Kathy Kraninger

The newly sworn-in director’s first public remarks seemed to contrast with the approach of her predecessor, Mick Mulvaney, who at times questioned the role of the agency.

The Trump appointee officially took over for Mick Mulvaney as head of the agency following her Senate confirmation last week.

Kraninger's nomination was lauded by industry groups, but vigorously opposed by consumer groups and Democratic lawmakers.

Democrats on the House Financial Services Committee are expected to shine a spotlight on Trump-appointed regulators, but that light might shine brightest on one agency in particular.

A motion to limit debate on the nominee to run the consumer bureau passed along strictly party lines, setting the stage for her to be confirmed as early as next week.

Kathy Kraninger, who may get a confirmation vote as early as this week, has suggested a similar vision to that of the agency’s current acting chief. But some see signs she could bring a different approach to the job.

Majority Leader Mitch McConnell filed a motion for cloture on the nomination of Kathy Kraninger to run the agency, setting up a potential vote later this month.

The housing finance agency, which is increasingly at the forefront of reform discussions, has been without a permanent chief for almost two years.

At least six Trump administration picks to fill financial posts are still pending, but the bitterly partisan divide over Judge Brett Kavanaugh has taken up most of the energy in Congress.

Kathy Kraninger has been tight-lipped about her plans for the consumer bureau, but some point to signs that she could curb the agency's power by reducing staff and other costs.