WASHINGTON–Both credit union trade groups have responded to the unprecedented breach of the U.S. Capitol and the related violence by individuals protesting the results of the presidential election. Individually, CUNA CEO Jim Nussle, a former Republican congressman representing Iowa, tweeted that he was very disappointed in the GOP.
US Senate FCU, meanwhile, said it was closing its office in the Senate Hart Office building due to the violence, while Congressional FCU announced its three Capitol Hill offices would also be closed. It said the branch would reopen on Jan. 8.
“We have a tentative plan to reopen the Senate Hart Branch on Monday, January 11, 2021, but will continue to evaluate the situation on Capitol Hill and throughout Washington, D.C., area. Our member's and employee's safety is of top concern during these unique circumstances,” USSFCU said on its website. “We appreciate your patience during this time."
Congressional FCU said on its website members who do not have a House of Representatives I.D. will be required to sign in with Capitol Police in addition to being escorted in and out of its branch in the Ford House Office Building.
CUNA, NAFCU Respond
The CEOs of both CUNA and NAFCU issued statements in response to the events.
“As I watch the assault on the U.S. Capitol unfold, I am first reminded of the oath of office that I once took and to my commitment to the Constitution and the principles which underpin our democracy,” said Nussle in his capacity as CUNA CEO. “What we are witnessing is outrageous, without precedent, and runs counter to our values as Americans.
“Our democracy is facing a crucial test—one that is a culmination of the increasingly polarizing and divisive political environment and one that simultaneously demands we reconcile who we, as Americans, have become with who we should be,” Nussle continued.
“I am confident that the foundation of our democracy is strong, having withstood multiple tests to our national character. This moment cannot be lost on us and presents an opportunity for us to do better and be better.”
Separately, using his personal Twitter account, Nussle tweeted, "I will no longer claim I am a Republican tonight as I am outraged and devastated by the actions of too many elected Republicans (some I know and served with) and supporters. Today a final line was crossed that I will not excuse. The GOP is NO more and left me and others behind."
NAFCU President and CEO Dan Burger also responded to the events that have shaken the nation.
“Regardless of our political ideologies, violence and destruction of property is unacceptable. NAFCU believes in the Constitution and tolerance, and the violent chaos on Capitol Hill is attacking the foundations of our democracy,” said Berger. “This is a sad moment for our country; NAFCU is committed to bringing about changes for a brighter future.”
Response to Georgia Election
Separately, Berger also issued a statement in response to the special election for two Senate seats in Georgia, where Democratic candidates Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock both won. Their victory means the Senate will be divided 50/50 between Republicans and Democrats.
Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris would cast any tie-breaking vote.
“NAFCU congratulates Senator-elect Jon Ossoff and Senator-elect Raphael Warnock on their wins in the Georgia runoff races,” said Berger. “With Democratic control in both chambers of Congress, NAFCU is committed to continuing to work with leadership in a bipartisan manner to advance the interests of credit unions and their 123 million members. To accomplish this, there are many areas where policymakers should be able to find agreement, including increased CDFI funding, member business lending reform, and allowing credit unions to include underserved communities within their field of memberships, among other important reforms.”
Jim Nussle's tweet, below.