ACU Caucus 2026: Meeting Brings Together Credit Union Movement, Showcases League System Leadership
By CU Today Staff —
WASHINGTON—Credit union leaders, volunteers and advocates from across the country are gathering in Washington this week for America’s Credit Unions’ Congressional Caucus, looking to press industry priorities on Capitol Hill at a pivotal point in the congressional calendar.
The annual gathering takes on added significance ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, with this week expected to be the last time both the House and Senate are in session simultaneously until after voters go to the polls.
"Congressional Caucus brings together the people and organizations that make our movement stronger," said John Bratsakis, chair of the American Association of Credit Union Leagues (AACUL) and CEO of The League of Credit Unions & Affiliates. "The relationships formed and strengthened during this event help ensure that local insights, state-level expertise, and national priorities work together to advance credit unions and the people they serve."
John Bratsakis addresses Caucus attendees.
ACU emphasized league leaders play a significant role throughout Congressional Caucus, participating in the general session, breakout sessions, policy discussions, strategic planning conversations, grassroots advocacy efforts, and meetings with federal policymakers. Their presence helps connect national advocacy priorities with on-the-ground intelligence gathered through year-round engagement with state legislators, regulators, and community leaders, ACU added.
As part of this year's program, Bratsakis addressed attendees from the Congressional Caucus main stage, offering reflections on the critical role relationships play in successful advocacy and highlighting the collaborative partnership between Leagues and America's Credit Unions.
Bratsakis emphasized that while advocacy is often measured through legislative outcomes, its true foundation is built through trusted relationships developed over time. He highlighted ways Leagues and America's Credit Unions work together to ensure local perspectives inform national priorities and national resources strengthen local efforts.
"Advocacy is about relationships," Bratsakis noted. He emphasized how League leaders cultivate trusted connections with policymakers, regulators, and community stakeholders while coordinating closely with America's Credit Unions to advance the movement's shared mission.
"As the movement faces an increasingly complex policy environment, Congressional Caucus remains a powerful reminder that advocacy is most effective when credit unions, leagues, and national partners come together around a shared vision and a shared commitment to the financial well-being of the communities they serve," ACU said.
Originally reported by CU Today.