Clean Elections is a system of publicly financed elections that give well-qualified people a chance to run for office without relying on wealthy special interest and lobbyist campaign contributions. Already in operation in Arizona, Maine, and North Carolina, Clean Elections levels the playing field and makes our elections about voters and not political donors.

Just days ago landmark campaign finance reform appeared imminent in Connecticut. Because of in incredible round the clock grassroots efforts our activists in Connecticut, we are on the verge of having the strongest, toughest, and fairest campaign finance reform law in the nation. However, we have stumbled into a roadblock during the last few hours. Negotiations between House and Senate Democrats took a disastrous turn Monday when talks erupted into a shouting match. Legislative egos may be bruised, but the ultimate victim may be the integrity of state government if our leaders don't reach a settlement.

To add insult to injury, Connecticut's leading contract lobbyists made their move Monday and began to work against the very reforms that would reduce their influence.

So we need your support for a last minute push in this most critical hour for publicly financed elections with national reverberation. Passing Clean Elections will not only be good for Connecticut, but also send a message to the rest of the nation that elections belong to voters not political donors. So, if you have family member, friends, and colleagues who live in Connecticut please forward them this information, urging them to take either one of the two actions or if possibly both of them today.

Folks in Connecticut can give us an immense boost in two ways:

First, tonight they can attend a Grassroots Action for Clean Elections-a special rally and vigil for democracy-to ensure that Political leaders in Hartford don't let campaign finance reform slip through their fingers.

The Grassroots Action for Clean Elections will be at the State Capitol in Hartford (210 Capitol Avenue) starting at 5:30 p.m. until they vote. (Directions to the Capitol are below)

To help navigate the Capitol Building, a Clean Elections Center will be set up in the first floor lobby, where activists will be able to check in, get small signs and stickers, and instructions.

For more information visit:

http://www.cleanupconnecticut.org

Second, Connecticut lawmakers are going to vote on a far-reaching, comprehensive campaign finance reform law today. The most important thing Connecticut activists can do is show up at the Capitol tonight to let them know, but if they can't make it, they can call these lawmakers at the numbers below to urge them to pass Clean Elections:

• For Senate Democrats call 800-842-1420 or 860-240-8600
• For Senate Republicans call 800-842-1421 or 860-240-8800
• For House Democrats call 800-842-8267 or 860-240-8585
• For House Republicans call 800-842-1423 or 860-240-8700

(If folks are not sure who the elected officials in Connecticut are, they can visit the Connecticut legislature's site by going to: http://www.cga.ct.gov/maps/townlist.asp)

The "Clean Up Connecticut" campaign's grassroots action has made a huge sifference so far. Local media outlets are giving the campaign tremendous coverage and Governor Rell (R) and our legislative leaders have made it clear that the time for change is now. You can help put this campaign over the top, and put Clean Elections into law, making history today.

Thanks again for all you do for Common Cause.