Reps. Sykes & Friedman Co-Convene First Meeting of House Democrats' Housing Affordability Working Group

June 15, 2026 Reps. Sykes & Friedman Co-Convene First Meeting of House Democrats' Housing Affordability Working Group Caucus-wide effort to drive down housing costs as part of Leader Jeffries' affordability initiative WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Emilia Sykes (OH-13) and Laura Friedman (CA-30) co-convened the first meeting of the House Democrats' Housing Affordability Working Group last week. This is one of five member-driven groups launched by Democratic Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08) and the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC) to lower the cost of living for working families. “Housing costs are too high, and families in Ohio's 13th Congressional District and across the country are feeling the strain,” said Rep. Sykes. “We need to build more homes, improve access to financing, and cut unnecessary red tape that slows construction. I'm grateful for Leader Jeffries' trust in me to help lead this working group as House Democrats work to lower housing costs and expand opportunity.” “Nothing is hitting families harder than the cost of housing. I'm committed to making sure people can afford to keep a roof over their heads and give more families the option to purchase a home,” said Rep. Friedman. “I'm grateful that Leader Jeffries and our Caucus have trusted me to help lead this effort. Americans need us to cut red tape, build more homes, protect tenants, and deliver real relief.” The meeting brought members together to begin shaping House Democrats' housing agenda and identify the policies that will deliver the fastest relief for families. Members discussed strategies to drive down rents, expand the path to homeownership, and cut red tape and outdated regulations that hold back new construction. The group also examined ideas to strengthen protections for renters and confront the homelessness crisis. Ranking Member Rep. Maxine Waters’ (CA-43) longstanding work on the House Financial Services Committee will help guide the work of the Housing Affordability Working Group. The five working groups will be responsible for developing policy and legislative proposals at the center of House Democrats' affordability agenda, covering housing, gas and utilities, groceries and goods, caregiving, and healthcare. Print Email Share Tweet