Michael Wong, a Senate staffer with over a decade of legislative experience, has been appointed as Senior Vice President of Government Affairs at the Bank Policy Institute (BPI). He is set to begin his new role on April 8. Wong's most recent position was as Senior Advisor for Policy and Strategy to Senator Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona.
BPI Executive Vice President and Head of Public Affairs Kate Childress expressed enthusiasm about Wong's appointment, stating, “We are excited for Michael to join the BPI team. He is a trusted staffer who will bring his Senate experience to bear on behalf of our members.”
Erik Rust, incoming Head of Government Affairs at BPI, highlighted Wong's qualifications by saying, “Michael’s extensive legislative policy experience will enable him to tackle complex policy issues important to our industry. We’re excited to bring him on board.”
Senator Kyrsten Sinema praised Wong’s contributions during his tenure with her team: “For the past 11 years, Michael has been an integral – and invaluable – member of my team. He is a trusted advisor, respected by both parties... I know he will bring the drive and commitment to finding solutions that made him successful on Capitol Hill to the Bank Policy Institute.”
Wong has advised Senator Sinema in various capacities while she served on key committees like the House Financial Services Committee and the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Notably, in 2019 he led efforts for the reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank of the United States and played a role in negotiating significant laws such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
The Bank Policy Institute represents major banks across the nation, advocating for public policy and research initiatives. It includes universal banks, regional banks, and prominent foreign banks operating in the U.S., employing nearly two million people nationwide.