ST. LOUIS, Mo. -- Citing its growing political influence and grassroots muscle, the Missouri Credit Union Association said Monday it has started "for the first time in its history" formal endorsements of candidates this November.

In a statement, MCUA said it will determine endorsed candidates based on their public support "of credit unions and credit union issues." The endorsements apply to both federal and state candidates as it listed six state lawmakers it supports, split evenly between Democrats and Republicans.

The group includes Democrats state Sens. Chuck Graham and Tim Green plus Rep. Paul LeVota. On the GOP side, MCUA endorses Sen. Delbert Scott and Reps. Cynthia Davis and Charlie Denison.

"Since we opened our credit union house in Jefferson City in 2003, we have significantly elevated our advocacy efforts by both our presence at the state capitol and our influence with policymakers and state agencies," explained Rosie Holub, president/CEO. "Our endorsement is now valued by candidates because they have learned through our political activity--testimony at hearings, research resource, service on state task forces, etc.--that we can, as consumer advocates, raise awareness and support of critical issues."

Holub, who also is chairman of the National Association of Credit Union Supervisors, said the criteria for endorsement is based on a variety of factors but includes passing CU-supported statutory or regulatory initiatives such as field of membership, helping the underserved and protecting the CU charter.

Instant Insights /

In a First, Missouri CU Association Endorsing Political Candidates

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