ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – In what perhaps was an indication of the importance Americans place on the upcoming presidential election, it was standing-room-only at a session and interactive discussion led by former NCUA Board member Geoff Bacino at the NASCUS conference on trends affecting the upcoming election. Bacino said that turnout was key, and which political party was more successful in getting its base to vote was critical, especially in the 18 swing states. "And which party does a better job of stemming the other side's negative advertising is also important in this election, more so than in the past elections," said Bacino who is currently EVP Legislative Affiairs for Centrix Financial. Attendees, as well, as Bacino, concurred that the Republicans have proven more adept at mud slinging during the campaigning, and that the Democrats, who had vowed not to go negative on President Bush at their convention were caught flat-footed when the Republican convention attacked Kerry. So the offensive and defensive moves continue, despite the polls which show most Americans would prefer an issues-oriented campaign. There was also speculation among conferees concerning which presidential candidate would be better for credit unions -both Bush and John Kerry have stated they support CUs' tax exempt status – but most attendees agreed that local issues predominated. "It would be a long time before either of them appointed a new NCUA Board member," said Bacino. "If Bush wins, Oxley would stay at the Financial Services Committee. If Kerry wins, you could see Barney Frank." – [email protected]