The August 13 Democratic primary campaigns of Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, former Mayor Bill Finch and City Councilman Scott Burns became $110,000 richer Wednesday afternoon when the State Elections Enforcement Commission approved grants under the Citizens Election Program of publicly funded races.
The fourth candidate in the race, ex councilman Tyler Mack’s grant application was extended until Friday, as well as the campaign of City Councilwoman Eneida Martinez who is challenging State House incumbent Andre Baker, the last day for the commission to approve primary grants. Baker’s grant was approved last week.
Connecticut’s 22nd Senatorial became open when incumbent Marilyn Moore announced she would not seek another two-year term after 10 years in the upper chamber. The district is among the most diverse in the state covering one third of Bridgeport, all of Trumbull and southern Monroe.
With early voting commencing August 5, the well-funded senate campaigns can breathe easier knowing they will have the resources necessary to make their case.
Senate campaigns must raise more than $17,000 in small donations, 300 of them from the respective residents in the district communities, for the commission to approve the grant.
The voluntary CEP was passed by the Connecticut legislature more than 15 years ago following the federal conviction of then Governor John Rowland to limit special interest influence in state races.
I find it very interesting that SEEC accepted Finch’s grant application despite there being an open investigation into potential impropriety. The investigation was approved to move forward last week with SEEC.