Free Republic

WASHINGTON - Inland Rep. Joe Baca disputed criticism from a housing advocacy group and another lawmaker that he and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus added to the national housing crisis through overzealous support of programs that enabled unqualified buyers to purchase homes. Baca, D-Rialto, said he has worked to increase responsible homeownership among minorities. He rejected an advocacy group's assertion that the Hispanic caucus was warned about lenders targeting Latino buyers with risky subprime and adjustable rate loans. Baca also denied any link between a $25,000 donation to his own foundation and his decision to co-sponsor housing legislation pushed by the...