government as directors of the dlum's office of latino affairs. hud's use of the disparate inpact theory, even without any direct discriminatory intent has increased in recent years and is a concern of mine. it's important that each of these nominees today understand the impact of their broader decision on our economy. i look forward to the sthouts of the nominees on how we can properly balance these rules with the needs to keep our markets competitive in the global economy. thank you, mr. chairman, for holding this hearing. i look forward to it. >> thank you, senator creper. would any other senators like to make an opening statement? >> i'm not going to make an opening statement because i don't like for any of us to do that other than the two of you. but i am going to say something, okay? >> go ahead. i had the opportunity to meet with our three fed nominees and spend an extensive amount of time. i'm not going to stay here and ask questions. i'm glad we're able to get the other two nominees in today. what i want to say is i want to thank the two