WASHINGTON — The new chairman of CUNA called on credit unions to adjust their non-profit/pro-service message to one more closely aligned to the times by emphasizing a voice of reason and balance at the local level.

The political rhetoric and the media "are both becoming increasingly polarized and Wall Street banks and Washington politicians are the poster children for polarization," said Mike Mercer, who was elected Monday at the CUNA Governmental Affairs Conference, said Tuesday as he addressed a general session.

Mercer, president/CEO of Georgia Credit Union Affiliates, told the GAC gathering at the Washington Convention Center that credit unions might now need to adjust their motto.