Pub. 15 2018 Issue 1

O V E R A C E N T U R Y : B U I L D I N G B E T T E R B A N K S - H E L P I N G N E W M E X I C O R E A L I Z E D R E A M S 10 Political engagement is more than a contribution in an election year or contacting your lawmaker during an important vote. WASHINGTON UPDATE G o vote. Every election we hear about the importance of voting. And it is extremely important. But as an industry that touches every community in America, I’d argue that bankers need to do more than just vote; we must be politically engaged year-round, even and odd-numbered years. Political engagement means so much more than just voting or giving to campaigns, though both are important ways to make your voice heard. Political engagement is a holistic ap - proach that, when executed appropriately and thoughtfully, can make a big difference both inside and outsides the walls of government. ABA, state bankers associations and our members have helped build and defend the foundation of the American economy for nearly 150 years. Now we’re bringing our all-Amer - ican values to the halls of Congress, standing with candidates and legislators of both parties that appreciate the critical role banks play in the economy. Political engagement is about doing our part to keep the American dream within reach for bank customers, clients and communities. To recognize and elevate the importance of political engagement, both as an organization and on behalf of bankers everywhere, ABA has fully integrated our BankPac, grassroots, inde - pendent expenditure and voter education efforts to speak with one voice under the ABA brand. To that end, we are: BY ROB ENGSTROM, CHIEF POLITICAL STRATEGIST American Bankers Association Stepping Up Our Political Engagement