Getting Campaign Cash

The News-Times ran an article today regarding the new campaign finance laws. You can read it here.

This year, state candidates can become a part of the new Citizen Elections Program. A candidate for the house needs to raise $5,000 from at least 150 people within the town or towns they represent. They will then get $25,000, which will give them $30,000 for the entire campaign. A senate candidate needs to raise $15,000 from at least 300 people. They will then get $85,000 to give them $100,000 for the campaign.

In Danbury, the only candidate who has officially received their money is Republican Mike McLachlan who is running for the State Senate. It is likely that the incumbent house members will get their money soon, as it is always easier for an incumbent to raise money. However, this will give challengers more of a level playing field. They won't have to worry about facing a well financed incumbent.

We will have to see if this ends up having a big role in the election.