The Association of Independent Mortgage Experts (AIME) is teaming up with lobbying firm Forbes Tate Partners (FTP) to further broker representation in government affairs.
The partnership is a step forward for AIME’s Government Affairs Committee, founded in 2021.
“The broker community is thrilled that Forbes Tate will represent our interests in government affairs,” said Katie Sweeney, CEO of AIME.
“The strategies they’re advancing will effectively suit our needs by growing our footprint, increasing our impact, and building our reputation exponentially. Additionally, they will help us fight for a voice for the broker channel and champion consumers from all backgrounds.”
FTP is a bipartisan public affairs firm specializing in government relations, traditional and digital communications, grassroots advocacy, third-party coordination, insights, polling, coalition management, and business development.
Kelley Williams, FTP senior vice president and former VP of Government Affairs for the Mortgage Bankers Association, will head the push as lead lobbyist.
Managing director Jeff Strunk and senior vice president Trevor Hanger will act as advisers.
“We are eager to support AIME’s ambitious goals and the direction their advocacy work for both mortgage brokers and diversified consumers is heading in,” said Williams.
AIME’s next broker lobbying move will be a Consumer Advocacy Committee with Subcommittees focused on Black, Hispanic, and Veteran Homeownership.
“Several exciting updates will soon be available, including the opportunity for this group to dig deeper into specific lobbying initiatives,” said Brendan McKay, President of Advocacy.
“The fact that black homeownership is at a low point compared to a decade ago, the wealth gap between Hispanic and white Americans persists, and Veterans are often taken advantage of when obtaining a mortgage or refinancing should be our focus, as well as other challenges the broker community faces.”