Connecticut Supreme Court Upholds Free Speech in Campaign Ads

Ruling overturns fines against Republicans for criticizing governor with publicly funded campaign materials

Court's 5-0 decision protects candidates' rights to criticize opponents in publicly funded campaigns.
Ruling could influence similar cases in other states with public campaign financing.
Case involved two Republican candidates fined for ads criticizing then-Gov. Dannel Malloy in 2014.
The decision clarifies the limits of free speech restrictions in state-funded election programs.
Connecticut's Elections Enforcement Commission is reviewing the ruling and considering next steps.