In the arena of electoral reform Connecticut is continuing to take steps in the right direction.

Connecticut Common Cause has issued a new report examining the successes of the state's new Citizen's Election Program.  Their conclusion: the system is strong.

The study interviewed a cross section of candidates for the legislature, including those running for the House, the Senate, members of both major parties, as well as a third party candidate. These interviews painted a clear picture that Clean Elections has provided many individuals with an opportunity that previously had been out of reach. With the ability to raise huge amounts of money no longer serving as the threshold for viability, new candidates have been able to seek entrance into the political fray.

"Of the 11 interviewed by Connecticut Common Cause, six candidates said they would not have run if it were not for the Citizens' Election Program.  Others said that they preferred participating in the voluntary Citizens' Election Program rather than building a political war chest from private contributors."

The study goes on to report that candidates found themselves with more time to spend on grassroots organizing and citizen outreach. By moving the focus to small donors Clean Elections has effectively put democracy in the hands of its rightful owners--the people. 

"Every candidate interviewed said they enjoyed emphasis on grassroots organizing and citizen participation, and most candidates expressed appreciation that the program reduced the influence of special interest on their campaigns."

 

For a state that has had a long and arduous journey from the days of corruption and scandal surrounding the resignation of former Governor John Rowland, Connecticut appears to be on its way to a bright future.