'd<lll$ dcvelopeiS andmanag<nof affordable and rural hoosiQ& lbroughoul 

the Slate of Alabama. Our membeiSbip consisls of over 75 dmlopm and 1nanagm of 8jl0tlmmls, wbost portfolio 

of affordable hOIISing <Ot1SaSI$ of more than 35,000 uni11, primarily in Alabama. One of AAIIA 's missions is 1o 

rqxescn11he vi<ll1 ofils m<mbm befOJt regutalol)' autblrities. We seek 10 encourage the responsible, COU<ff~tlivt, 

and fairly and eff10ienlly administered deveiopncnl and ope11tioa of d«<111, safe and affonlable housing for low and 

mod<ra1t in<W~e Alabomians. 
121 


71817061.eps

The Honorable Mike Crapo 

The Honorable Sherrod Brown 

July 20,2017 

Page2 

AAHA urges this commiltee and, in 1um,1he full Senate 10 approve Paul's nomination and 

we look forward 10 working widt him in !his new role. 

s(?y J/ 

Gary Hall 

President 
122 

LETTER SUBMITTED IN SUPPORT OF THE NOMINATION OF ANNA 

MARIA FARIAS 


71817062.eps

lB NATIONAL 

ASSOCIATION of 

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July13,2017 

The Honor.lllle M1ke Crapo 

O.ai1!1ll¥1 

US. Senare U.nmmet on BWin& 

Hous"g. 11\d Uro111 Aff.aars 

23'J Did:sM Senate Building 

W2ihllg!Oil, DC 20510 

The Hono ~ Shemxl Brovm 

Rankilg Member 

U.S. Senatt Comm.ttee on lhnkrl& 

Ho~and t.:!Wl AtT.in 

713 H.n s.-Ol'l'u B~. 

W>Shmglon, DC 20510 

Dt2t a--Cnpo and Rmb!s Manlzr e.o.m: 

The mort dial 1.2miLon rnanbmof the :\lliod Assoa:ation ofRE.U.TOR$''"11 

d>t mft a~r~limwlon of Mn1 Foms as d>t J\ssiSQl1l Secretary Ul< Fw HouMg :and 

Equoi ()ppo<nx>.ty Ul< d>t Oqlonmeru ofllouMgand U!Wl Del'!lopmma (I-IUD). 

Her eo<perience and expemse wil nr.tko her a&""' addi11011 U> HUD's-

)fs. Fosi., pm·iously sen'td at HUD in ....ious capacities, pro>lding her ~'dl cxtenswe 

lnoo.liedse about the myttld of prugr.uns HUD administers. Her wo<k •s a I lousing 

Audlorily dir=r (and residenr) cnrichts loer ~ding of how r.ir ho.~Sing is&ucs 

affect comrll\lliroes, prop<ny ~11<1Smd cnanl$. These experiences make her an ide3l 

andiclalt lOr d>t posnion. 

REAl TO~ "'11 yoo 10 app!OI<t d>t sdraioo of Arm Forias, and 11101<t her 

norrOnaoon apeda!IOUSiy 10 d>t Sause t1ooL As .. ~ 1pll<OICh d>t 5(16 Annn't<$31)' of 

d>t F.rlblsl1g.~" 2018, d>t!"~AssoamcoofRE.U.~Ioob l'or1l-ard 

U> -bt&''llh ML Fonos 10 ,_ ~O!JPO<Ili'IIIY b:al Ameoans. 

SMtdy, 

~4._ ~ D~ W.Uiam E. Brov.n 

2017 PresOOI~ Nab0n2l~rioo of REAl TO~ 

a:: U.S. Senare CAinminet on Ban kin& Hcusiog. and Uroan A ~hits 
123 

LETTERS SUBMITTED IN SUPPORT OF THE NOMINATION OF NEAL 

RACKLEFF 


71817063.eps

SHEILA M. TURNER, CONSULTANT 

3006 W. Lake Cresa!nt Drive, Klngi'IOOd, Texas n339J28H6C-7610 I shellaml\lmer@ild.com 

)Jiy 17, 2017 

The~ Sen.m MhOapo 

Clll!r ct the BanUlg, Hcusnj !~)~~an llflils ~ 

Sen.ltl!a!'uUdflg 

2391*ben 

Washnglon DC 20510 

The Hootnble Senltllr Sherrod Brown 

Ranking Member of the Bartmg, ~lousing S. Urtlln Alfa!rs Committee 

Senate Oftlce &JIIdlng 

713 Hart 

~DC20510 

()1 biNi d myself and If¥ linn IWr1et C. Latinet S. ~. we 'WIIdd lie to u;nss cu 5ilcere 

~tion fur Neal Racldell as the HUD Assistant Seae!ary ct Cormlunlly Plannt.g and 

Oevtloj)lnent My firm and I have WOib!d w~ Nul fur many )'eatS 011 many wonde!ful p!Ojects, wf1ldl 

wete funded through the Oty ct Hoomn tlouslng and Communly Developnent llt!partment and HOO. 

These projeds lrdtlled funQng fur atlnrc»ble housing, pltllc faclilles, and pubtic 5el'lla!S Willing HOME 

and CD8G lints. 

().t d the lb!n years that I 11M WOited y,tfl the Ciy d Hausloo's llou5il] and Ccm!ldy 

~ llepartmelt, not one d the la!n!r housl1g ch:!!rs has ever e.l'llllt!d the concern fur 

people or the~ d the houstog ~I lire I experienced illth Neal Racldelf. He truly klYed 

his job, the (l)mmunitles he SJerVed, and those who were less fortlllall! In our society. Nealis one of llle 

highest and most ehicallndividuals I know, and rrrt firm and I are prood to recommend and support lis 

CXlnflrmation tomorrolt. Neal Rad<Jelf \I'll be 111 ex001ent addition tD lt.JOI 

If you need an'!tl*l9 from me or If¥ firm, ~let us knew and we~ be happy to ptiMde 'Ill you. 

Thiri. you for l!lisQ1lP0111111ly to be hNC and tllri you fttyo~r ~ d Neal for Ills~ 

post. 

~~ 

'td};?-t'7L-
124 


71817064.eps

tn.lnlllou:•u•t.lnll. 11('9 Fa1111111, ~ntlf' lij( lloltuoo. leu';":'{· If• 

71J.W(. lf:-, 1 T[l· «''lll'llhCJII)(ull.(II'J. · ll{lilto(C>Ililki\\IIII(NJLro.l 

July 14, 2017 

Cent rail I ow;tun 

The Honorable Senator Mike Crapo and the Honorable Senator Sherrod Brown 

U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs 

534 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington. D.C. 20510 

Dear Chairman Crapo and Ranking Member Brown: 

It is my distinct pleasure to recommend to Neil Rackleff for the position of Assistant 

Secretary for Community Planning & Development of the U.S. Department of Housing 

and Urban Development. I have known and worked with Mr. Rackleff in Houston for over 

25 years. This experience include transformative community economic development 

projects, public finance, affordable housing and most recently on making tremendous 

progress on housing and services for families and individuals who are homeless of our 

city. 

Through this collaboration with him, I find Mr. Rackleff to be a strong leader of excellent 

moral character, notable intelligence, courage to do what is right and compassion for all 

people including those with greatest needs. His years of experience equip him well for 

the pos~ion of Assistant Secretary. He will do an excellent job in this position a 

nominated. 

I strongly encourage your support for his nomination. Our country will benefit from Mr. 

Rackleffs leadership and service. 

Most sincerely, 

~ Robert M. Eury 

President 
125 


71817065.eps

The Lipton Agency 

July 17, 2017 

To whom it may concern; 

2611fM 1960W.,SI.Ite0.100 

-11<1-.:1130 

b:(2li1)~~·0 (100)­

Fax:(2li1)581).Jlln 

-~'agorc-W'l!C 

It has b€en a sincere privilege to know Mr. Neal Rackleff for many years. As I am very 

active in the community in Houston, I have often deferred to Neal for various forms of 

advice on homelessness, community planning and housing concerns. 

Neal is the consummate servant leader. His focus has always been on making Houston 

better and never about shining the recognition light on himself. Neal is completely 

honest. incredibly bright and one of the most giving public servants that I have ever 

known. 

It is without any hesitation that I recommend Neal to the position of HUD Assistant 

Secretary of Community Planning and Development Please feel free to call me with any 

questions that you may have. 

larry Lipton 

Agency Owner 
126 


71817066.eps

~ Greater Houston 

July 17, 2017 

The Honorable Michael Crapo 

Chairman 

Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and 

Urban Affairs 

U.S. Senate 

Washington, D.C. 20510 

The Honorable Sherrod Brown 

Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and 

Urban Affairs 

U.S. Senate 

Washington, D.C. 20510 

Dear Chairman Crapo and Ranking Member Brown: 

I am writing to express my strong support for the nomination of Neal Rad<leff to be the next 

Assistant Secretary for Community Planning and Development of the Department of Housing 

and Urban Development (HUD). I have had the opportunity to work with Mr. Rackleff in my 

capacity as Executive Director of the Houston office of the local Initiatives Support Corporation 

(USC). USC is a national community development organization dedicated to strengthening 

communfties-making them good places to live, work, do business and raise children. USC works 

in 31 cities throughout the United States and the Rural USC program serves 44 states. 

I believe that Mr. Rackleff has shown a commitment to strengthening communities through his 

work in Houston and Texas and I encourage the Committee to approve the nomination as 

expedftiously as possible. Mr. Rackleff has spent his career helping to finance and develop 

affordable housing, carry out economic development projects and advance initiatives for low· 

income people and communities. 

The programs that he will oversee in the role of Assistant Secretary include some of the most 

important resources for creating opportunities for low·income communities and addressing 

homelessness - Community Development Block Grants, HOME Investment Partnerships and 

Emergency Shelter Grants- among others. USC works with these funds on a regular basis and 

plays a role in ensuring that good projects serve low·income people and communities while also 

using the resources efficiently and leveraging as many private dollars as possible. 

I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Rackleff in Houston during his tenure as Director of the 

City of Houston Housing and Community Development Department (HCDD). Houston USC 

assisted on projects utilizing funding from the HCOD and participated in several special initiatives. 

Of note, Houston USC facilftated a community planning process to identify Community 

Revitalization Areas to target for the investment of Community Development Block Grant • 

Disaster Recovery (COBG·DR) funding administered by HCDD. This process was connected to 
127 


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Page 2 

efforts by Mr. Rackleff and HCOD to ensure the greatest Impact of the CDBG·DR funds. During 

this time, he used the findings from the community planning process to craft creative solutions 

that both achieved the goal of helping families Impacted by the disaster and forge new 

approaches for broader community impact as well. 

In addition to overseeing the deployment of more than $200 million in CDBG·DR funds during his 

tenure, Mr. Rackleff inherited a variety of challenges facing the Houston Housing and Community 

Development Department. During his tenure, he persevered to resolve the issues facing the 

department while also tackling new responsibilities due to Hurricane Ike and increased focus on 

Affirmatively Further Fair Housing. He rose to the occasion time and again, demonstrating a keen 

ability to navigate complicated situations while negotiating agreements that ensured appropriate 

and strategic use of federal and local dollars. 

Under his leadership, the Oty played a critical role in ending veterans' homelessness and making 

signifiCant progress In reducing chronic homelessness. My team provided technical assistance 

and financing for several of the projects that contributed to those accomplishments. Throughout 

all the work, I was Impressed by Mr. Racldeffs consistent demonstration of a solution-oriented, 

collaborative demeanor and sound judgment. 

Mr. Racldeff understands the programs ofHUD and works well with the wide range of people and 

organizations engaged in the work of community development and housing. On numerous 

occasions, especially In the use of Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery 

resources, I saw Mr. Rackleff work to build consensus among very disparate views while 

demonstrating patience through diffiCult negotiations. His steadfastness led to innovative and 

successful solutions for the families affected by Hurricane Ike. 

In closing. I encourage you to favorably consider Mr. Rackleffs appointment to serve as the 

Assistant Secretary for the Office of Community Planning and Development at HUD. His 

Intelligence, integrity and focus on results make him an excellent choice for the role. Mr. Rackleff 

is a highly respected professional in our city and in the state and I have no doubt that he will be 

able to earn that same reputation at the national level. 

Houston USC looks forward to working with Mr. Rackleff and HUD upon his confirmation to 

ensure that all communities across America continue to receive the support that they need. 

Sincerely, 

AmandaTimm 

Executive Director · Houston 
128 


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July 17, 2017 

MIKE LASTER 

Houston 011· Council ~1ember 

District I 

The Honolable Senator Mike Crapo, Chait 

Ba~. ~ & lkban AffaltS Commrttee 

239 Orksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, D.C., 20510 

The Honorable Senator Sherrod Brown, Ranking Member 

Banking, Housing & Urban Affairs COlnmittee 

713 Hart Senate OffiCe Building 

Washington, D.C., 20510 

Re. Appointment of Neal J. Rad<.leff to the position of 

Assistant Secretary for Commumy Planning and DeYelopment, 

U S. Oepartmert ol Housing and Ulban Development 

SenatOlS: 

I am honored to recommend to you, Mr. Neal J. Rackleff for the posttion of Assistant Seaetary 

lor Communijy Planning and Development. 

I have had the pleasure of knowing Neal for aver 20 years - since 011' early days as Assistant 

City Attorneys for the City of Houston. Most recenUy, t have had the good forllrle of being able 

to WOI1I cf~edly with Neal in his capaaty as Director of the City of Houston's Housing and 

Community Affais Department and in my capacity as a Houston City Coooci Member and 

Chair of the Cooncil's Housing and Community Affars Cormiittee. In all things, I have found 

Neal to be the consummate professional. In his role as Housing Dll'ector, Neal demonstrated a voluminous knowledge and clear understanding of the issues, policies and laws surrounding the 

topics of housing and community development. His reputation as being a man of integrity and 

honesty is well known. His leadership skills enabled him to revRalize and refocus the City's 

Housing Department into a customer driven agency better readied to serve the needs of 

Houstonians. 

While his management ski1s are note'MIIthy, more impol1antly, Neafs heart for 'hands on' 

public semce has been wei demonstrated. I v.ilnessed his compassionate leadership first hand 

on the Sunday morning of Memonal Day, 2015 when a tornado ripped through an apartment 

complex in my Council dlstrict. Significant damage to the complex left fam~ies in need of 

housing and care. Assuming a key leadership role Neal marshaled the Housing Departments' 

personnel and other city resources lo address the needs of those displaced by the tornado. 

UtUe did he know that just a day later Houston would be hit by catastrophic flooding leaving 

neighborhoods across the city in need of extensive emergency assistance. In addttion to City 

personnel, Neal coordinated Houston's fatth and volunteer communtties to provide flooded 

netghbors with aS the help needed in sucll dire circumstances. 

Telephooe(832)39J.3015 • ~&gby, 1• Floor • Houstoo. TXii'OOl 

dislridj< houstonbc.gO\' 
129 


71817069.eps

Re: Neal J. Rackleff 

July 17, 2017 

Page2 

The point Is that Neal's passion for public service, centered upon his 6felong wOik in housing 

and community development is not 0011fined to dusty lheory or mioote policy debates. He 

understancls - better lhan most - that w COIMUlities are best served by common sense and 

pradical responses to peoples' needs. His experience is ived daiy - nourished by his deep 

faith and the love of his family and friends. In short. Neal has the professional training and 

acumen, lhe knowledge and understanding, lhe leadership skills and insight and the lived 

practical experience that ~II certainly be needed in the Department of Housing and Urban 

Development 

I respectfully request that Neal J. Raddeff be appotnled as Assistant Seaeta!y for Convnunity 

Planning and Development in lhe Department of Housing and Urban Oevelopmenl In so cloi119 

both lhe Department and the nation wiD be well served. 

Respectfully, 

Mike Laster 
130 


71817070.eps

~~~~ E . i i nterpnse· 

July 17,2017 

The HonOtable Mike Crapo 

Chainnan of the Senate Banking COIIUJlittce 

239 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC20510 

The Honorable Sherrod Bro1111 

Ranking Member ofthe Senare Banking Committee 

713 Hart Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Re: Support for the Nomination of Neal Rackleff as Assistant Secretary for Community Planning 

and Development, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban De1·elopment 

Dear Cbaimlllll Crapo and Ranking Member Brown: 

On behalf of Enterprise Community Partners, I am writing in support of the nomination of Neal Rackleff 

to serve as Assistant Secretary for Community Planning and Develapment (CPD) at the U.S. Department 

of Housing and Urban Development's {HUD). Enterpri$1: and our par1ners have worked with Mr. Rackleff 

in multiple capacities for several years and enthusiastically recommend him for this role. 

Mr. Racldeff's nomination comes at a critical time, when America is struggling with a gro11ing shortage 

of affordable homes. His strong credentials in housing and community de>tlopment policy, including his 

history of developing affordable housing and aiding 11ith disaster recovery efforts as Director of the City 

of Houston's Housing and Community De1-elopment Department, as well as his e'1ensive experience 

overseeing the deplo)ment of critical oommunity development resources like Community Development 

Bloek Grants, will impro>-e HUD's ability to strengthen communities nation11ide. His collaborative 

approacll to community de1<clopment would be a real asset to HUD's work. 

If you have any questions or would like to discuss Enterprise's e.xperienees working 11ith Mr. Rackleff, 

please contact me directly at Uud11ig@,tnterprisecommunity.org or2 12-284-7178. 

Terri Lud11ig 

President and Chief Executive Officer 

Enterprise Community Partners, Inc. 

ElmRPRISl 

100 s...t~'E .o.s.ilel80 .o. WNinSJ<II, OC ll1002 .o. l0l.W.9190 .o. ~",..EnlapiO<CAlon....,;l)'.ug .o. .... -.,.,.fJ!IapciscCCI!lmunity.()()lll 
131 


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ENHANCI!<G CoMMUNITIES 

THROUGHOUTTIXAS 

SOARD Of 0 1 RECfOR.S 

MICHAEll£ WOJ.M1Y 

Pt!SIDIHT 

WOMAN. INC. 

jllLMILHII. 

VK:l PUSIOtNT 

OOf:SSA AFFOR&.IU HOUSING 

INC. 

PAUl TUR.NEY 

TRIASU Oil 8AAZOS VAWY AfFOP.O.\IU 

HOUSING COti'OAAliON 

G!MlO CA•tTDN 

PAST P'WIOLNT 

WT DAUAS COMMUI<IIY 

OR.GANii'ATION 

)OYCI MCIX>NAU) 

Si(llTARY 

FMMIWO<ICSCIJC 

UO &ARRUlA 

CDC Or BROWNSVJLLE 

CtiARliE PRICE 

OEvtt(I,MENTCOIU'ORAnON 

OF TARRANT COUNTY 

PAVL CI-I.W.lS 

NUGitiORHOOO RfCOVIlY 

CIJC 

ANNUlVM'$ 

soun1 JAJR.COC 

GAkYiJNONil 

PEOPLEFU.NO 

MONIQYE COLEMAN 

NORTH & EAST WBIOCK CDC 

IWAHTOR.RtS 

A2liCA [OO</OMIC 

0EVEI.Of'MENT& 

PRESlP.VATK)N 

TAMAIAfOSilR 

NfW I-lOPE HOUSING 

Ft~ANOO GOOINIZ 

MWCAN AMfRICAN UNIIY 

COUNCIL 

MIKE NGUYEN 

VNTUMWOU: 

MAll BUll 

f.xiCUTIVf OiRlCTOII. 

June 17, 2017 

The Honorable Senator Mike Crapo 

Chair of the Banking, Housing & UJban Affairs Committee 

239 Dirksen Senate Offioe Building 

Washington DC 20510 

The Honorable Senator Sherrod Brown 

Ranking Member of the Banking, Housing & UJban Affairs Committee 

713 Hart Senate Offioe Building 

Washington DC 20510 

Dear Senators: 

The Texas Association of Community Development Corporations 

(TACDC) supports the appointment of Neal Rackleff to the position of 

Assistant Secretary of Community Planning and Development at 

Housing and Urban Development. 

As the Director of Housing at the City of Houston, Mr. Rackleff worked to 

ensure a responsible use of federal funds while supporting the goals of 

community developers in the city. 

TACDC members, particularly those in Houston, are appreciative of Mr. 

Rackleffs efforts in leading the disaster recovery efforts that 

disproportionately impacted low income Houston neighborhoods. 

On behalf of the 120 members of TACDC across the state of Texas, 

please accept this letter for support for Mr. Rackleff as the Assistant 

SecretaJY of Community Planning and Development at HUD. 

Please let me know if you need any add~ional information or would like 

any clarity on our position. 

Bm://; 

MattHu

Executive 

ll 

Director 

~ 

TEXAS ASSOCIATION Of COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONS 010 EAST MARTIN LUT11ER KING )R.IOULEVARD AUSTIN. TIXAS 78702 * PilON! (5121 ~ * FAX (512) 91(>.()541 * WWW.TACOC.OI 
132 


71817072.eps

~ 

NAHB. Notional Assodation 

of -· S..ildtr> 

July 13, 2017 

The Honorable Mike Crapo 

Chairman 

Unned States Senate Committee oo 

Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs 

239 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC 20511).7010 

The Honorable Sherrod Brown 

Ranking Member 

unned States Senate Committee oo 

Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs 

713 Hart Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC 20511). 7010 

Dear Chairman Crapo and Ranking Member Brown: 

Grarcer Mad>onald 

2017 NAH8Chalrman of the Board 

amaalonald@macdonald<ompanles.(Om 

011 behalf of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB}, I am pleased to offer our strong support for the 

nomination of Neal Raddeff to be Assistant Secretary for Communny Planning and DeveiOjllllent at the U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban DeveiOjllllent (HUD). 

NAHB has worked with Neal throughout his long p<ofessional career, both as Diredorof the City of Houston's 

Housing and Communny Development Department where he oversaw numerous community develop<nent and 

affordable housing p<ojects to his more recent posnioo as a Partner in the Houston and Austin offices of Locke 

lord llP where he focuses on communny and economic develop<nent and affordable housing initiatives. 

Throughout his career, Neal Racldeff has proven himseij to be an expert in the housing field, and someone with 

the skill set and expertise necessary to implement key housing initiatives. NAHB has full confidence in Neal 

Raddefffor this aitical po~tion at HUO, and believes he will bring the same record of success to HUO that he 

has brought to the mies of Austin and Houston during his long tenure of public service. 

As housing goes, so goes the economy. To ensure the housing recovery continues to move forward, it is essential 

to have a leader like Neal Racldeff who is committed to pnomotillg pro-housing policies that support 

homeownership, provide rental housing opportunities for hard-wafting American famnies, and remove 

regulatory barriers that are needlessly raising housing rosts aaoss-the-board. 

NAHBiooks forward to working with Neal Rackleff in his role as HUO Assistant Secretary for Communny Planning 

and Develop<nent in 2017 and beyond. 

Bes'jtds, 

&a~ ~ 

ex:: Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs 

120115thStreetNW I W.shinston,OC 20005 I T2022668l00 18003685242 lnahb.org 
133 


71817073.eps

~ New Hope Housing 

Ju~· 14,2017 

The Honomble Mike Crapo 

Chairman 

Uli!Cd Sl31es Sena1e Commiuee on 

B<mng. Housing, and Ulban Affam 

239 Dirksen Sen31e Office Building 

Waslingaon. DC 20510-7010 

The Honorable Shenod Brown 

RankingMc.OO.:r 

Uli!Cd S1a1es Ser,ue Commiuee on 

Banking, HouSing, and Ulban Affairs 

713 Han Se113le OffiCe Building 

Waslingaon, DC 20510-7010 

Dear Cl13im>'lll Oapo and Ranking Member Bro11 n: 

OobeilalfofNew Hope Housing, I am pleased loofferourstrongsuppon for !he nomimtionofNcal Racldeffas 

AssiSianl Secrelal)' for Connnuni1y Planning aod Deltlopmenl allhe U.S. Ocponmelll of Housing and Urban 

Del·clopmem (HUD). 

Ne11 Hope de\•elops aod operates wpportire oousing for !he oomeless and !hose a1 risk. I 1101l>ed It!)' dosely 

wilh Neal when he 11as DiR:clor of 1he Cily of HoUSion 's Housing aod Conuroni~· Derelopmenl DcpanmenL He 

11as inslrumenL11 in financing sereml a11~rd winning supponi1t hoosing propenies e~·e opcd b) Ne11 Hope 

Housing. Neal possesses a finely runed unders!aoding of CoJ11lle.< fuoding rea~ns. He also has 1he abilily 10 

woli< prodUCiil~ y wilh elec!Cd offiCial~ oousing adY«ales aod e~ clopers. focusing each inilialilt in a way 1ha1 

henefds aU citizc~ 

Neal Racldeff is an e~n in the oousing field. I am confldelll his siriUs will be an eiJC((ire ma!cb for HUD's 

in..,onaJt need~ and !hal l'leal 11ill bring 1he same sneeess 1o HUD 1ila1 he brough1 1o Ius pusi1ion in HouSiolt I 

look fol\•lnl 10 working 11i1h him in his role as HUD AssiSialll Sec!Cial) for Comnmni1y Plaruting and 

Del·elopmenl. 

ee: Senate Connninee on Banking, Housing. and Urban Affairs 

1117 TexasAwnue I Housloo, Texas 770CY2 I 713.222.0290 I .com 
134 


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Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation 

4300 Lyons Avenue, Suite 300 

Houston, TX 77020 

July 17,2017 

The Honorable Senator Mike Crapo, Chair of the Banking Housing and Urban Affairs Committee 

239 Dirksen. Senate Office Bl~ 

Washington DC 20510 

The Honorable Senator Sherrod Brown. Ranking Member of the Banking. housing and Urban Affairs 

Committee 

713 Hart Senate Office Bldg. 

Washington DC 20510 

Gentlemen: 

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation (Fifth 

Ward CRC), we, Rev. Harvey Clemons Jr. Founder, and Kathy Flanagan Payton, CEO, excitedly offer 

this letter or recommendation on behalf of Neal Rackleff, on his nomination and confirmation as 

Assistant Secretary for the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development- Community 

Development and Planning. As the former Director of the City of Houston's Housing and 

Community Development Department, Neal committed both resources and technical assistance to 

ensure the comprehensive revitalization of one of Houston's oldest and economically challenged 

neighborhoods, the 510 Ward. 

Local community leaders launched the Fifth Ward CRC in 1989 to spur development In a 

neighborhood experiencing disinvestment To-date, the Fifth Ward CRC has built or repaired more 

than 1,000 housing units; introduced the community's first mixed-use development offering 24 

Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) units and 10 commercial suites; sponsored public art 

installations in with local artist; built and maintain community pocket parks and green space; host 

an annual arts festival attracting thousands of residents and visitors; and with the help ofDirector 

Rackleff partnered with The City of Houston and Texas Southern University to redevelop the 

historic DeLuxe Theater into a new performing arts venue. Further, Fifth Ward CRC is a certified 

Housing Counseling agency and provides counseling to help first time homebuyers and low· 

moderate-income residents become homeowners or prevent foreclosure and better manage their 

finances throughout the City of Houston. The Fifth Ward CRC also administers the Tax Increment 

Reinvestment Zone for 5th Ward (TJR218). 

During Director Rackleffs tenure, he was an advocate for strategically planned development that 

offered housing opportunities for those who were traditionally underserved. As Director, he was 

insistent on a balance of housing and economic development strategies that help grow 

impoverished communities. Director Racklefl's work started long before his role in city 

government, has he offered his legal counsel in structuring LIHTC projects in 5"' Ward and 

throughout Houston alike. Much to his credit, the 5"' Ward community proudly boast about the 

visible changes and Investments being made in our community today. 

Sdt Ward, a great place to live, work, & play! 
135 


71817075.eps

These changes include Fifth Ward CRC's expanding services to focus on economic development 

especially on Lyons Avenue where recent studies identiFy the most potential. in addition to the 

DeLuxe Theater, we have attracted four new businesses to the Avenue, Yes Prep Charter School, 

and new Legacy Community Health Center and acquired land to facilitate several new 

developments to include new housing and a health and well ness center and currently in 

conversations with a grocer for new retail opportunities. 

As such, Fifth Ward CRC and the So> Ward Community are proud to support Neal Rackleff, a 

candidate who is not afraid of tackling tough issues and tough neighborhoods. His balance or 

science and passion allows communities to flourish. We are forever grateful for his work in making 

Houston and 5" Ward a better place to live work and play. Neal Rackleff is a great choice! 

Humbly Submitted, 

~~{!tt.t.a~tt!Jr.. 

Harvey Clemons Jr., Founder 

%~Y~r· Kathy Flanagan Payton. CEO 

Sdt Ward, a great place to live, work, & play! 
136 


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COALITION Jutyt6,2ot7 

ltlR Till 

!10/>.·\[ LESS 

Boord ofDirtCtors 

FY101& 

AbnW•~ns 

eMir 

AlanD<abH 

w ..... snowkn 

Victor Vega 

Muilyn L Brown 

PmiJ<nrtC£0 

The Honorable Mike Crapo 

Senator, Idaho 

Chair of the Banking & Ulban Affairs Committee 

239 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Wasllington, DE 20510 

Dear Senator Crapo, 

It is my pleasure to recommend Neal Rackleff as HUD Assistant Secretary of Community 

Planning & Development. 1 worked with Neal when he served as the Director of Housing 

and Community Development for the City of Houston. He not only served a~ a board 

member of my nonprofit board, Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County, but 

he was also a critical member of the team that created the homeless response system here 

in Houston. 

Neal's experience and expertise brought great value to the governance and oversight of the 

Coalition for the Homeless In his role as board member. He also played a key role in the 

creation of The Way Horne, the homeless response system in Houston. Houston is leading 

the nation in reducing homelessness whicl1 is verified by our annual Homeless Count which 

d(I(Ument~ ~ W?l reduction in the number of people experiencing homelessness since 20U. 

Neal shares in the credit for this success. 

HUO wiD benefit from Nears hands-on experience at the city level and his expertise in 

meeting the housing needs of Americans. I add my recommendation to many others who 

have had the opportunity to know and work with Neal Rackleff. 

Sincerely, 

.. YJ:!.(L_ 

President/CEO 

Cc: Neal Rackleff 

1000 CRAWFOAD • surrt 700 • Housroll, 'flxAs noo•·9000 
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12/Jul/2017 12:00:21 AM 402 408 4726->202·224-5137 112 

From:OE:I COMMUNITIES 402 401 472& 0711112017 22:14 1165 P.002/003 

•t D~l COMMUNITI~S 4_{ COMO<t"1P.opi..Sp.t.. ,,.JIJ • .tyl.. 

July II, 2017 

The Honorable Mike Crapo, Chairman 

US. Stnate Committee on B.tnldna, Housinc, and Urbin Aftiirs 

534 Dirbm St~tt Olin Building 

Washington, D.C. 205 I 0 

T1te Honorable Shenocl Brown. ltanklJll Member 

US. Stnat! Committee on Ban kina, Housina, and Urbin A/fairs 

534 Dirlcsen Stnate Ollkt Building 

Washington, D.C. 20510 

Re: Nomination of Mr. Neal). RackleiT 

COMOAAfi111A()(lU.WIAS 

HWIJ-S.IOl 

~-~~Ill 

Tn: <OM7l·ll00 

FAX: <Ol-19!.1111 

As!Utant Secret1ry for Community PlanniJll and Developmtn~ 

U.S. Departmtnt ol Housin& alld Urbin Oeo.'tlopment 

Greetings. 

Wilh mllfideact and without reserndon I exttod my hi;test recoounencbtion on behalf ol Neal ~ Ractlell in 

support of bis nomination liS Assistant Semury for Community Planning and Development U.S. Department 

of Housing and Urban Development 

filM la!own Heal Radddf bolh pro[essioca!ly ind pmonilly ror mort llwl23 years beginnillg in 1993-94 

when he first an1ved in Houston, Texas. 

My nomt Is Douglas HDSIU!gs. I om o 30-yror CDrttr CDmmtrdol reof estott profwionoL Ny portntrs 

ond I OWII and Opt!Qit 0 fl,IJ()IJ/)00/)()0 multifamily Jtousillg inwsrmtn! pctffolio from OUT Omoho, 

Nebraska offra. 111e portfolio includes housing mmmunirits IOCDrtd In 19 WillS ond ccmistsofmon 

thon I 0,000 housing units. We orr octl~ mtmbm of the Noefonol Mu/tlfomlly Housing Council ond the 

Naefonol ApotDntniAlsodoaM. Our olfiliottd proptrty mo1!0$fmtnr compoey has bet1l oworded the 

Aa:redited "!~nogtmtnl Orpon®lion (AMO} desig1101ion by die lnstlflJ!t of Rtal Escott Monogttner~L 

Through my Interactions w1th Neal I know that he possessts and exhibits the key d1ltracter and ifadership 

traits that wtU as:slst him in fulfiJUng his ll$p0115ibititles at HUD. Additionally, I bm watched him use &QOd 

• judptnt io his lntmafoosln bolh government and business environments aod have worlced dosely with 

~~'' lli~ ~rtt'n~ r,_~ be has shown a strong capacity for creative and analytical thinking. .· "! • • .. •• 

• Neafls dependab!e and demonstrates lnlt!ative. He Is not only a "self·S12rtet' who an set when things 

need Ill be~ but also Is a ditigtnt worker who allocattS proper tlrne to make sure prioriliud goals 

""~Jffld. ti;f' J ~ ~ 

l 

~ 

l!eil understands tilt concepts a.ssodllt!d with a missloo in bolh the private and public seaor. He bas 

and carritd-out goals and obf«tiyts a.nd has worked botll independently and jointly with 

<l i§ffom to succi!SSfully mmplete tasks In support of the larger mlsslon~riented objeatm 

• Neal is respectful ol others and is consistently responsive. He worlcs wei in a team atmosphere and 

r=&nlztS bolh the need to contribute perso~lly and the benefits that come from tile eiTorts or · others. He is personable and finds enjoyment In his working assodations. 

www.deicommunities.com 
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12/Jul/2017 12:00:21 All 402 4084726->202·224·5137 

From:DEI COMMUNITIES 402 408 4726 07/11/2017 22:55 1166 P.003/003 

• Neal is particularly adept in building consensus with individuals from disparate backgrounds. He is an 

active learner who is genuinely interested in creating P3 solutions to today's housing ch411enges. 

• Neal h4s the capadty and technical expertise to succeed In this role. He has vast experience in 

developing viable communities that provide decent housing. a suitable living environment and 

exPanded economic opportunities for low and moderate inrome persons. 

• Neal also has a unique ability to ronnect with the "'ow and moderate income persons" the Department 

is attl!mpting to assist and h4s demonstrated his wiUingness through consistent behavior and personal 

effort to Jrulke their lives better. 

Again, I give my unconditional recommendation of Neal). Racldeff. Please contact me with any questions or if I 

might respond further. 

t0l031Strea I 011\al\6, Nl68127 

402.408.4027-

402.<08.4)2) ,., 

40l.JOS.8842cet 

WWI'f .deiconmJnities..com 
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= = North Houston District 

July14, 2017 

The flonorable Mike Crapo, Chair 

Banking. Housing and Urban Affairs Committee 

239 Dirksen Senate Offke Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Chairman Crapo and Ranking Member Brown, 

The Honorable Sherrod Brown, Ranking Member 

Banking. Housing and Urban Affairs Committee 

713 Hart Senate OffiCe Building 

Washington, DC 205!0 

I am writing to recommend Neal Rac:kleff for confirmation as the Assistant Secretary of Community Planning and 

Development at the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

In April 2016,the North Houston area experienced a signif~<ant flooding event. In our District, more than 1,800 

apartment units were flooded, severely impacting thousands of low and moderate income Houstonlans. Most lost all of 

their belongings and rMny were forced into emergency shetters in the area. 

Under Mr. Rackleff's leadership, Houston's Housing and Community Development Department immediately mobHized to 

help those who were impacted. He assigned mu"iple members of his executive team to our area to better understand 

community needs and to help identify sustainable solutions for displaced families. 

One could argue that is the work of such a department but what stood out was Mr. Rackleff's personal involvement 

Even with the requirements and responsibilities of leading the day·to-day operations of his department, Neal was here 

in the area. frequently in the evenings and on weekends, wortlng to aid In the recovery. 

Since leaving the Ctty of Houston, Mr. Rackleff remains committed to pursuing high-quality community development and 

opportunities for community members. He partners with us to think creatively about new, much·needed affordable 

housing options for our District. 

It is this passion, along with his expertise in developing and nurturing partnerships, that wiO make him so valuable as the 

Assistant Secretary of Community Planning and Development. 

Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Greg ~ Simpson, President 

North Houston District 

16945 Northchase Drive, Suite 1900 I Houston, TX 77060 I Ph. 281·874-21311 northhouston.org 
140 


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July 19, 2017 

The Honorable Senator Mike Crapo 

Chair of the Banking, Housing & Urban Affairs Committee 

239 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington DC20510 

The Honorable Senator Sherrod Brown 

Ranking Member of the Banking, Housing & Urban Affairs Committee 

713 Hart Senate Office Building 

Washington DC20510 

Dear Senator Crapo and Brown: 

I am writing to give my personal recommendation of Neal Raddeff for HUD Assistant Secretary of 

Community Planning and Development. I am a parent of a child with a disability and the foonder of a 

nonprofit corporation dedicated to serving the needs of individuals with developmental isaba~ies. My 

family and our son are benefiCiaries of what is provided by HUD through public services and affordable 

housing. 

I have worked w~h Neal over the last five years in Houston aod can assure you he is the best candidate 

for Assistant Secretary that you will find. He has the aedentials for the position and the ethics and morals 

that we aU want to see in government offidals. 

My hope is that he will be nominated. If so, I believe we can expect great things to happen to help our 

country and those in need. 

Thank you for yoor consideration of Neal. I assure you he win be an asset to HUD and to those that work 

w~him. 

Sincerely, 

Kimberly Ann Brusatorl 

Founder /Director 

The Village leamlng Center Inc. 

281-794-4122 
141 


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&. 

~) 

SEARCH 

July 14, 2017 

The Honorable Senator Mike Crapo 

Chair of the Banking, Housing & Urban Affairs Committee 

239 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington DC 20510 

Dear Senator Crapo: 

1.015 Cmli ~ Ave. llou$ton, lJ( 770Cfl. 

p~-one m.m.nsz fax 713.7l'l.n 06 

SWCiflometess.OIJ 

I am thrilled "1th the prospect of Neal Rackleffbecoming HUD Assistant Secretary of 

Community Planning and Development and send you my unfettered support for Mr. Rackletrs 

confirmation. 

I've worked in this field ofhomelessness for 25 years in Houston!Harris County and have 

witnessed our local government, private sector community, and other caring churches and 

organizations struggle to make progress in reducing homelessness. After Neal Rackleff accepted 

the very challenging role as director of the United States' fourth largest city's housing and 

community development depanmen~ he successfully altered this city department to more 

strategically and rapidly make significant impact and to better manage very complex resources. 

In addition to generating positive changes within the City department, Mr. Rackleff was one of 

the key leaders in making Houston a national model on how a major city can create systems 

change to effectively end veteran hornelessness (which we accomplished by mid-20 15} and soon 

to achieve an end to chronic homelessness. Mr. Rackletrs critical thinking, relationship building, 

and leadership skills have served our diverse community well in motivating and leading people 

and major institutions to think and act with urgency as they drive for thoughtful positive change. 

SEARCH is a leading homeless service provider in greater Houston. As the CEO of this 

mission for the past 10 years, I've recognized the critical differences in leaders who can drive 

change and Olhers who simply manage resources Mr. RackletTis a highly intelligent change 

agent, outside thinker, and partnership builder. As SEARCH and our partners continue to 

work strategically to end homelessness in Houston and share our learning with others 

throughout the nation, we are confident that our entire nation would benefit from Neal 

Rackletrs ability to drive change from this key leadership position. 

Sincerely, 

~(If; 

ThaoCostis 

President & CEO 

PllOVtD!NG HOPE • CREATING OPPOilTUNlTY • TllANSFOill\llNG LIVES 
142 


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1ft jf;bitat I Aflillate of 

' for Humanity• ~~~ 

July 18,2017 

P,71J.671.999J 

F: 711611.92\ll 

The Honorable Senator Sherrod Brown-Ranking Member of the Banking, Housing & Urben Affairs 

C<lmmittee 

713 Hart Senate Office Building 

Washington DC 20510 

Dear Senator Brown, 

This letter is written to support the appointment of Neal Racldelrto 5ei'VC as HUD Assistut Secretary 

of Community Pluni.g and ~vdopmeat. 

Neal has brought a oommitmenl of service to the Houston community, which I had the privilege of 

witnessing first-hand. 

As Director of Houston's Housing and Community De\<elopment Depattmen~ Neal has often been called 

upon to lead the city's affordable housing and neighbolhood revita5zation initiatives in the Greater 

Houston area. But it was one particular instance that allowed me to see this close up. During the 

Memorial Day weekend of2015, one of our most cherished oeighbodloods, Meyerland, suffered a 

devaslaling flood. Neal called me on that Sunday, as well as city departments (safety,lr3sb, health, etc.), 

Interfaith Ministries, churches, synagogues, and United Way to help with the housing issue. Many 

residents were older and completely flooded out of their homes. It was crucial that we came together to 

tackle the crisis. Neal was instrumental in getting this done. 

His dedication to the affordable housing piece was demonstrated with our pa1111ersbip with LARA Jots 

(Land Assemblage Redevelopment Authority)- wb~h enabled us to bu&lots for an affordable price. We 

built 17bomes on those lots in the historic- although impoverished-5 Wan! community, where 800/o 

lived below the average medium inoome. 

l have known Neal over 4 years, and have heen impmsed with the thoughtful recommendations he has 

provided for Houston Habitat for Humanity to assist the City of Houston and the communities they serve. 

Neal is organized, resourceful, ex11tmely competen~ and has great rapport with people of all ages. His 

ability to creatively forge partnerships among various levels of civic and community are extrnordinary. 

Neal has always displa)'ed a high degree of integrity, responsibility, and compassion. He is definitely a 

dedicated leader. His good judgment and mature outlook ensure a logical and prac:tical approach to 

whatever issues he undeftakes. I highly recommend Neal Rackleff for this esteemed position, and we in 

Houston are confident that he will serve the U.S. Department of Housing and Urben Development with 

the same devotion as he has served us. 

Houston Habitat for Humanity 

3750 N. McCarty Si. j Houston, TX 17029 

0: (713)671·9993ext. 2M 

ahav@houstonhabitat.O!i 
143 


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Holly Davies, MBA 

founder, Willow Meadows CERT 

4410 S.lverwood Drive 

Houston, TX 77035-3636 

Holly_O.vies@sbcgtobal.net 

(713)-292-7023 

The Honorable Senator Mike Crapo 

Chair of the Banking, Housing & Urban Affairs Committee 

239 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington OC 20S!O 

July 16,2017 

In re: Ileal Roctlefffor HUD Assistant Secretary of Community Planning and Development 

Dear Senator Crapo, 

It is not only a great honor, but an absaklte pleasure to provide this letter of recommendation fO< 

Neal R.Jckleff as he seeks employment in our great nation's capitol. I first met Neal during the 

Memorial Day flood of 20lS in Houston, TX, in his capacity as Director of Community D~opment 

fO< the City of Houston. Our neighborhood and the surrounding areas had been particularly damaged 

by flood waters measured in feet, not inches. Neal worked well with the various VOAD (Volunteer 

Organizations Assisting in Disaster) groups, such as the Red Cross, Catholic Charities, Jewish fa ~y 

Services and, or course, our CERT team. He smoothed the path to providing essential humanitarian 

relief in an extremely short period of time, and thus lessened the burden of human suffering due to 

the vagaries of nature. All of this was achieved with great professionalism and a manner that made 

working with Neal a delight 

Nears many strengths include the ability to accurately prioritize needs and work on vital issues fnt, 

and his visionary leadership is amazing to behold. Even so, he is able to synthesize vast amounts of 

information and accurately deploy resources to those areas most deserving. Wrthout llis assistance, 

thousandS of people in the Southwest Houston area, of all economic strata, would have been hardpressed to piece their lives together. He works extremely well with people of all persuasions and is 

able to bridge gaps of many groups and cultures. 
144 


71817085.eps

finally, Neal brings a strong personal and work ethic to everything he does and has proven himself, as 

his excellent track record testifies.. I could not recommend a better person for the position for HUO 

Assistant Secretary of Community Planning and Development. I am confident that Neal will wrpass 

any expectations in this new role. 

Should you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at the above address. 

I ema n~ 

Truly yours, 

Holly Davies 

cc: Senator Sherrod Brown 
145 


71817086.eps

Greater Greenspoint Redevelopment Authority 

July 17, 2017 

The Honorable Senator Mike Crapo 

Chair of the Banking, Housing & Urban Affairs Committee 

239 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington DC 20510 

Dear Senator Crapo: 

I highly recommend Neal Rackleff for the HUD position of Assistant 

Secretary of Community Planning and Development. I've known Neal 

for over twenty years. I've watched him work full time forthe City of 

Houston while attending Law School in the evenings. His goal has 

always been directed to promoting housing and community 

development for those less privileged. This is evidenced in his work 

history and the jobs he chose as his career path. 

Neal is dedicated and passionate and I person I trust completely on 

many different levels. I am proud to call him my friend. I know Neal will 

be a great asset to this administration. If you have any questions about 

my recommendation for Neal, please contact me at 

sbradford@greensooint.org or by cell phone at 713-291-2978. 

Sincerely, 

Sally Bradford 

Executive Director 

The Greenspoint Redevelopment Authority 

16800 Greens point Park Drive, Suite 160S 

Houston, TX 77060 

16800 Greenspoint Park Drive, Sre. 160 Soutll, Houston, TX 77060 • (281) 877·9952 • Fax (281) 876-4688 
146 


71817087.eps

Mia Hinojosa 

VP, Texas Gulf Bank 

1626 S. Voss Rd 

Houston, Texas 77057 

7117n017 

The Honorable Senator Mike Crapo 

Chair of the Banking, Housing & Urban Affairs Committee 

239 Diri<sen Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear The Honorable Senator Mike Crapo: 

I am writing this letter of recommendation on behalf of Mr. Neal Rackleff. I met Neal during the 

Memorial Day Floods 2015 in Houston Texas. At the time I was working for Whitney Bank. A 

group of women who lived near the area of town in Southwest Houston met up and started 

knocking on doors to see post flood what we could do to help the community. We were boots on 

the ground created by a mom's and ladies group on facebook. Within a few days I had the 

pleasure of meeting Neal at mission oontrol for one of the many meetings he took with the 

communities that were greatly affected. He immediately said we have to do more, and by the 

next afternoon hod oontacted those to start making bigger shifts to help out so many in need. He 

utilized some of our boots on tlte ground information to create a database that ended up reaching 

so many. I was blown away by his take charge attitude and leadership that I continued on the 

project during all of my spare time. Neal will not only be an asset to become the HUD Assistant 

Secretary of Community Planning and Development, he will become a leader. His knowledge 

and dedication to the citizens in Houston Texas was beyond anything I have ever experienced. I 

am lucky to have been able to work besides him and hope one day I will have that chance again. 

Mia Hinojosa 

YP, Texas Gulf Bank 

Enclosure 
147 


71817088.eps

Oa1•id B. Turkel 

E:cecrdire Dirtaor 

HAJUUSCOUNTY,TEXAS 

COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT 

July 14. 2017 

The Honorable Senator Mike Crapo 

Chair of the Banking. Housing & Urban Affairs Commiuee 

239 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington DC 20510 

8410 Lantern Point Ori1·e 

Hous1oo, Texas 77054 

Tel (713) 578-2000 

Fax (713) 578-2090 

Subject: Confinnation of Mr. Neal Racklefl' as Assistant Secretary of HUD CPO 

Senator Crapo, 

I am writing 11ith regard to the upcoming confii'IMtion hearing of Neal J. Rackleff for the position of 

HUD Assistant Secretary of Community Planning and Development. As Director for almost 20 years of 

Harris County's Community Services Deparlment which has included Housing & Community 

Development. Social Services and Economic Dc1oelopment. and before that, on the Economic 

Development team at the City of Houston. I have known and worked with Neal for almost 22 years. 

Our relationship began 111lcn he was a member of the City Auomey's Office and continued working 

together 111lcn he was an auomey with Locke lord and then as the City· s Director of d1e Housing and 

Community Development Depanmcnt. 

Mr. Rackleff is not only well versed in HUD programs and regulations. but is adept at finding solutions 

to difficult problems both legal and prograntmatic. He is an excellent negotiator (which l lcamcd when 

working with him on various City/County issues) and most imponantly. he operates 11ith a deep sense of 

service to the community. Accordingly, I recommend him highly for the Assistant Secretary CPO 

position. 

J:-4{_ David B. Turkel 

Harris County, TX 
148 


71817089.eps

~o ing Rnonce Corporation __ _ 9545 Kaly fwy, S1.i!t 1GS Phone: (713) 461-2749 

Houston, Ttxos77024 Fox: (713) 467-7598 

July 14, 2017 

The Honorable Senator Mike Crapo 

Chair of the Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee 

239 Dirl<sen Senate OffiCe Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Senator Crapo: 

I am pleased to write this Letter of Recommendation on behalf of Neal Rackleff. I have 

known and worked with Neal over 22 years. During those years, Neal has been very 

instrumental in making deals work, with applied intelligence and legal compass. His 

human touch with aU parties involved in transactions was matched only by his zeal to be 

thorough, forthright and hones~ while not leaving any questions unanswered. His 

aeativity in finding ways to make community projects WOik is his haftmark. broadly 

overshadowed by his spirit and demand for compliance. At groundbreakings and ribbon 

cutting ceremonies, Neal delights the entire audience with humor, yet inspires them with 

hope for a better community. 

Neal is true professional. He will manage with high energy, integrity and fairness. He 

will reach out and touch his staff, while setting higher standards in the expectation of 

productivity and efficiency. His long years of experience in housing, coupled with his 

desire to make housing programs work, wil make Neal Rackleff an exceUent choice as 

Assistant Director of the US Department of Housing and Urban Development and I 

highly recommend his appointment 

Yours very truly, 

Redidc Edwards, President 

------------ www.HoustonHFC.com 
149 


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July 17,2017 

The Honorable Mike Cnpo 

239 Dilksen Seoale Oflice Building 

Washington, D.C. 20510 

Senator Crapo: 

The four hundrtd membm of the Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing 

Providm strongly suppon the nomination of Neal Rackleff to the position of 

Assistant Secretary of the DepartmentofHousingand Urban Developmmt • 

Neal RactleiTbas betn a respected leader in the State ofTexas on affordable 

housing and community development maners. His WOit in the public and 

private sectors bas resulted in the successful and efficient deployment of 

resources to oonsuuct and preserve affolllable housing, stabilize oommunities, 

and provide residents with opportunity for an improved quality of life. His 

multi-faceted skills will be well-suited for this position with the United States 

Department of Housing and Urban Development and we ttust that his smioe 

11ill benefit our oountty. 

The Texas Aflilialion of Affordable Housing Providers is tbe tr1de association 

for developers of affordable \1-odforoe housing. The organization began in 1998. 

Its membership includes developers, builders, financiers, attorneys and others 

engaged in the process. The members use Low Income Housing Ta.x Credits 

provided by the IRS, which are sold in the private market. This souroe of eapital 

allows these developments to cha!ge rent below market value. Families of entty 

level public sector employees, retail workers and seniors are a few of the 

populations that we serve. 

Thank you for your consideration, 

(Jf.~~ R. L 'Bobby" Bowling IV 

President 

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150 


71817091.eps

CITY OF HOUSTON--------=..~.SY.:..:.Ive:.:.st=er..:.;Tu::..:rn::.: er_ Mayor 

O.Baxl~ 

Houston, Texas 77251- ~ 

July 17,2017 

The Honorable Members of the United States Sena1e: 

Today, I write in support of Neal Racklel'f's candidacy as HUD Assistant Secretary ofCommunily 

Planning and Development. As Mayor, I can attest to Neal's professionalism and achievements 

during his tenure as Director of Housing and Community Development 

During his service with the City ofHoustoo, I had the opportunity to get to know Neal personally. 

Highlighting one aspect that is indicative of his character and effecliveness is his leadership in 

Houston's Homelcssness Initiative. Because ofNeal's leadership, Hooston is now viewed as a 

national model in how to effectively reduce the homeless populalion dli'Ough rapid rehousing. 

Mr. Rackleff focused on best practices in addressing homelessness that lead directly to a nearly 60% 

decrease in overall bomelessness within the last 5 years. He demonstrated the ability to work well 

with subject matter experts, elected officials, and community leaders in a complex policy area with 

compession. 

His in-depth experience with an IUT8Y ofHUD programs while leading the City's Housing 

Department contributed to his successful tenure as Director. 

In addition 10 his affable personality, conviction, and upstanding character, Mr. Rackleffhas 

exhibited a sincere desire to grow and develop. His willingness and desire to serve are admirable 

qualities. His dedication and work ethic combined with his talent have made him the effective learler 

before you today. 

Mr. Racklel'f's leadership has proven to be a positive asset for the City of Houston and my hope is 

our country will benefit from his leadership while serving as HUD's Assistant Secretary. I am 

confident that Neal will represent the United States in an exceptional way. 

I strongly support and recommend members of the Senate join me in supporting Neal Rackleffto 

serve as HUD Assistant Secretary of Community Planning and Development. 

Sin~ty, 

~ Mayor 

Coord- BtendaSirig Jeoy0ov1s ElenR.Cdlen OolghtA.Boylcils --SIMLe G<ogTravis Katloeisroroo Roilert Galegoo lolb l.o$ler Lany v. Gr..., lolb Knox Ol'licl W. Rolll\son Mldlael Ktbooll Amlnla E6ltatdl Jack C1¥lsll6 

Co<*oler:CirlsBr""' 
151 


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Melody H. Barr 

25606 Frilr lllke lllne 

Sprins, Tws 77373 

July 17,2017 

Honorable Senator Mike Clapo 

Chair of the Banklns. Housing & Urban Affairs C4mmittee 

239 Dirksen Senate Offire Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Honorable Sellator Mike Clapo: 

I am a natiYe HoJstonlan and from the beaiMirC of trrr caree< at teftder age of 20 a Publk SeMnL I am 

wtltlnc to p.t my full unwavennc suppoo to Neal Rackt.ff for hts nomination and confirmation to sem as 

HUD Asslmnt Seaetary of Cc<nmunlty Planning and Development. I cannot think of a more deserv'ng or 

more gifted Individual for this position. 

I met Neal more than 10 years ago, while working on one of my first multl·famlly projects. Uttle did I know, 

approximately 5 years later, Neal would become my Director. n was then that I had the opportunity to not 

only wort for him, but to learnunderhlsleadershlp. It was Important to Ne~l that he had a staff that could 

ett the job done, but mGre Important to him was that we learned from each new cNifenJt that came our 

way. 

Under Ne~rs leadership, his team toot on an aggrellive chal'enge to build 2,500 units of Permanent 

Supportive Housing. This challenge was only accepted after researclllng Housing First as a housing model 

option. Neal was so passionate that his conversation with our Mayor at the time began our mission to 

elimlnatint Chronic Homelessne!$. Neal was pan of the Steering Committee that helped Houston end 

Veteran Homet.ssness. While Heal was O'rector, Houston experienced two natu"l d;sasters and the 

shutdown ol a dangerous apartment complex that rtsJited In loss of homes. Neal Is an all·hands on dect 

leaders and the fo'lowing is a list of the mults: 

o Mowd 141 fammes from shelter to hotets- Ap(~ 2016-Tax Day Flood 

o Movtd 99 famines from slum property to permanent housing within 30 days 

o Moved 17 families from tornado hit Apartments to permanent housing within 14 days 

This Is just a snapshot of the work that NeallnRuenced as Housinc Director for the City of Houston. There are 

countless relationships that were created, collaborations, and growth of staff- all under his leadership. 

When Neal came on as Housing Director, there wtre ~Mty 100 HUD find'ngs written up for the City of 

Houston and when Neal left an had bten resolved. 

Apln, I am writing to give my ful support to Neal Rackleff for the next HUD Assistant Seaet<~IY of 

C4mmunlty Plannlnc and Development. 

Respectfully,