The Maryland and D.C. Credit Union Association has endorsed the challenger in the current race for mayor of the District of Columbia.
District of Columbia City Council Chairman Vincent Gray is running for mayor against incumbent Mayor Adrian Fenty.
In its endorsement, the association praised Gray for his work to increase financial literacy training for students.
"While meeting with MDDCCUA, Gray said he would work with the D.C. Board of Education to develop an appropriate course and described his vision for working with credit unions and others to help develop financial literacy lessons for all levels of DC public schools," the association said.
"Furthermore, Gray supports the idea of incorporating parents into these lessons, as he believes that the reason many children are not being taught the fundamentals of money management is that their parents were never showed the importance of understanding one's finances and credit.
MDDCCUA looks forward to working with Gray to make financial literacy education for students and parents a reality."
MDDCCUA CEO Mike Beall pointed out that "[Gray]'s past support for raising the small business tax exemption from $50,000 to $225,000 shows his commitment to the small business of this city, and his understanding of how vital small businesses are to D.C.'s economy."
The association said it had been particularly impressed by Gray's interest in making the District of Columbia a global financial center. "MDDCCUA believes that this type of pro-business thinking will serve Gray well as mayor and will help bring more jobs and investment to the District. Our District of Columbia credit unions stand ready to help," the association said.
--dmorrison@cutimes.com
