Democrat Andrew Maynard of Stonington, the incumbent state senator from the 18th district, said this week that like his Republican opponent Theresa Madonna of Griswold , he expects to receive a $91,290 Citizens' Election Program Grant from the state.

Maynard said this week that he has filed his application and expects to receive approval next week. Madonna announced this week that she has received her grant.

To obtain the money, Madonna and Maynard each 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.

Maynard has received grants from the program in his past two campaigns.

"It levels the playing field and gives each candidate the same amount of money without having to take lobbyist and special interest money," he said.

Maynard said the grant program is a good one because in the past the incumbent usually had the advantage when it came to fundraising.

"But it takes a credible candidate to get the money," he said, referring to the 300 donations.

Maynard pointed out that the funding for the grants comes from the state large abandoned property account and not from taxpayer money.