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Reflections from the 2026 GAC
As we wrap up another powerful GAC, I’m returning home energized by the unity, clarity, and momentum on display in Washington this week. From the mainstage to our Montana delegation’s Hill visits, the message was unmistakable: credit unions remain one of the most effective community‑serving movements in America.
Keynotes & Themes
This year brought a standout lineup of national voices — Rohit Bhargava, Kindra Hall, Dr. Brené Brown, Adam Grant, and New York Fed President John C. Williams — each reinforcing what differentiates cooperative finance in a fast‑moving world.
Scott Simpson’s First GAC as ACU CEO
Scott Simpson delivered a compelling charge to the movement: advocacy is not optional. In his debut GAC remarks, he reminded us that the cooperative model remains under constant pressure — and that our tax status, mission, and member impact must be protected through disciplined, unified engagement.
As he told attendees: "Every one of you can think of one of those stories… stories of humanity that aren’t found anywhere else in retail financial services.”
Montana Represented Well
Montana once again made its presence felt with a strong, collaborative delegation:
- 55 leaders and volunteers
- 14 credit unions, plus Millennium Corporate Credit Union, TruStage, and Montana’s Credit Unions
Herb Wegner Memorial Awards
The Wegner Awards highlighted the best of our movement — programs and leaders who bring to life the “millions of stories” Scott talked about in his speech.
Our Advocacy Messages on Capitol Hill
We met with both of Montana’s senators and Representative Troy Downing, expressing gratitude for their continued support — especially their positions on:
- Opposition to the Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) — a mandate that would reduce access to credit and disrupt member affordability.
- Opposition to credit card rate caps
- Continued support for Don’t Tax My Credit Union
- Support for CDFI resources and the AFFORD Act
The Credit Union Difference — Told Locally
We emphasized what makes credit unions different: real, measurable impact. Scott reminded us that while data matters, one strong member story resonates deeper than any chart in a policy meeting. Attendees shared clear, local examples that capture the Montana credit union difference.
Affordability
A major theme this year was how we deliver affordability. Our focus remained on practical barriers and the concrete ways modernization benefits members.
Fraud & Security
Rising fraud continues to harm families — from check fraud to digital payment scams to account takeovers. Leaders shared concise, real‑world examples that center on member impact, not just operational strain.
Credit Access and Credit Card Mandates
We kept messages practical and member‑focused:
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The CCCA undermines access to fair, affordable credit.
- Rate caps disproportionately hurt the very households that credit unions are built to serve.
Personal Reflection
Every year, I leave the GAC with a renewed sense of both responsibility and optimism — but this year felt different. Maybe it was Scott’s reminder that we’re not just managing institutions but stewarding a national movement. Maybe it was watching our Montana leaders — seasoned advocates and first‑timers alike — speak with conviction about the people we serve. Or maybe it was simply this: our work matters, and when we speak with one voice, lawmakers listen.
This week reaffirmed for me that advocacy is not something a handful of us do in D.C. once a year — it's something every credit union leader can contribute to, every single day.
Call to Action: Get Involved
If you felt even a spark of that energy from reading this — or from hearing updates throughout the week — I want to invite you to take the next step.
Learn more about advocacy. Ask questions. Get curious about the issues shaping our operating environment. And most importantly: join our Advocacy Champion program.
It’s the easiest, most effective way to stay informed, stay engaged, and stay ready to protect the credit union difference here in Montana. Together, we can ensure that the cooperative model remains strong — not just for today’s members, but for the generations to come.
Closing Thought
This year’s GAC reminded me — again — why our work matters. In Montana and across the country, credit unions remain a stabilizing force for families, businesses, and communities navigating economic uncertainty.
And as Scott said, we are stewards of a movement, not just managers of institutions.
Let’s carry that momentum forward — together! Cooperatively, Gerry
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