KENT—Justin Potter, the Democratic nominee for the State Senate in District 30, has been approved for a public grant under the Citizens’ Election Program (CEP) by the State Elections Enforcement Commission.
Under the CEP, a state senate candidate can qualify for a grant of up to $124,100 to cover general election campaign expenses. Potter qualified for the maximum grant available because he was able to demonstrate significant public support for his campaign by raising more than $17,300 and receiving donations from at least 300 individuals living in the district.
The maximum contribution from any one donor under the program is $320. In addition to these requirements, candidates need to obtain ballot access, which Potter did when he won the Democratic nomination for the 30th District State Senate seat on May 14.
“Connecticut is a leader in many areas, and campaign finance reform is one of them,” Potter said. “I’m proud to participate in this public campaign finance system, which helps limit the influence of special interests, and allows candidates such as myself to focus on talking with voters rather than fundraising.”
Potter launched his campaign in late February. He finished fundraising in April. He is challenging the incumbent, first-term Republican State Senator Stephen Harding of Brookfield.
Potter said, “The fact that we received this grant so early is a testament to the strength of this campaign on multiple fronts, and the hard work of many, in particular our treasurer, Emily Smith.”
