Rutgers Professor Morris Davis Joins White House Economic Advisers to Tackle Housing Challenges

Rutgers Professor Morris Davis Joins White House Economic Advisers

Morris Davis, a distinguished finance and economics professor at Rutgers Business School, has recently taken a significant step in his career by being appointed to the White House Council of Economic Advisers (CEA). This prestigious role grants him the title of the nation's chief housing economist, where he will be instrumental in shaping policies to tackle pressing housing issues in the United States.

The announcement was made on March 20, 2025, and it highlights Davis’s extensive background in real estate and economic advisement. As the Paul V. Profeta Chair of Real Estate and academic director of the Center for Real Estate at Rutgers, he has been actively involved in educating students since 2014 and participating in high-impact research that bridges academic theories with industry practices. His experience is expected to be pivotal as he steps into his new role at the CEA.

In his advisory capacity, Davis will work closely with President Trump's administration, focusing on developing strategies to increase housing supply and reduce cost-driving regulations. “It’s an honor to be asked to serve our country,” expressed Davis, emphasizing his commitment to making housing affordable for all Americans. This aligns with the current administration's goal of addressing the nation's housing crisis by facilitating the construction of more residential units.

As a recognized expert in the field, Davis's insights will be invaluable. CEA Chairman Steve Miran praised him, stating, “We are ecstatic to have a talent like Professor Davis join us. His innovative ideas are crucial as we strive to make housing accessible once more for American families.”

Davis's goals at the CEA are ambitious. He aims to advise on policies that not only enable the construction of additional housing but also work to streamline regulations that have historically imposed additional burdens on developers and housing markets. This multifaceted approach seeks to ease the pathway for new housing initiatives and ensure equitable access to affordable housing across the nation.

The strategic importance of Morris Davis’s appointment cannot be understated. Given the significant percentage of the U.S. population that resides within close proximity of New Jersey—20% live within a four-hour drive from its state lines—his involvement at the national level is expected to resonate widely.

Davis's extensive work at Rutgers Business School positions him uniquely to draw insights from a rich tapestry of academic knowledge and real-world experience. He noted, “Anything good for New Jersey is ultimately good for the United States and the world,” highlighting a collective vision for real estate improvement.

Rising costs and a constrained housing supply have become hot-button issues, spotlighting the importance of innovative approaches to real estate policy. As Davis begins his term with the CEA, from now until December 2025, his collaboration with fellow economists and policymakers serves as a beacon of hope for easing the financial burden of housing for many across the United States.

In conclusion, Morris Davis’s role in the White House Council of Economic Advisers represents a significant crossover of academic prowess into the realm of public policy. His leadership and experience are expected to facilitate meaningful change in America’s housing landscape, fostering an environment where affordable housing is no longer the exception but the standard for families nationwide.

For more information about Morris Davis and Rutgers Business School, please visit Rutgers Business School.