Acknowledging internal political risks by endorsing a Republican, the Michigan Credit Union League said Friday it is formally supporting the GOP's U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra in his bid for governor.

Calling its early endorsement an enterprising means of showing support for a long-time friend of the industry and one "who does stand up to the bankers in his district," MCUL President /CEO David Adams applauded Hoekstra's CU track record and said the trade group favors his candidacy over four other GOP aspirants.

The GOP winner will face the Democratic successor to the incumbent, Gov. Jennifer Granholm, who is under term limits from running again in the November election. The Michigan primary is Aug. 3. "Congressman Hoekstra has been a champion for policies that help the consumer and these values align with those of the credit union movement," said Adams. "These values are what Michigan needs as it rebuilds its economic strength and strengthens the vital financial interests of its citizens."