Bumpyjonis, it's not just affordable housing; it is housing across the board. If there were more housing built, there would be more affordable.
You don't say what the government should do except have a policy.
The federal government can be instrumental in housing without being in the building business, or worse, regulating pricing. Putting cash directly into people's pockets would offer more housing choices.
A generous basic income for all in America would go far in solving the problem.
Many thanks.