Discourse on Capitol Hill Legislative Agenda and the Economic State Linked to Trump as Autumn Approaches

In the latest episode of Housing Developments, NAHB CEO Jim Tobin and COO Paul Lopez delve into the impact of various government policies on the construction industry and housing market. The discussion, which can be watched below or through podcast providers, as well as on NAHB's YouTube channel, covers a wide range of topics.

One of the key points of discussion was the potential of government control in the chip sector. Tobin noted that such a move is rare, yet the possibility was explored in the conversation.

The episode also touched upon the president's immigration policies and their effect on the construction labor market and housing demand. The public round-ups of undocumented people in America have caused turmoil in the construction labor market, and the potential for self-deportations due to these policies may impact housing demand in the future.

The discussion further covered the state of the "Trump economy" after the president's policies have been implemented. Key trade deals signed by Trump using tariffs as a lever were also discussed, with Tobin stating that while tariffs are disruptive, they are being used by the president to remake the world order from an international trade perspective. It was noted that it will take some time before the final look of the new world order is known.

The U.S. has taken a stake in chip maker Intel, and the discussion highlighted the importance of programs funded through Congressional appropriations for home builders and buyers. These include the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), HUD and VA mortgage programs, among others. Particular focus was placed on the Job Corps program, which is vital to workforce development in construction. Tobin stated that taxpayers will continue to be significant for the financing of the Job Corps program in the future.

Feedback on the podcast can be sent to podcast@our website. As Congress prepares to return to Washington next week, with the first order of business being to keep the government open by the Sept. 30 appropriations deadline, the discussion serves as a timely reminder of the importance of these programs for the construction industry and housing market.

Discourse on Capitol Hill Legislative Agenda and the Economic State Linked to Trump as Autumn Approaches