WASHINGTON — America’s Credit Unions is making what it called a record $10 million investment in candidates who support credit unions as part of a nationwide effort to help elect a favorable Congress in the Nov. 3 midterm elections.
In a message to its member credit unions, the association said the investment through America’s Credit Unions PAC and its National Advocacy Fund is part of the credit union movement’s most comprehensive election effort to date.
The strategy combines grassroots mobilization, get-out-the-vote outreach, direct political spending, member communications and efforts to build relationships with candidates, according to the association.
“Our record $10 million investment is to ensure that our industry is actively shaping the policy environment,” said Scott Simpson, president and CEO of America’s Credit Unions. “We are mobilizing our national grassroots base to back candidates on both sides of the aisle who understand that supporting credit unions means protecting access to affordable credit for working families, family farms, and Main Street businesses.”
Candidates In Competitive Races
America’s Credit Unions said 96% of candidates supported by its PAC advanced out of their primaries. More than 340 candidates the association describes as pro-credit union are on general election ballots, including:
- More than 45 candidates seeking open seats.
- Nearly two dozen priority candidates in highly competitive races.
The association said its election work includes raising funds, knocking on doors, engaging voters and encouraging credit union households to vote.
The effort draws on America’s Credit Unions, its PAC, the state league system and individual credit unions, according to the message. The association said that collective advocacy is intended to protect the credit union model and support institutions’ missions of serving members and communities.
Relationships Shape Endorsements
Decisions about which congressional candidates to support are made collaboratively by America’s Credit Unions, leagues and credit unions, the association said.
It said its advocates know and have met with every candidate receiving its backing and have evaluated their positions on policy issues important to credit unions.
Many of those relationships begin while candidates are serving as local or state officials, according to the association. By the time they seek congressional office, some have participated in years of meetings and information sharing with credit union advocates.
America’s Credit Unions said those ongoing relationships provide evidence to guide its support decisions and establish trust before candidates reach Congress.
Resources For Credit Unions And Voters
The association directed member institutions to its Elections Hub for information about supported races, political activities and how credit unions are participating.
It also encouraged credit unions to engage employees, board members and members through Credit Unions Vote, where voters can access registration resources and make Election Day plans.
The association urged members to sustain their participation through the final weeks of the campaign, saying its political work is intended to strengthen credit unions’ ability to serve their communities and advance their priorities on Capitol Hill.
