Aaron Zimmer Qualifies for Clean Election Funding

Aaron Zimmer Qualifies for Clean Election Funding

Significantly outraising incumbent Stephen Harding reveals grassroots momentum; MAGA incumbent Harding’s campaign clearly in trouble.

BROOKFIELD, CT—Democrat Aaron Zimmer announced today that his State Senate campaign has qualified for Connecticut’s landmark Citizens’ Election Program before incumbent Stephen Harding, a major milestone that demonstrates strong grassroots support and growing momentum.

With this early indicator of campaign strength, it is clear that Zimmer’s message is resonating with voters: people are ready for new leadership that focuses on working people, families, and the everyday costs that are squeezing our households.

“People are tired of empty words from legislators in Hartford. They want real change and real action, not career politicians who just can’t deliver,” said Zimmer in his announcement.

“Qualifying for the Citizens’ Election Program before an incumbent shows that people are paying attention, that they are ready for change, and that they want a senator who will fight for working families. I’m running to protect our state from Donald Trump’s devastating extremist policies - policies my opponent supports. I will fight for lower costs, healthcare for all, and make sure the ultra-wealthy pay their fair share so that we can lower our local property taxes.”

Zimmer’s viral campaign videos are bringing more people into the campaign, especially younger voters looking for new energy in the legislature. His platform includes protecting workers, strengthening public education, and ensuring that state government works for families rather than the powerful few. 

“This is exactly the kind of momentum a challenger needs to build a winning campaign,” said Jill Drew, Chair of the Sharon Democratic Town Committee. “Aaron Zimmer qualified early because residents believe in his vision and are ready for leadership that reflects their values. They don’t want a Trump supporter representing them in Hartford. To qualify so early shows that people want a leader who will stand up for families, defend our rights, and fight for real economic fairness.”

The Citizens’ Election Program, Connecticut’s clean elections system, allows candidates to run people-powered campaigns funded by small-dollar contributions from residents rather than special interests. Zimmer’s successful qualification in the first phase of the campaign reflects broad local support and a desire for change. He surpassed both the financial threshold of $20,100 and the requirement for contributions from 300 district residents. 

“This milestone is only the beginning,” Zimmer added. “We are going to keep talking to voters, listening to families, and building a campaign that gives people a voice. The people of this district deserve leadership that is on their side, and that is exactly what this campaign is about. It’s time our elected leaders worked as hard as regular people do.”

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Aaron Zimmer is running for the 30th State Senate seat, representing towns of Bethlehem, Brookfield, Canaan, Cornwall, Goshen, Kent, Litchfield, Morris, New Fairfield, New Milford, North Canaan, Salisbury, Sharon, Sherman, Torrington, Warren, Washington and Winchester.