Linda McMahon found support and sustenance in Trumbull Thursday, dining in at and visiting her possible constituents.
Trumbull First Selectman Tim Herbst, a Republican, backed McMahon, who until recently worked for the family business, World Wrestling Entertainment. The visit followed a meeting between her opponent, Chris Shays, and the Trumbull Chamber of Commerce.
"It's going to take a job creator to go down to Washington and take the politics out," Herbst said, and McMahon would "put country first and people first."
The candidate outlined her six-point job creation plan:
- "Passing a middle-class tax cut for individuals and families";
- "Leveling the playing field for America's job creators";
- "Eliminating over-regulation and red tape that are killing job growth and creation";
- "Stopping out-of-control spending, borrowing and debt";
- "Providing the unemployed training and skills they need to fill available jobs";
- "Moving responsibly and rapidly to produce more energy in America".
McMahon also said she wasn't happy to hear that the Supreme Court upheld Obamacare.
"I was disappointed. It's unfortunate," she said. America will feel the "largest tax increase in American history" to the tune of $1.7 trillion under Obamacare, she said, adding that she would vote to repeal and replace it.
Patrons interviewed at Marie's supported her.
"I love her," said Virginia Ell of Trumbull. "I like that she's a business person. Our government could use someone with a head for business."
Roger McTiernan of New York, and Christopher Moore Jr., of Trumbull, met McMahon for the first time.
"I would say she's dedicated. She seems to work for the common man," Moore said.
Moore also recognized her from her connection with WWE, which her husband runs. Earlier that day, Chris Shays condemned her connection with WWE, criticizing it for violence and pornography.
McMahon said it is a business, and she has more business experience than Shays.
"I've been in business for over 30 years," McMahon said. "I am the only candidate who's made payroll, created jobs. The issue of the day is jobs and the economy."
Chris Murphy is the Democratic challenger, and a primary between Shays and McMahon is scheduled for Aug. 14.
