Election Season Begins as Advocacy Efforts Remain Strong

As legislative sessions conclude across the Cornerstone region, attention is quickly shifting to election season and fundraising efforts.

In Texas, primary runoff elections finalized several key races for U.S. Senate, attorney general, and Congress, helping shape the political landscape ahead of November. President Trump’s endorsement of Ken Paxton, which led to John Cornyn losing his seat, is one of a series of targeted primary challenges that has gotten national attention.

In Missouri, state Sen. Rick Brattin's entry into a congressional race has added momentum to an already closely watched contest, with fundraising, endorsements, and campaign activity beginning to intensify. Meanwhile, Arkansas voters recently participated in the special election process to fill the House District 44 seat, providing an early glimpse into the state's evolving political landscape.

Regional Advocacy Efforts Strengthen Relationships

While campaigns increasingly take center stage, credit union advocacy efforts remain active throughout the region. In Arkansas, the South-Central Arkansas Chapter of Credit Unions hosted a legislative discussion with Rep. Rick McClure and Sen. Kim Hammer, giving credit union leaders an opportunity to discuss the recent fiscal and special sessions, upcoming elections, and emerging issues such as artificial intelligence, digital currencies, and fraud prevention. The event also helped strengthen relationships between lawmakers and the credit union community while highlighting the challenges and opportunities facing credit unions and their members.

In Kansas, credit union leaders and advocates gathered for Cocktails and Credit Unions to celebrate the passage and signing of HB 2591, recognize the legislators who helped make the legislation possible, and raise funds for Kansas CUPAC. Events like these play an important role in building relationships with policymakers, increasing awareness of credit union priorities, and supporting ongoing advocacy efforts at the state level.

"Strong relationships and consistent engagement are what drive successful advocacy," said Mark Seale, Cornerstone's senior vice president of advocacy. "Whether we're discussing policy priorities with lawmakers, supporting PAC fundraising efforts, or preparing for upcoming elections, credit unions continue to demonstrate the power of a united voice."

Several advocacy and PAC events are also on the horizon, including Back Your PAC at the Ballpark on June 26 in Springfield, Missouri; Hike the Hill in Washington, D.C., July 21-23; Missouri's 2026 Legislative Summit on Aug. 4; and the Sporting Match for PAC Kansas on Aug. 19.

As the election cycle accelerates and preparations begin for future legislative sessions, Cornerstone's advocacy team will continue monitoring developments, engaging policymakers, and advancing the priorities of credit unions across the region. Credit unions' continued participation in advocacy and fundraising efforts remains essential to ensuring the industry's voice is heard at every level of government.