How Will the Next President Impact the Construction Industry?

The 2016 presidential election is just days away. Before voting day, here's a look at Hillary Clinton's and Donald Trump's stances on infrastructure and the housing industry, and how their potential presidency might affect the construction industry.

Both candidates have plans to spend on infrastructure, but neither candidate has been too specific about where that money would come from. Jeff Shoaf, senior executive director for government affairs for the Associated General Contractors of America, isn’t optimistic that either candidates’ plan will come to fruition. While increased attention to infrastructure is a step in the right direction, Shoaf doesn't expect sweeping infrastructure reform regardless of who wins. A more feasible approach would be to identify ways to boost the Highway Trust Fund and extend the FAST Act.

As for the housing issue, there's been a lack of attention paid to this issue during this election cycle. “The campaign seems to be dominated by emails and audio tapes, but not kitchen table issues that American families care about," said Jim Tobin, executive vice president and chief lobbyist at the NAHB. Trump has made promises to cut regulations, which appeals to homebuilders. “That’s one of the key differences between the candidates,” Tobin said. “Donald Trump would be a little bit more careful about rulemaking in the course of his term. On the converse, Clinton will use the regulatory process much in the way Obama has.”

Clinton has discussed reforming Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which also appeals to homebuilders.

(more on how a Trump or Clinton presidency might affect the construction industry...)