Senator Tony Strickland represents California’s 36th Senate District, which includes communities across Orange and Los Angeles counties. Elected to the State Senate in 2024, Strickland brings extensive experience in public service, having previously served in both the California State Assembly and State Senate, as well as Mayor of Huntington Beach.
He serves on the Senate Banking and Financial Institutions Committee, where he helps review legislation affecting credit unions and other financial institutions, consumer financial services, lending, and access to financial services.
His work in the legislature reflects a focus on economic opportunity, fiscal responsibility, public safety, and supporting California’s businesses and communities.
What role have credit unions played in your community, and what impact have you seen firsthand?
Credit unions play an important role in supporting individuals, families, and small businesses throughout Orange County and Senate District 36. Orange County is home to more than a dozen credit unions, ranging from large institutions such as SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union and Orange County’s Credit Union to smaller community-based credit unions.
These credit unions provide affordable financial services, home and auto loans, small business financing, and financial education programs tailored to local needs for residents, educators, small businesses, and community organizations.
I believe what stands out most for me with credit unions is their community-centered approach and commitment to serving members rather than shareholders. Credit unions reinvest in the communities they serve, partner with local schools and nonprofits, and help residents build long-term financial stability. I have seen firsthand how credit unions provide accessible banking options and financial resources that help working families achieve their goals while supporting the broader economic health of our communities.
In my district alone, I have the following credit unions: SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, Orange County’s Credit Union, American First Credit Union, Financial Partners Credit Union, Nuvision Federal Credit Union, Southland Credit Union, Credit Union of Southern California, Huntington Beach Credit Union, Santa Ana Federal Credit Union, Eagle Community Credit Union, and Sea Air Federal Credit Union.
What inspired you to pursue public service, and what keeps you motivated today?
My father, Sergeant First Class Donald K. Strickland, is my hero. He served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars and completed two tours of duty during the Vietnam War. He earned the Bronze Star for bravery in action during the Tet Offensive. As a non-commissioned officer, he rose to the rank of Sergeant First Class and received numerous medals and commendations throughout his military career.
Growing up, he always taught me to “do something bigger than yourself.” That lesson inspired my commitment to public service, which I consider my calling.
What keeps me motivated today is the desire to make California a better place for families and future generations. California is an extraordinary state, yet many residents are leaving because of the high cost of living and other challenges. I am committed to working on solutions that help Californians thrive and ensure our state remains a place of opportunity for generations to come.
What community partnership or local initiative involving a credit union has impressed you recently?
One initiative that has impressed me is the continued investment Orange County credit unions have made in financial literacy and education. Credit unions throughout the region have partnered with schools and community organizations to provide students and families with practical financial education, helping them develop skills related to budgeting, saving, credit management, and long-term financial planning.
I have also been encouraged by the support credit unions provide to local nonprofits and workforce development organizations. Through scholarships, teacher grants, community giving programs, and partnerships with organizations that serve families and young adults, credit unions are helping expand opportunity and strengthen communities throughout Orange County.
These efforts demonstrate the unique role credit unions play as community-focused financial institutions that invest directly in the people they serve. Some examples to highlight:
What opportunities do you see for credit unions to partner with government and community organizations to address challenges facing Californians?
Credit unions can be strong partners in administering small business assistance programs, supporting emergency relief efforts after wildfires or other disasters, and expanding access to affordable credit in underserved communities. Because credit unions tend to be local, I think there is a tremendous opportunity for them to work alongside state and local governments to provide community-centric programs.
What advice would you give to credit unions to tell their story to legislators?
Credit unions should continue highlighting their direct impact on local communities through clear, data-driven examples and personal stories. As an elected official, I respond strongly to hearing about real-world situations, whether it is about helping a small business operator fulfill their dream or expand their business, or helping families fulfill a dream in purchasing a home, or in financial hardship.
