Conn. official asks court to keep campaign program

Associated Press

January 5, 2010

HARTFORD, Conn.

Secretary of the State Susan Bysiewicz (BYE'-suh-witts) is officially urging a federal appeals court to reverse a recent decision that struck down Connecticut's public campaign financing program.

Bysiewicz, a Democrat, is a potential candidate for governor. She filed a brief on Tuesday with the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

The public financing law provides public funding to legislative and gubernatorial candidates who observe certain restrictions.

A federal judge said the law is unconstitutional on several grounds, including the fact that it discriminates against minor party candidates.

The program is currently in operation, pending the appeal. Bysiewicz says it would be unfair to participating candidates if the court suddenly invalidates the program.

AP-ES-01-05-10 1144EST

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