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Sasha Jackson Named Director of Housing Policy Council

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  Published in House and Home on Monday, February 9th 2026 at 12:34 GMT by HousingWire
      Locales: District of Columbia, Virginia, Maryland, UNITED STATES

Washington D.C. - February 9th, 2026 - The Housing Policy Council (HPC) today announced Sasha Jackson as its new Director, a pivotal appointment coming at a time when the United States faces a worsening housing affordability crisis. Jackson succeeds David Dworkin, a long-standing figure in the affordable housing space, who is transitioning to a senior advisor role within the organization. The change in leadership signals a continuation - and potential acceleration - of the HPC's work to advocate for policies that expand access to safe, stable, and affordable housing.

Jackson arrives at the HPC with a wealth of experience, most recently serving as the Senior Policy Director at the National Housing Trust. Her background also includes a significant period as a Policy Analyst at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, demonstrating a consistent focus on the economic factors underpinning housing challenges. This experience positions her well to navigate the increasingly complex landscape of housing policy.

"Sasha has a deep understanding of the intersection of housing and broader economic issues, and she is a proven advocate for policies that advance equity and opportunity," stated HPC Chair Ron Simmons in a press release. "We are thrilled to have her leadership at the helm of the HPC as we continue to fight for solutions to the nation's housing crisis."

The Growing Severity of the Housing Crisis The timing of Jackson's appointment is crucial. While housing affordability has been a concern for decades, the past few years have seen a dramatic escalation in the crisis. Factors contributing to this include a persistent shortage of housing supply - particularly at the entry-level price points - rising construction costs, historically low interest rates (until recently), and increasing demand fueled by demographic shifts and limited geographic mobility. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these issues, leading to increased evictions, job losses, and a widening gap between housing costs and wages.

According to recent reports from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC), the shortage of affordable housing for extremely low-income renters remains acute. Millions of households are severely housing cost-burdened, meaning they spend more than 50% of their income on housing, leaving little for other essential needs like food, healthcare, and transportation. The situation is particularly dire for marginalized communities, who historically face systemic barriers to housing access.

HPC's Role and Future Direction The Housing Policy Council, comprised of 25 national affordable housing organizations, plays a critical role in influencing federal policy. Its members represent a diverse cross-section of the housing ecosystem, including national advocacy groups, Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), and affordable housing developers. The HPC focuses on legislative and policy initiatives designed to address the root causes of the housing crisis and expand equitable access to housing.

Looking ahead, the HPC is likely to focus on several key areas. These include advocating for increased funding for federal housing programs like the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8), the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC). LIHTC, while a cornerstone of affordable housing development, has faced criticism for its complexity and limited reach, and the HPC may push for reforms to streamline the program and increase its effectiveness. Another area of focus will likely be zoning reform, encouraging localities to adopt policies that allow for greater housing density and mixed-use development.

"I am honored to join the Housing Policy Council and to lead this important effort to expand housing opportunity for all," Jackson stated. "I look forward to working with HPC's members and partners to advance bold policy solutions that address the nation's housing crisis and promote equitable communities."

Dworkin's Legacy and Continued Involvement David Dworkin's transition to a senior advisor role ensures continuity within the HPC. His years of experience and established relationships on Capitol Hill will be invaluable to Jackson as she navigates the political landscape. Dworkin's continued involvement provides a bridge between the organization's past and future, offering guidance and support as Jackson implements her vision for the HPC.

Analysts predict Jackson will bring a renewed emphasis on data-driven policy and collaborative solutions. Given her background at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, she is expected to prioritize policies that address the economic drivers of housing insecurity and promote broader economic equity. The challenges are immense, but with a new leader at the helm and a growing sense of urgency, the Housing Policy Council is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of housing in the United States.