Election Watch 2008

Credit Union Political Spotlight

Joe Daning

Joe Daning is a State Representative for House District 92 in South Carolina. Daning began his political career more than 30 years ago when he ran for, and won a seat on the Goose Creek City Council. His foray into political life began when friends encouraged him to run for a city council seat. Daning served on the Goose Creek City Council for many years and filled in as the Mayor Pro Tem. From there, Daning ran for the office of State Representative and won that seat in a special election in March 2008.

Daning is also a long-time credit union member and has served on the Supervisory Committee of South Carolina Federal Credit Union for the past four years, currently as Chairman of the Supervisory Committee. Daning feels the local bankers are more involved at the local level since they are for-profit institutions and are more concerned about regulations. However, credit unions need to maintain a presence in local politics since they too are part of the community.

Political involvement is important because, according to Daning, any time someone taxes you, you need to know what their policies are all about, how the process works and how it is going to affect you. You can learn some of these things by watching the news, but examining a candidate's performance is important too. Daning also knows the importance of campaigns - not only has he run them for himself, but he has also been involved in some of his fellow city council members' campaigns. He has done everything from stuffing envelopes to knocking on doors. You cannot be elected if no one knows who you are and what you stand for. Daning's family has always been involved in campaigning and they have really gotten into the spirit of things.

Over the course of his political career, Daning has had the opportunity to meet a lot of people and develop good friendships. He feels this is one of the many benefits of public service. Daning also has some advice for those looking to enter the political arena:

• Do your homework before you begin
• Ensure you and your family understand the vast time commitment
• Be sure you have the inclination for public life
• Stay involved

In addition to his position as a SC State Representative, Daning is also the Director of Workforce and Military Programs for Trident Technical College. He is also a member of the SC Technical Education Association and the Council on Military Educators of SC.

Where will the "Political Spotlight" shine next? Please email us if you know an individual or group within the credit union movement who is engaged in the political process.

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