Chair’s Message: Amplifying Our Voice in Advocacy
By Joe Peikert, CEO at Wolf River Community Bank, Hortonville, and the 2026–2027 WBA Chair
The dictionary defines amplify as “to make something more powerful.”
As Wisconsin bankers, that is exactly what we must do with our advocacy efforts.
Every day, decisions made in Madison and Washington, D.C. affect our ability to serve customers, strengthen communities, and support economic growth. To ensure those decisions are informed by the realities facing our industry, we must continue to amplify our voice.
Joe Peikert, CEO at Wolf River Community
Bank, Hortonville, and the 2026–2027
WBA Chair.
That work begins with people, which is why I am excited to welcome Chris Borgerding as WBA’s new vice president – government relations. With his valuable experience and strong commitment to advocacy, WBA’s relationships with policymakers will strengthen and ensure Wisconsin bankers have a strong and effective voice on the issues that matter most.
Borgerding’s arrival comes at a critical time. The upcoming November elections, including races for state legislative offices, federal seats, and particularly Wisconsin’s gubernatorial race, will help shape the policy environment for years to come. These elections will influence decisions on regulation, taxation, housing, economic development, and many other issues that are important to our industry. As always, bankers should stay informed, engaged, and focused on supporting leaders who understand the vital role banks play in our communities.
Chris Borgerding, WBA VP – government relations
At the same time, lawmakers continue to consider federal proposals and regulatory changes that will significantly impact financial institutions. It is essential that policymakers hear directly from bankers who understand the real-world effects of these decisions on local businesses, farmers, families, and consumers.
Effective advocacy requires more than good ideas. It requires resources and relationships.
The banking industry has achieved important advocacy successes through the generous support of banks across Wisconsin. While those corporate contributions remain valuable and appreciated, our goal is to increase participation from individual bankers.
When elected officials see engagement from banking professionals throughout the state, our message becomes even stronger.
That is why I have established a goal of raising $315,000 in individual banker contributions to WBA’s political funds (our PAC and conduit). Reaching this goal will provide the resources needed to continue advancing the interests of Wisconsin’s banking industry.
Equally important are the relationships we build with policymakers. Hearing directly from constituents often carries more weight than hearing from lobbyists alone. Programs like Take Your Legislator to Work Day provide excellent opportunities to show elected officials how banks serve their communities and contribute to local economic success.
Advocacy is strongest when we combine resources, relationships, and personal engagement. Together, these efforts amplify our voice and make our message more powerful.
As bankers, we have a compelling story to tell. By staying engaged, building relationships, and supporting WBA’s advocacy efforts, we can ensure that story is heard loud and clear. Together, let’s continue to amplify our voice and strengthen our impact.
