Democratic attorney general candidate George Jepsen issued a press release today touting a big edge in the number of total donors contributing to his campaign.

Republican candidate Martha Dean’s report to the State Elections Enforcement Commission listed 163 contributors to her campaign through September, with the average contribution of nearly $400.

In comparison, more than 1,200 Connecticut residents gave contributions of $100 or less to Jepsen’s campaign between January and July when he qualified for public financing. Also, Jepsen did not accept money came from political action committees, industry or public-interest groups.

“My grassroots support is much deeper and more widespread than my opponent’s. The numbers tell the story. My message appeals to a broader range of Connecticut voters,” Jepsen said. In contrast, Dean has failed to garner much financial support, even from members of her own party.

Jepsen said participating in the Clean Elections Program has allowed him to focus on meeting Connecticut voters and talking about issues that matter, not raising money. It has also kept special interest money out of his race.

George Jepsen has announced that he is forming an exploratory committee. Here is the letter he sent to media outlets on Jan. 12:

"This week I will open my exploratory committee for the office of Connecticut Attorney General.

If I become Attorney General, I pledge to give my full time and commitment to the position. As part of this pledge, I will not run for any higher office while Attorney General in my first term. Specifically, I will not seek the 2012 US Senate seat or the 2014 Governor’s seat. The next Attorney General needs the professionalism upheld by Richard Blumenthal and the office should avoid immediate conflicts involving electoral politics.

When Richard Blumenthal became Attorney General, he committed himself to the work at hand in his first term and I will give that same level of dedication.

We need an Attorney General who, like Richard Blumenthal, will be a constant beacon for legal leadership and ethics over many years, and not a person looking at this position as a short-term stepping stone. I would ask that other officials running for Attorney General match my pledge."