Allan Hunter

Allan Hunter was an American lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative for California's 9th and 12th congressional districts during the early 1950s. A member of the Republican Party, Hunter's congressional career spanned two terms from 1951 to 1955. Following his time in office, he held significant positions in various organizations, including a notable tenure as the chairman of the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) from 1970 to 1981.

Early life and career

Allan Oakley Hunter was born on June 15, 1916, in Los Angeles, California. He spent his early years in Fresno, where he attended public schools. Hunter's academic journey continued at Fresno State College, where he completed his undergraduate education in 1937. He then pursued a legal education at the University of California, Hastings College of the Law, earning a Bachelor of Laws degree in 1940. After his graduation, he was admitted to the bar and began his professional career as a special agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), a role he held until 1944.

During World War II, Hunter served in the United States Naval Reserve, specifically in the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), which was the precursor to the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). His service included work in England and Germany, where he was part of a special counterintelligence unit under the Sixth Army Group from 1944 to 1946. After the war, Hunter returned to Fresno, where he established a law practice that he maintained until he decided to enter politics in 1950.

House tenure

Hunter's political career began when he ran for the House of Representatives in California's 9th congressional district. In a competitive race, he defeated the Democratic incumbent, Cecil F. White, securing 76,015 votes compared to White's 70,201 votes, resulting in a narrow victory margin. His first term in Congress commenced in 1951.

In 1952, Hunter was selected as a delegate from California to the Republican National Convention, reflecting his active involvement in party politics. The following year, he ran for a seat in California's newly established 12th congressional district, where he faced no opposition in the election and won overwhelmingly, capturing 99.3% of the vote.

However, Hunter's tenure in Congress was not without challenges. In the 1954 House elections, he faced a formidable opponent in political newcomer Bernice F. Sisk, a Democrat. In a closely contested race, Sisk defeated Hunter, marking the end of his congressional career. Hunter's time in the House of Representatives was characterized by his engagement in legislative matters pertinent to his constituents and his party.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in Congress, Hunter was involved in various legislative initiatives and served on committees that aligned with his interests and expertise. While specific details regarding the bills he sponsored or the committees he served on are not provided, it can be inferred that his legal background and experience in housing and finance likely influenced his legislative focus.

After leaving Congress in 1955, Hunter transitioned to a role as general counsel with the Housing and Home Finance Agency in Washington, D.C. He held this position until 1957, when he returned to his law practice in Fresno. His political engagement continued as he participated as a delegate in the 1960 Republican National Convention.

In the years that followed, Hunter contributed to the development and operation of the Rossmoor Leisure World Communities in California, which were significant projects in the realm of housing. His expertise in housing and community development led to his appointment as chairman of California's state commission of housing and community development from 1966 to 1969.

Hunter's career took a notable turn in January 1970 when he was appointed by President Richard Nixon to serve as the chairman of the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae). In this capacity, he oversaw the nation's largest provider of housing finance, playing a critical role in shaping the organization during a pivotal time in the housing market. His leadership at Fannie Mae was marked by both achievements and challenges, particularly in navigating the complexities of housing finance and addressing the needs of low-income housing.

Throughout his tenure, Hunter faced scrutiny regarding the organization’s focus on profitability versus its mission to stimulate mortgage lending for low-income housing. Tensions arose between him and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Patricia Roberts Harris, leading to calls for his resignation. Despite the challenges, Hunter remained in his position until 1981, when he was succeeded by David O. Maxwell.

After retiring from Fannie Mae, Hunter expressed concerns about executive compensation within government-backed corporations, advocating for more reasonable salary structures. He retired with a pension that reflected his long career in public service and corporate leadership.

Allan Hunter passed away on May 2, 1995, in a hospital in Bethesda, Maryland, following a heart attack. His life and career reflect a commitment to public service, law, and housing finance, leaving a legacy that spans both political and corporate realms.