Second Criminal Referral Filed Against Fed Governor Lisa Cook Over Property Misrepresentations

Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte submitted a second criminal referral to the Justice Department against Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, alleging mortgage fraud and false statements on a third property.

The referral focuses on a Cambridge, Massachusetts condominium. On April 7, 2021, Cook secured a 15-year mortgage, classifying it as a "second home" for favorable terms like lower interest rates and down payments. Eight months later, on December 1, 2021, she listed it as an "investment/rental property" on a government ethics form. Subsequent filings from 2022 to 2025 maintained this investment status, potentially allowing her to benefit from reduced rates unavailable for higher-risk rental loans.

Pulte also highlighted inconsistencies with two other properties: an Atlanta, Georgia home listed as her residence from 2022-2025 despite evidence of rental use, and an Ann Arbor, Michigan property claimed as a personal residence in 2025 but believed to be rented out. These misrepresentations to the U.S. government raise concerns of multiple violations.

The first referral, sent August 20, 2025, accused Cook of mortgage fraud on Atlanta and Ann Arbor properties before her Fed appointment. She allegedly misrepresented occupancy to secure better loan conditions, prompting DOJ scrutiny. President Trump fired Cook over these allegations, leading to her lawsuit challenging the dismissal.