Wrestling CEO Linda McMahon to Run for Senate

In an announcement sure to inspire a barrage of “stepping into the ring” cracks, Linda McMahon, wife of Vince McMahon and until now CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, is seeking the Republican nomination to take on Connecticut Sen. Chris Dodd, the Hartford Courant reports. McMahon promised to be “a different kind of candidate,” touting her success as a wrestling executive as a major qualification.

“I’ve spent the past 30 years growing what began as a 13-employee small business into a publicly traded, global entertainment company hat now provides over 500 jobs here in Connecticut,” she said in a statement yesterday. “I understand what it takes to balance a budget, create jobs and grow the economy.” McMahon, who will personally foot the bill for her campaign, will resign her position to make the run. Though typically a behind-the-scenes force for the WWE, she's made several dozen appearances in the ring. (More WWE stories.)