In a recent article published in CU Times, David Baumann writes of a conversation he had with a creditunion lobbyist who works for one of the national credit union tradeorganizations. In response to a question as to why credit unionshave not had any face time with President Trump, the lobbyistresponded, “I am not concerned about access to thisadministration.” When asked if his association has sought a meetingwith the President, he responded, “We've had a lot of contact withthe administration during the last several months. I'm going toleave it at that.” Translated one may take that to mean theyhave not returned our calls.

Remember now, this was an executive of a national tradeorganization discounting the importance of sitting down with thePresident of the United States to discuss the issues that facecredit unions and the millions of individuals who belong to thosefinancial institutions.

These comments came after banking associations and their membershave already enjoyed two face to face meetings with the individualwho not only appoints credit union regulators but also sets theagenda they are to follow in the financial regulatory arena. Thebankers have had their opportunity to visit the Rose Garden, shakehands with the President, have their pictures taken and are nowable to say “we have access.”