Credit union advocacy advances priorities in states, D.C.

July 17, 2026

With time in Washington, D.C., for the 119th Congress dwindling down ahead of November’s mid-term elections, Leagues and credit unions are working to ensure credit union priorities remain top of mind for policymakers.

The Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago welcomed Rep. Sean Casten (D-IL) for a legislative update recently, hearing the congressman's outlook and sharing credit union priorities.

Along with ICUL staff, Alliant Credit Union EVP/Chief Ethics and Governmental Affairs Officer Meredith Richie, Great Lakes Credit Union Chief Experience Officer Patrick Basler, Healthcare Associates Credit Union President/CEO Joe Kregul, NuMark Credit Union President/CEO Michelle Balog, and Vicinity Credit Union President/CEO Mario Aguire attended. 

Casten, a strong credit union ally, spoke at last year’s Congressional Caucus about supporting additional capital access for credit unions.

The League of Credit Unions and Affiliates traveled to Washington, D.C., this week to meet with multiple members across their states’ Congressional delegations and to attend Wednesday’s House Financial Services Committee hearing with testimony from acting CFPB Director Russell Vought.  More credit union Capitol Hill visits are anticipated next week.