CU-backed candidates win Virginia, California contests

WASHINGTON (11/5/09)--Credit union leagues nationwide took part in Tuesday's elections, and credit union-backed candidates have gained two prominent positions.

New Congressman John Garamendi, who was supported by the California Credit Union League and the Credit Union National Association (CUNA)'s federal political action committee, the Credit Union Legislative Action Council (CULAC), will serve California's 10th Congressional District, which spans Contra Costa, Solano and Alameda counties in Northern California.

Garamendi defeated Republican challenger David Harmer by earning 53% of the total vote. Garamendi, who has also served as lieutenant governor and state insurance commissioner, became the Democratic nominee earlier this year when he won a California special primary. Former representative Ellen Tauscher (D-Calif) vacated the congressional seat to take a position in the State Department.

Commenting on the result, CUNA Political Director Trey Hawkins said that Garamendi "has been a strong friend to credit unions on the state level, and we look forward to continuing to work with him in Congress."

The Virginia Credit Union League publicly backed incoming Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell (R), who soundly defeated Democratic challenger Creigh Deeds by 17 points on Tuesday.

CULAC and the league earlier this year also supported Judy Chu (D-Calif.), who won a special election for the House seat from the 32nd district.

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