WASHINGTON— America’s Credit Unions President and CEO Jim Nussle said this year’s Congressional Caucus brought more than 360 credit union leaders to Washington, which he described as a strong show of advocacy power.
He highlighted the presence of “super advocates”—leaders with deep relationships on Capitol Hill—who helped carry the industry’s key messages to lawmakers and staff.
Nussle noted the fall will remain active, with leagues continuing to host Hike the Hill visits through October. He said America’s Credit Unions is coordinating closely with leagues on messaging, data, and strategy as the industry presses both defensive and offensive priorities in Congress and with federal agencies.
A highlight of Caucus, Nussle said, was a main-stage conversation with incoming CEO Scott Simpson, who shared candid thoughts on the challenges and opportunities ahead. Simpson also spent time in meetings on Capitol Hill, at Credit Union House, and with advocacy and credit union leaders during receptions and summits. Nussle called it a strong kickoff to Simpson’s transition into his new role.
Nussle also pointed to his and Head of Regulatory Advocacy James Akin’s meeting with Treasury officials on housing and GSE reform as part of the week’s outreach. He stressed that credit unions are intensifying their focus on storytelling, data, and relationship-building with policymakers—momentum carried over from earlier fights to protect the tax exemption. With talk of potential budget reconciliation efforts later this year or in 2026, he warned, credit unions must be ready to defend against renewed tax threats while seizing opportunities to advance their priorities.