Theresa Madonna, the Republican candidate for the 18th District state senate seat, has announced that she has received a $91,290 Citizens' Election Program Grant from the state.

The Griswold resident said she is the first Republican to run for the seat who has qualified for the grant.

To obtain the money, Madonna said she had to raise $15,000 from 300 people in the eight-town district, which is comprised of Griswold, Groton, North Stonington, Plainfield, Preston, Sterling , Stonington and Voluntown. Donors could contribute between $5 and $100 each.

Madonna said she ended up raising nearly $15,500 dollars from more than over 400 donors.

She said the fundraising signals overwhelming support for her campaign.

"I could not be more appreciative of the citizens of these eight towns and beyond who gave to my campaign. Without their support, I would never be able to mount a successful challenge to the one-party rule in Hartford that has led to record tax increases, enormous debt, and out-of-control spending.

"This grant has leveled the playing field in this election and will allow me to deliver my message and ideas to the entire district. I pledge to utilize every dollar effectively and efficiently to win this November 6th," she said in a statement.

Madonna is running against incumbent Democrat Andrew Maynard of Stonington. Maynard has applied for the Citizens' Election Program.