FSI Names Representatives Andy Barr, French Hill, Gregory Meeks & Zach Nunn as Congressional Champions for Main Street

Lawmakers recognized for their leadership in protecting Main Street investors and defending access to affordable, professional financial advice

Today, the Financial Services Institute (FSI), the leading advocacy organization for independent financial advisors and independent financial services firms, named Representatives Andy Barr (KY-06), French Hill (AR-02), Gregory Meeks (NY-05) and Zach Nunn (IA-03) as recipients of its Congressional Champions for Main Street. 

FSI’s Congressional Champion for Main Street Award recognizes lawmakers who are dedicated to promoting financial security and literacy among investors and preserving access to the financial advice, products and services that help Main Street Americans achieve their financial goals.

“We are pleased to recognize the dedication and leadership of these members of Congress,” said FSI’s President & CEO Dale Brown. “These Congressional Champions have worked to promote policies that allow independent financial advisors to help their clients achieve their financial goals.  We applaud these lawmakers on their efforts to enhance investor protection while defending Main Street Americans’ ability to save for a dignified retirement and work with the trusted financial advisor of their choice.”

Rep. Andy Barr (KY-06)

As a member of the House Committee on Financial Services, Rep. Barr has been a strong advocate for independent financial professionals and their clients. In 2023, he voted to pass the Financial Exploitation Prevention Act to protect investors from fraud and abuse. He has also been an advocate for protecting independent financial advisors’ choice to operate as independent contractors.

“I’m honored to be recognized by the Financial Services Institute with the Congressional Champion for Main Street Award,” said Representative Barr. Independent financial professionals play a critical role in helping families, small businesses, and retirees in Kentucky and across the country achieve financial security. I’ll continue fighting for smart, pro-growth policies that support Main Street investors and preserve access to trusted financial advice.”

Rep. French Hill (AR-02)

We recognize the decades of experience in investment management, community banking, and as an economic advisor that Rep. Hill brings to his new role as Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee. He demonstrates a commonsense approach to regulatory clarity while advancing innovation in the financial services industry. He co-sponsored a Congressional Review Act resolution opposing the DOL’s 2024 independent contractor rule, reinforcing his commitment to protecting independent advisors. Additionally, he sponsored the Unleashing AI Innovation in Financial Services Act, illustrating his forward-thinking approach to the intersection of technology and finance.

“I thank the Financial Services Institute for recognizing me as a Congressional Champion for Main Street investors,” said Representative Hill. “Throughout my 40-year career in banking and financial services, I have fought to protect Main Street investors and promote financial literacy, especially for our youth. I am pleased to receive this award and will continue to support policies that gives every American an opportunity for financial success.”

Rep. Gregory Meeks (NY-05)

Rep. Meeks has been a steadfast supporter of the financial services industry, consistently working to advance policies that strengthen opportunities for independent financial professionals. As a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, and the Equality Caucus. Rep. Meeks is also a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in financial services.

“I am honored to be recognized as a Congressional Champion for those committed to promoting financial security and literacy among everyday investors,” said Representative Meeks. “Financial policymaking should prioritize access and inclusion, ensuring that Main Street Americans have the tools and resources to achieve their financial goals. It is our responsibility to protect and enhance access to the financial advice, products, and services that empower individuals and families to build wealth. By supporting the independent financial professionals and firms that serve these communities, we foster economic opportunity, equity, and mobility. I remain dedicated to championing policies that preserve and expand financial literacy and security for all Americans, regardless of background.”

Rep. Zach Nunn (IA-03)

As a member of the House Committee on Financial Services, Rep. Nunn has championed policies that protect retirees and support independent financial professionals. He voted to pass the Financial Exploitation Prevention Act and supported The Protecting Retirees’ Savings Act as part of a broader effort to safeguard investors. Rep. Nunn has also been an advocate for preserving the independent business model that enables financial advisors to serve their clients effectively.

“I am honored to receive the Congressional Champion for Main Street Award from the Financial Services Institute,” said Representative Nunn. “Main Street businesses are at the core of Iowa’s economy–driving job creation, fostering community growth, and keeping our small towns thriving. It is one of my top priorities in Congress to cut red tape and pass commonsense legislation that allows small businesses across Iowa and the country to succeed. This recognition is a privilege, and I will continue to advocate for policies that promote economic growth and prosperity.”