Esty Donates Remaining Campaign Funds to Gun Violence Prevention Program

Outgoing U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty has donated $50,000 of her remaining campaign funds to a gun violence prevention program. 

Newtown Action Alliance announced the Democrat's contribution Thursday, the same day Esty's 5th District successor, Democratic U.S. Rep.-elect Jahana Hayes, was being sworn into office in Washington, D.C. 

The alliance's chairwoman, Po Murray, said the contribution will be used to expand a program that helps students raise public awareness about gun-violence prevention. 

Newtown Action Alliance was formed in the wake of the 2012 Sandy Hook school shooting, which occurred shortly before Esty first took office. 

Esty didn't seek a fourth term after facing criticism for her handling of a harassment case in her office. 

As of Sept. 30, her campaign account had $942,320 remaining. Those are the most recent available figures.