This article focuses on the state representative race in Connecticut's 81st district, where both candidates will compete using the state's new Clean Elections public financing program. Though they came to politics in quite different ways, both Rep. Bruce P. Zalaski (D) and challenger Daniel Banici (R) express support for the Clean Elections program.

Their principle reason for liking Clean Elections is that it opens up the political process to more people:

"I support public financing, even though it helps people who run against me," Zalaski said. "It makes better candidates. More average people run. It's a great thing."


"I support public campaigns. It gives everyone a chance," Banici said.

Participation in this, the first general election cycle for which public financing has been available since the Clean Elections law passed in 2005, is expected to be high.