Assemblymember Diane Dixon represents California’s 72nd Assembly District, which includes coastal communities throughout Orange County.

Elected to the California State Assembly in 2022, Dixon brings decades of experience in public service, business, and local government, including her tenure as mayor of Newport Beach. She is committed to promoting economic growth, fiscal responsibility, public safety, and government accountability.

As a member of the Assembly Banking and Finance Committee, Dixon helps review legislation affecting financial institutions, consumer protection, lending, financial literacy, and access to financial services.

Meet the Legislator: 5 Questions with Assemblymember Dixon

• What role have credit unions played in your community, and what impact have you seen firsthand?

  Credit unions play a vital role in all communities, offering banking services for community members who may not want or be eligible for traditional banking services. I’ve seen how impactful it can be in Orange County, especially for our residents, to get low-interest loans.

  In fact, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union is one of the largest credit unions in Orange County and was named number-one on Forbes’ list of “Best Credit Unions in California.” They have served numerous constituents faithfully for years and have had a massive positive effect on the community.

• What inspired you to pursue public service, and what keeps you motivated today?

  My inspiration for public service was borne out of the myriad of issues Californians have faced in recent years. It’s no secret that high cost of living, questionable policy goals, and a lack of transparency has plagued California’s elected leadership for many years. Eventually, I decided that enough was enough. If I wanted to see change, then I would have to commit to representing like-minded individuals myself.

  My public service began on the Newport Beach City Council, where I was able to make a real difference for our constituents. I later made the transition to the State Assembly to be a voice of reason and represent my constituency in Orange County. My experience in private business has been invaluable in advocating for fiscal responsibility and policy changes that encourage business growth, rather than driving them out of the state.

  I remain motivated by the positive impact I can have here in Sacramento. Knowing that the decisions we make affect the nearly 40 million residents of California is a humbling reminder of the importance of what we do as representatives.

• What community partnership or local initiative involving a credit union has impressed you recently?

  International Credit Union Day is celebrated on the third Thursday of October every year. SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union hosts a great celebration for this special day, recognizing all the great work that credit unions do for the communities throughout Orange County.

  It is a great way for attendees to learn about what makes every credit union so special and see firsthand the incredible programs they have to serve our local communities. Events like this are vital in showcasing the amazing work our local credit unions do every day.

• What opportunities do you see for credit unions to partner with government and community organizations to address challenges facing Californians?

  There are always opportunities for credit unions to partner with both the government and community organizations to help address challenges facing Californians. The most common way is through representation at the California capitol. Unfortunately, Sacramento doesn’t seem to fully understand the positive impact that credit unions can have on communities, and they are often heavily impacted, both intentionally and unintentionally, by legislation. The engagement of the trade organizations representing these valuable credit unions ensures that members are not adversely affected by these policy changes.

  Another way that credit unions can engage with the community is by raising awareness and offering easily accessible opportunities to sign up for services.

• What advice would you give to credit unions to tell their story to legislators?

  California’s credit unions are extremely active in the capitol and are highly effective at communicating how they benefit members. My advice would be to continue to share the amazing benefits and services that credit unions offer to their membership.

  Credit unions are an integral part of our financial ecosystem and represent an invaluable service to many customers. The not-for-profit, member-driven model of credit unions ensures the collective financial success of all members, especially in areas known as “bank deserts” — and sharing that amazing benefit with legislators is the greatest way to tell your story.