Ken Dixon's Blog-O-Rama

R. Nelson “Oz” Griebel, the Simsbury businessman who is a candidate for the Republican gubernatorial nomination, has raised more than $300,000 in eight weeks, according to the quarterly filing his campaign has made with the State Elections Enforcement Commission. His report is the first among Democratic and Republican hopefuls following the March 30 end of the quarter. Candidates have until April 12 to officially file.

Here’s his campaign statement:

 “In an environment where 46 percent of Connecticut voters prefer campaign contributions to self funding (http://www.quinnipiac.edu/x1296.xml?ReleaseID=1433)), Oz is the only candidate in the race for the GOP nomination for governor not taking public funds at taxpayer’s expense nor pouring millions of dollars of personal wealth into buying an election,” said Campaign Manager Ashley Maagero.  “In just 8 weeks, Oz’s unique background and vision for our state’s future have excited over 350 new donors and secured more than $300,000 in gross receipts with nearly $250,000 on hand to spend – a solid and formidable number for a first time candidate and total political outsider.”

“Oz’s financial performance ensures we will have the necessary resources to operate a robust and aggressive voter contact program, reaching delegates many times between now and the convention.  Oz will convey why his experience as a problem solver and coach, coupled with his vision for Connecticut, best position him to take on the ultimate democratic nominee in November.”