Published on May 26, 2010
EXHIBIT
23.2
CONSENT
OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We
consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement
(Form S-8) pertaining to the 2010 Equity Compensation Plan of MFA
Financial, Inc. of our reports dated February 11, 2010, with respect to the
consolidated financial statements of MFA Financial, Inc. included in its Annual
Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2009, and the
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of MFA Financial,
Inc. filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
/s/ ERNST
& YOUNG LLP
New York,
New York
May 26,
2010