Nussle: My full focus is on advocacy

America’s Credit Unions President/CEO Jim Nussle answered questions about the status of the credit union tax fight, his decision to retire, and the Board’s selection process for his successor in an exclusive Q&A with CUToday.

“I wanted to make sure we successfully address this tax fight,” said Nussle on the timing of him announcing his intent to retire. “To be clear, I'm not leaving now during the tax fight. That's just not the case.”

When asked how this year’s tax discussions vary from previous years, Nussle noted “it’s different” and reflected on his experience from serving in Congress.  

“We've got a dynamic message about how we contribute one-quarter of a trillion dollars to the economy and GDP. That's amazing what credit unions do at a time when half the people in the country are living paycheck to paycheck,” Nussle said, highlighting the importance of being loud to influence policymakers.

“Ninety percent of credit union members say their credit union has helped them in the last year with financial well-being. We are getting it done, and if we can get that story in front of everybody who is not just concerned about who they can’t afford to offend politically, we're going to do just great. I'm encouraged, but I'm guarded in that encouragement, I have to say.”

While there’s no set date for his retirement to ensure a strong national search to find the right leader, Nussle stressed the work that is still to be done.

“My full focus is obviously what’s going on in advocacy, and there’s a lot going on,” he said. While the tax fight is at the top of that list, he also reiterated the regulatory agenda is a big priority.  

“We’re speaking with a united voice on behalf of credit unions, whether it's at home, in their districts, in their credit union buildings,” added Nussle. “Whether it's out in Washington, in hearings, or even in closed-door meetings the credit union difference is being heard.” 

America’s Credit Unions’ unwavering advocacy to protect credit unions’ tax status continues. Engagement in the Don’t Tax My Credit Union campaign is critical, with the House Ways and Means Committee aiming to unveil its proposed part of the budget reconciliation legislation— including tax policy—in early May.