Ray Collins First in 117th State Rep District to Reach Citizens’ Election Program Fundraising Threshold
- 7 minutes ago
- 2 min read
WEST HAVEN, CT – March 25, 2026 – Ray Collins III, Republican candidate for State Representative in Connecticut’s 117th District, today announced that his campaign has officially met the strict fundraising threshold for the Connecticut Citizens’ Election Program (CEP) grant.
To qualify for the grant, a candidate must collect at least 150 qualifying contributions of $5 to $340 from residents of Milford, Orange, and West Haven, for a total of $6,700. Collins is the first, and currently only, candidate in the 117th District to reach this milestone, demonstrating broad, local support.
“This is a clear sign that voters across Milford, Orange, and West Haven are energized and ready for change,” said Ray Collins. “Our campaign is being fueled by local support, and this milestone shows we’re building real momentum as people grow frustrated with skyrocketing costs and failed leadership in Hartford."
With the last 117th District race decided by fewer than 250 votes, voters have a real opportunity for change. In just his first term, Rep. MJ Shannon has voted for policies that are pushing families out of Connecticut, driving up energy prices, and taking away local control of zoning — giving private equity companies free rein to build apartments across our district. Most recently, Shannon supported legislation that could raise heating oil and gasoline prices by another 33 cents per gallon.
“Rep. Shannon’s voting record is in complete contrast to the promises he made during his last campaign. Residents of the 117th District are tired of failed promises while their taxes and cost of living continue to rise,” Collins added. “I’m running to deliver real results: property tax relief, eliminating the public benefits charge on your electric bill, and protecting local control over zoning and education.”
The campaign’s application is now under review by the State Elections Enforcement Commission. To learn more about Ray Collins, visit collinsfor117th.com.