The Sentinel in Edison, New Jersey has a very positive article today on the state's Clean Electiosn pilot program for which a number of candidates from the three eligible districts have qualified. Candidates seem excited about participating, including third party candidates who feel that though the system isn't perfect it's certainly better than what came before.These quotes from two of the participating candidates are particularly encouraging. First, Assemblyman Bill Baroni (R), who helped author the pilot program: "It has been one of the best things I've ever seen in politics," said Baroni, who was one of the sponsors of the legislation that put the pilot program in place.Baroni, of Hamilton, praised the program because it encourages politicians to get back to the grass roots and interact with their voters face to face. To this end, Baroni said he has been seeking donations primarily through house parties hosted by supporters in the district, getting away from the "fancy dinners and cocktail parties" that constituents typically associate with political fundraising. He also noted that once a candidate reaches 800 contributions, they can't raise any more, freeing up more time to talk to the public."I've been involved in politics for a long time and I've never been more excited. This is revolutionary in New Jersey," said Baroni. Also with positive things to say about the program was the first candidate to qualify, Baroni's Democratic opponent Seema Singh: A newcomer to politics, she noted that while she has never campaigned before, she was pleased with the way the FACE program encouraged her to connect with voters on a one-to-one level. Both she and Baroni agreed that it was important to educate voters about the FACE program, with both speaking about it at length when talking to their constituents."I think education is a very important part because people are of the mind-set of how a traditional campaign is run, with raising large monies and raising large donors," Singh said. "When you go to people and ask for $10, they look at you and go, 'Are you for real?' And when they learn about it, they really love it." This is great to hear!