The National Association of Home Builders recently named Barney Frank (D-Mass.) its 2008 Federal Official of the Year for his support of legislation designed to boost America’s housing market.

“From city halls to the halls of the U.S. Capitol, you'll find government officials who understand the importance of housing to the economy," said NAHB chief lobbyist Joseph Stanton. “Rep. Frank is a champion of housing and we are proud to honor him today.”

As chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, Frank has worked to make housing more affordable and increase liquidity in the nation’s struggling housing market, NAHB officials said.

Frank said he was honored to receive the award.

“Housing is a central element to driving the American economy," he said. “We will do everything we can to promote homeownership and we will also help those who can't afford a home.”

Stanton said Frank has been a good friend to U.S. home builders.

"With the U.S. housing market now in the most pronounced downswing since the Great Depression, Chairman Frank's strong leadership has brought a keen focus to the problems our industry is currently experiencing, while providing much needed legislative solutions to help consumers, housing and the economy," Stanton said.