NAFCU/PAC headed for best year ever

ARLINGTON, Va.-NAFCU/PAC is running full steam to surpass even 1998 election levels in contributions received for the year. NAFCU/PAC has raised more than $83,000 so far this year and NAFCU Director of Legislative and Political Affairs Brad Thaler said he expects to pass the $84,000 mark shortly. Even during the height of the H.R. 1151 battle, contributions to NAFCU/PAC never reached this level. Over the entire election cycle (2001-2002) NAFCU/PAC has raised between $110,000 and $115,000, Thaler said. The PAC rarely reaches over $100,000 per cycle. NAFCU made concerted efforts this year to increase giving from its members and others. The organization added the sales of beanbag teddy bears at $5 and calendars featuring photos by NAFCU staff around Washington, D.C. at $25 with drawings for various prizes, including a television, digital camera, and gift certificates, marked on the dates. Throughout 2002, NAFCU/PAC has contributed over $60,000, Thaler said. He added that there is a possibility of last minute donations from the PAC. Races NAFCU is watching particularly closely include former Financial Services Committee Chairman Jim Leach (R-Iowa), who is in a tight race but does not accept PAC funds; Financial Services Committee Members Paul Kanjorski (D-Pa.) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.); Senate Small Business Committee Member Mary Landrieu (D-La.); and Senate Banking Committee Members Wayne Allard (R-Colo.) and Tim Johnson (D-S.D.). NAFCU/PAC has not yet set goals for next year, Thaler explained, because they want the chance to look at the numbers from the entire year of 2002.