The American Bankers Association (ABA) is piloting a program to help bankers run for state and federal political office in efforts to promote a pro-growth policy environment.
The two-day program is scheduled for Sept. 13-15, 2017, at the Loews Madison Hotel in Washington, D.C. It is designed to give bankers with an interest in public service the tools to succeed in a state or federal race. Program topics include managing paid and earned media, fundraising, and getting out the vote.
“It’s critically important that those casting votes on banking policy fully understand and appreciate the impact their decisions will have on a community and its residents,” ABA President and CEO Rob Nichols said. “When it’s time to set banking and economic policy, we strongly believe nothing beats real-world banking experience.”
Presently, only 18 of the 535 current members of Congress have a banking background.
“Bankers are already in the business of serving their communities, through their bank and through service on the boards of the local nonprofit, hospital and school system,” Nichols said. “That makes serving in public office more of a logical next step than a giant leap. If you’re a banker interested in public service, we want to give you all the tools you need to run and win your first campaign for office.”
Applications are now open and will remain open until June 1. Applicants must be a banker or bank director with concrete plans to run for state or federal office in the next two election cycles.