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Controversial Consultant Sparks Concerns at FHFA

11/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Bill Pulte, the director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, appointed Mark Zarkin as a consultant for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Zarkin is a controversial figure with a felony sex offense conviction that was later vacated.
He is implicated in a lawsuit alleging a bribery scheme to secure a presidential pardon, but denies wrongdoing.
Pulte's leadership has raised concerns among FHFA staff about personnel changes and Zarkin's undisclosed role.

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Story summary

Bill Pulte, the director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, appointed Mark Zarkin as a consultant for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Zarkin is a controversial figure with a felony sex offense conviction that was later vacated.
He is implicated in a lawsuit alleging a bribery scheme to secure a presidential pardon, but denies wrongdoing.
Pulte's leadership has raised concerns among FHFA staff about personnel changes and Zarkin's undisclosed role.