WASHINGTON, DC -- President Donald Trump's nominee to run the Small Business Administration was introduced during her confirmation hearing Tuesday by the two U.S. senators that defeated her in often contentious political races in 2010 and 2012, Connecticut Democratic Sens. Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy.
Former wrestling entertainment executive Linda McMahon emphasized her experience in building a business from scratch as she seeks to become the next administrator of the SBA.
McMahon said in a confirmation hearing Tuesday that she and her husband started out sharing a desk and went on to build a company with more than 800 employees.
She also noted that she and her husband once declared bankruptcy and lost their home, saying "I know what it's like to take a hit."
McMahon resigned from WWE in 2009 before running unsuccessfully on two occasions for the U.S. Senate.
"In my view, Mr. Chairman, I recommend her because I think she would be an excellent fit," said Blumenthal. "She knows, as I do that small business are the backbone of the economy."
McMahon ran against Blumenthal for the seat he now holds in 2010.
She tried again in 2012, up against Murphy, but failed to win that seat.
Murphy also stepped up to bat for her. "I'm here today to support Linda. Not because we have magically become of one mind on how we approaches every problem this country faces. I have confidence she is going to give good sound counsel to President Trump when it comes to policy affecting small businesses."
She spent about $100 million of her own money in those races and was a big contributor to political action committees seeking to help Donald Trump in November's election.