Former HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan Discusses the Nationwide Housing Crisis

Former HUD Secretary and Enterprise Community Partners CEO Shaun Donovan addressed the ongoing national housing shortage during an interview on CNBC's "The Exchange" on October 6, 2026, describing the market imbalance as unprecedented.

What did Shaun Donovan say about the housing shortage?

Shaun Donovan stated that the housing supply shortage "is different than we’ve ever seen," according to CNBC's broadcast. The remarks build on previous commentary from Donovan, who stated on CNBC's "Squawk Box" on July 18, 2025, that "Housing affordability is the number one issue in America right now."

What legislative measures are under discussion?

Legislative efforts to address the shortage include discussions surrounding the "21st Century ROAD to Housing Act" and a separate housing bill covered by CNBC on July 9, 2026. According to CNBC's reporting at the time, that July 2026 bill could have become law on a Friday regardless of whether President Trump signed it. Specific texts and outcomes for these legislative packages have not been detailed in the available reports.

How are local policies impacting the housing debate?

Local policy proposals have also factored into the broader affordability discussion. During CNBC's July 2026 coverage, Donovan discussed New York City Mayor Mamdani's proposed rent freeze alongside nationwide supply metrics. The reporting notes that housing challenges span both municipal rent interventions and broader federal supply legislation.