First-Time Homeownership

To encourage homeownership in growing areas and prevent urban sprawl, I support offering tax incentives and grants to first-time homeowners who choose to buy in designated regions. These incentives should be strategically aimed at revitalizing communities and promoting sustainable development. In addition, I support continued funding of existing first-time homeownership programs, as many of these programs have lowered the barrier of entry to homeownership in Louisiana and I believe that is even more important as housing prices skyrocket.

Expanding Affordable Housing Options

The lack of affordable housing has reached crisis levels in many parts of the country. Rent is becoming an unsustainable portion of household income, leaving families vulnerable to eviction and homelessness. Affordable housing must be a top federal priority, with policies designed to increase the supply of low-cost homes and provide rent relief.

I will push for increased federal funding for the construction and maintenance of affordable housing units. I want to see that funding focus on both urban and rural areas, ensuring that growth and revitalization are balanced and beneficial to all residents. By incentivizing the private sector and local governments to develop affordable housing projects, we can address the critical shortage that many communities in Louisiana and elsewhere face.

I will also fight for:

  • Build More Affordable Housing: Significantly increase federal investment in the construction of affordable housing units through the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program and other federal grants. This would ensure that housing is available to low- and moderate-income families in both urban and rural areas.
  • Expand Housing Vouchers: Increase funding for Section 8 vouchers, which allows low-income families to afford rent in private housing. The current demand for vouchers far outpaces availability, and expanding this program would help ensure that every qualifying family can receive assistance.
  • Rent Control and Stabilization: Encourage states to adopt rent control policies that limit excessive rent increases and ensure that rents remain affordable for tenants in high-demand areas.

Expanding affordable housing and rent relief programs would reduce homelessness, improve housing stability for millions of families, and help mitigate the spiraling cost of living in urban areas.

Protecting Homeowners Against Subpar Insurers

In storm-prone states like Louisiana, it’s crucial that homeowners have reliable insurance coverage. I believe in stricter regulations on the insurance industry to prevent companies from denying legitimate claims or drastically increasing premiums post-disaster. I will also promote the development of a federal insurance backstop (or public option) to ensure that homeowners are not left unprotected in times of crisis.

Addressing Homelessness

My policy on homelessness is rooted in a comprehensive approach that prioritizes dignity, support, and sustainable solutions for all, with a special focus on our veterans (absolutely NO ONE who wore the uniform of this country should ever find themselves homeless). Central to this vision is the expansion of affordable housing—a critical step towards ensuring that everyone, particularly those who have served our country, has access to safe and stable living conditions. Recognizing that homelessness is often a symptom of broader issues, my policy also emphasizes the importance of robust federal aid programs aimed at providing financial stability for individuals and families during temporary crises, preventing homelessness before it occurs.

Further, leveraging the VA as a central coordinating agency, we aim to fast-track homeless veterans into permanent housing, supplemented by the HUD-VASH program’s resources. Beyond housing, I’m committed to making sure we are offering comprehensive support services, including mental health care, job training, and reintegration programs, to address the root causes of homelessness. This policy is about more than just providing shelter; it’s about creating pathways to self-sufficiency and improved quality of life for everyone in need.

By focusing on building more affordable housing, enhancing federal aid for those in temporary financial crises, and providing holistic support services, we can tackle homelessness from multiple angles. This isn’t just a policy—it’s a pledge to uphold the values of community, compassion, and respect, ensuring no one, especially our veterans, is left without the support they deserve and a place to call home.