Aram Ayalon Announces Qualification for Clean Election Program

Former Democratic City Council leader, Ald. Aram Ayalon (D-3), who is running for State Representative in the 26th District, has announced that he has qualified for the state’s Citizen Election Program, known commonly as the “Clean Election Program”.

“I value the financial support for state candidates,” said Ayalon, “because it minimizes influence by corporations and special interest groups and will allow me to better represent my constituents.”

“I am looking forward to continuing our spirited campaign to fight for the needs of working people, families and senior residents of New Britain,” Ayalon added.

Ayalon, who is a retired CCSU education professor and former Board of Education member is facing another former Council member, Ald. Dave DeFronzo (D-AL) in an August 13th primary, when Democratic registered voters in the 26th District will chose their party’s nominee for the seat.

DeFronzo also qualify for the Citizen Election Program, but the State Elections Enforcement Commission website appears to indicate that the Republican candidate for the seat, Board of Education member Barbara Marino, is not presently participating in the program.

Qualifying for Clean Election program means that state grants, rather than special interest money, will fund participating candidates; campaigns, within the spending limits, during both primary and general election campaigns.

Ayalon had focused his campaign on issues, including support for education and reducing housing costs by capping rent increases and property taxes.

The election from the 26th Assembly District seat is an open seat election this year after Rep. Peter Tercyak (D-26) announced his retirement, after serving the district for 21 years.

Editor’s note: Cover photo by local photographer, Dr. Frank Gerratana.