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ABA: The American Bankers Association

James Ballentine

Executive Vice President, Congressional Relations & Political Affairs

James Ballentine
James is the executive vice president of congressional relations and political affairs for ABA. James has been involved in banking and public policy for over 30 years. A 20-year veteran of ABA, he leads the association’s congressional affairs and lobbying team and is responsible for managing and directing ABA’s legislative and political operations. James has also served as ABA’s senior vice president for grassroots and as director of ABA’s Center for Community Development. Prior to ABA, James served as the associate deputy administrator at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and as the senior advisor to SBA’s Deputy Administrator. Before SBA, James worked nine years on Capitol Hill as chief of staff and legislative director to former House Banking member Maryland Congressman Albert Wynn (D-MD) and as legislative director to former New York Congressman Frank Horton (R-NY).

ABA Speakers Bureau

A free member benefit, the ABA Speakers Bureau provides a diverse slate of expertise on important topics, and may be available to speak to your state association, leadership team, board of directors and more.