The Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs held a hearing on October 1, 2026, to consider several nominations by the Trump administration, including Matt Jones’ nomination for Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Commissioner and Assistant Secretary of Housing. This dual role is one of the most consequential positions at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. As the Assistant Secretary of Housing, he would have jurisdiction over HUD’s project-based subsidy programs, such as Section 8 Project-Based Rental Assistance, Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly, and Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities.

Because the hearing was held after the Senate was adjourned early the evening before, it proceeded with a large number of Senators absent. Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) expressed frustration that the hearing was happening without all Senators present, while Chair Tim Scott (R-SC) emphasized the importance of respecting the nominees’ preparation. With so many Committee members missing, the hearing was fairly short. When asked by Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID) about how he would support multifamily housing programs at HUD—which includes Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly, a top priority for LeadingAge—Mr. Jones did not provide any specifics, but indicated he would engage with developers and financiers and find ways to make existing funding go further. The specific topic of older adult housing needs was not raised in the hearing, but LeadingAge has worked with congressional offices to submit questions for the hearing record that emphasize the importance of the multifamily programs serving older adults with low incomes. A confirmation vote has not yet been scheduled by the Senate.