Capitol Eyes 11.19.2020

Legislators Say Thanks

Legislators are showing their thanks for Activists' support during the 2019-2020 election cycle.

Your contributions mattered, as Activists supported 124 candidates running for office through WCULAF and individuals' CU Members' Conduit accounts. 95% of the dollars contributed this election went to candidates that will be in elected office in January.

Much like the legislators-elect, The League is appreciative of your engagement in 2019-2020! Your contributions increased credit unions' ability to support our friends running for elected office, providing a record $194,764 to help in their election or reelection.

CUNA Post-Election Webinar

A recording is now available of CUNA's post-election webinar, discussing the impact of the 2020 election on credit unions.

Recording of CUNA Post-Election Webinar >>

New Leaders and Members in the Wisconsin State Legislature

The 2021-2022 state legislative leaders are listed below. Additionally of importance, Rep. John Nygren (R-Marinette) and Sen. Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) were appointed Co-Chairs of the budget-writing Joint Finance Committee.

State Senate

Senate Republicans

• Senate Majority Leader- Devin LeMahieu (R-Oostburg)
• Senate President- Chris Kapenga (R-Delafield)
• Senate President Pro Tempore- Patrick Testin (R-Stevens Point)
• Senate Assistant Majority Leader- Dan Feyen (R-Fond du Lac)
• Senate Caucus Chair- Van Wanggaard (R-Racine)
• Senate Caucus Vice Chair- Kathy Bernier (R-Chippewa Falls)

Senate Democrats

• Minority Leader- Janet Bewley (D-Mason)
• Assistant Minority Leader- Janis Ringhand (D-Evansville)
• Caucus Chair- Jeff Smith (D-Eau Claire)
• Assistant Caucus Chair - Melissa Sargent (D-Madison)

State Assembly

Assembly Republicans

• Speaker – Robin Vos (R-Rochester)
• Speaker Pro Tempore – Tyler August (R-Lake Geneva)
• Majority Leader – Jim Steineke (R-Kaukauna)
• Assistant Majority Leader – Kevin Petersen (R-Waupaca)
• Caucus Chair – Tyler Vorpagel (R-Plymouth)
• Assistant Caucus Chair – Cindi Duchow (R-Town of Delafield)
• Caucus Secretary – Jessie Rodriguez (R-Oak Creek)
• Caucus Sergeant at Arms – Sam Kerkman (R-Salem)

Assembly Democrats

• Minority Leader – Gordon Hintz (D-Oshkosh)
• Assistant Minority Leader – Dianne Hesselbein (D-Middleton)
• Caucus Chair – Mark Spreitzer (D-Beloit)
• Assistant Caucus Chair – Lisa Subeck (D-Madison)
• Caucus Secretary – Beth Meyers (D-Bayfield)
• Caucus Sergeant at Arms – Kaylan Haywood (D-Milwaukee)

27 New Legislators, 5 Current or Former Reps Move to Senate

The State Assembly will welcome 16 new State Representatives. The State Senate is welcoming eight new Senators, including current Rep. Stafsholt, Felzkowski, Ballweg, Sargent, and former Rep. Kelda Roys. It's important for Activists to start building relationships with these new legislators, to introduce them to The Credit Union Difference, and to the importance of credit unions in their districts.

Bios of the new State Senators >>
Bios of the new State Representatives >>

CUNA Letters to Senate and House Leadership

Last week, CUNA President & CEO Jim Nussle sent letters to Senate Banking Committee and House Financial Services Committee leaders prior to hearings with financial regulators, including NCUA Chairman Hood. 

Letter to Senate Banking Committee >>
Letter to House Financial Services Committee >>