WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch Trump's Housing Regulator Goes After His Political Opponents
Aug 21, 2025
The head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency launches explosive allegations of mortgage fraud against high-profile Democrats. This unconventional approach raises eyebrows about motivations behind publicizing such claims. The podcast dives into the intersection of law and politics, exploring the concept of 'lawfare' and its implications. It scrutinizes the roles of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in mortgage practices amidst investigations. Legal battles surrounding Trump and the politicization of judicial processes round out this riveting discussion.
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Enforcer Uses Public Referrals
- Bill Pulte of FHFA is publicly accusing high‑profile figures of mortgage fraud using referrals and social media.
- The tactic blurs enforcement with political signaling and raises questions about motive and process.
Pattern Suggests Political Targeting
- Alicia Finley notes the pattern: accusations target Democrats or Trump opponents like Schiff, James, and Cook.
- She suggests the FHFA actions look politically selective rather than a broad enforcement sweep.
Publicizing Allegations Reverses Norms
- Kim Strassel and hosts stress normal law‑enforcement sequencing: investigate first, publicize later.
- Public referrals and calls for resignation subvert standard DOJ discretion and presumption of confidentiality.