MBA Supports Pantenaude Nomination as HUD Deputy Secretary

The Trump Administration on Friday nominated Pamela Hughes Pantenaude as Deputy Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.

Patenaude is currently president of the J. Ronald Terwilliger Foundation for Housing America’s Families and former director of housing policy with the Bipartisan Policy Center. She served with HUD as assistant secretary for Community, Planning and Development during the George W. Bush Administration. She had been considered a strong candidate for HUD secretary before President Trump selected Ben Carson.

“Pam’s extensive knowledge of housing issues and dedicated service to this Department under two previous administrations makes her an exceptional choice for the position of Deputy Secretary,” Carson said in a statement.  “She will bring a wealth of experience and steady leadership to HUD in her new role as the Department’s chief operating officer. I look forward to working with her to achieve more efficient and effective housing policies that create jobs, strengthen communities, and ensure safe, affordable housing for all Americans.”

The Mortgage Bankers Association issued a statement of support for Patenaude’s nomination. MBA President and CEO David Stevens, CMB, called Patenaude an “exceptional choice.”

“Personally, I have worked with her for a number of years and she is exactly the kind of leader who will help support the secretary and also address the critical issues ahead for HUD,” Stevens said. “She has a well-informed understanding of the agency, and essential technical knowledge of the real-estate finance industry. I would encourage the Senate to move swiftly in confirming her nomination.”

Patenaude’s confirmation must go through the Senate. No hearing has been scheduled as of yet, but her nomination is not expected to face any major hurdles. MBA Senior Vice President of Legislative and Political Affairs Bill Killmer said MBA will send a letter of support to members of the Senate Banking Committee.