When CUNA President/CEO Jim Nussle implored more than 5,000credit union professionals at the GAC last week in Washington to goon the offense over the expected epic fight for regulatory relief,he knew he was speaking to the choir.

Nevertheless, Nussle hopes he gave them something to think aboutwhen they returned home. It's his hope that those credit unionprofessionals will remember his call to action, and in turn, willmotivate thousands more to join the credit union cause.

While it's uncertain whether Nussle's message will drive creditunion professionals to action, Washington insiders said creditunion leaders have more power to influence their congressionalrepresentatives than they may realize.