I have serious concerns about the current vacancies in both the FHA Commissioner and the Federal Housing Finance Agency Director positions.

I am afraid that, since 9/11, the message that information sharing is critical has dissipated.

I'm supportive of that and hope that we can give more attention to the people that we think absolutely need attention.

I have grave concerns that with an implicit guarantee from the Federal Government, this agency could be the next big bailout waiting to happen.

People with substantial borrowing power should not make up such a substantial portion of the FHA loan portfolio.

Thank you, Chairman, just a couple of questions quickly. I know we're on a timeframe here, and I appreciate that.

During a recent dinner with the women of the Senate, we decided that, if necessary, we're going to take over the budget negotiations, because we're confident we could produce a budget.

Thank you very much.

I wanted to ask you, as we continue to think about how to create a stronger, safer housing system--managing risk is going to be a central concern.

I think we will begin the hearing.

But we can't overcorrect and create a situation that makes it impossible for people to purchase homes.

I want to applaud the efforts of the Administration under the leadership of Secretary Donovan, as well as former Commissioner Stevens, to bring a renewed focus on managing risk at FHA.

I really worry that we're putting home ownership out of the ability of many middle-class Americans today with that.

The consequences are too great for too many Americans and the Nation's economy to refuse to come to an agreement because of political agendas or pressure.

I personally appreciate the focus you've put on oversight and enforcement that you've just talked about.

I think we need to understand what the consequences of this are, and that's been very helpful.

Are you concerned about a possible double dip?

The elephant in the room of the Congress today is how we are going to come to agreement and avoid a shutdown.