Mica says election too far off for some decisions

WASHINGTON (11/6/07)—There are 11 risky months before the elections, and advocacy groups should seek to balance their associations by hiring lobbyists from both political parties, advised Credit Union National Association (CUNA) President/CEO Dan Mica in an interview featured in The Hill. Mica, a former member of the House who represented Florida, said it would be a mistake for a trade group to make any assumptions about the outcome of upcoming federal elections. He advised caution based on how dramatically the political picture can change in a relatively short period of time—to say nothing of 11 months.

In the Mica interview, which appears on the online video feature Hill Tube, the CUNA leader said too many are gambling on a Democratic victory in 2008, rushing to hire Democratic lobbyists based on that prediction.

He said that approach was risky and added that should seek to balance their efforts by hiring both Democrats and Republicans as lobbyists.

"Every body needs to take a deep breath, have a balanced approach," Mica said. "There will always be some Democrats and some Republicans." An advocacy group must be able to work with both sides, he added.

"Obviously you must stick to your principals and the groups you represent. Getting your hair on fire? Getting out on the far end 11 months out because one candidate is ahead in the polls is nonsense."

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