Story perspectives

Trump's 401(k) Plan Faces Housing Supply Criticism

1/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. President Donald Trump administration proposed using 401(k) plans for homeownership.
Economists, including Benjamin Harris of the Brookings Institution, argue the proposal ignores key housing supply issues.
In California, strict zoning and environmental laws have contributed to a housing shortfall and higher competition for homes.
Wayne Winegarden notes California's regulatory framework has yielded a one-million-home shortage, with median prices about twice the national average.

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Story summary

The U.S. President Donald Trump administration proposed using 401(k) plans for homeownership.
Economists, including Benjamin Harris of the Brookings Institution, argue the proposal ignores key housing supply issues.
In California, strict zoning and environmental laws have contributed to a housing shortfall and higher competition for homes.
Wayne Winegarden notes California's regulatory framework has yielded a one-million-home shortage, with median prices about twice the national average.