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Linda McMahon – Businesswoman, Political Leader, and Former SBA Administrator

US Secretary of Education Linda McMahon

Introduction

Linda McMahon is a prominent American businesswoman, political figure, and philanthropist. Best known for her leadership in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), she played a key role in transforming the company into a global media powerhouse. Beyond the business world, she served as the Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) from 2017 to 2019 under President Donald Trump, focusing on policies that supported small businesses and entrepreneurs. A two-time Republican Senate candidate, McMahon has remained an influential figure in both politics and business.

Early Life & Education

Linda Marie Edwards McMahon was born on October 4, 1948, in New Bern, North Carolina. Raised in a military family, she grew up with strong values of discipline and perseverance. She attended East Carolina University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in French in 1969. During her college years, she met Vince McMahon, whom she married in 1966.

Career in WWE: Building a Global Brand

In the early years of their marriage, Linda and Vince McMahon entered the world of professional wrestling. Together, they took over Capitol Wrestling Corporation, which later became World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and eventually World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).

As CEO of WWE from 1997 to 2009, Linda McMahon played a crucial role in the company’s growth, focusing on business expansion, public relations, and digital transformation. Under her leadership:

  • WWE transitioned into a global sports entertainment brand, reaching millions of fans worldwide.
  • She spearheaded initiatives such as WWE’s corporate social responsibility programs, including partnerships with Make-A-Wish Foundation and Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
  • She helped establish WWE’s PG-era programming, making content more family-friendly.

Her business acumen turned WWE into a publicly traded company in 1999, generating billions in revenue and securing its place as a dominant force in entertainment.

Political Career: U.S. Senate Campaigns & SBA Administrator

2010 & 2012 U.S. Senate Campaigns

After leaving WWE in 2009, Linda McMahon shifted her focus to politics. As a member of the Republican Party, she ran for the U.S. Senate from Connecticut in 2010 and 2012. Despite investing millions of her own money into the campaigns, she lost both races—first to Richard Blumenthal and then to Chris Murphy.

Administrator of the Small Business Administration (2017-2019)

In 2017, President Donald Trump appointed Linda McMahon as the Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA). In this role, she was responsible for supporting small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs across the country. Key highlights of her tenure include:

  • Expanding access to low-interest loans for small businesses.
  • Promoting economic development programs to empower women and minority-owned businesses.
  • Providing disaster relief funds to businesses affected by hurricanes and other natural disasters.

She served in the position until April 2019, when she stepped down to lead America First Action, a pro-Trump political action committee (PAC) supporting Republican candidates.

Philanthropy & Personal Life

Linda McMahon has been a major supporter of education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship initiatives. She has donated millions to causes like:

  • Sacred Heart University and East Carolina University, funding scholarships and business programs.
  • Hospitals and medical research, including The Concussion Legacy Foundation, which studies brain injuries in athletes.
  • Youth programs, such as Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

She and Vince McMahon have two children, Shane McMahon and Stephanie McMahon, both of whom have played significant roles in WWE’s operations.

Legacy & Influence

Linda McMahon’s career spans business, politics, and philanthropy, making her one of the most influential women in the corporate world. Her success with WWE revolutionized the sports entertainment industry, while her political and public service roles showcased her commitment to small businesses and economic growth. Whether in the boardroom or in government, Linda McMahon’s impact continues to be felt across multiple industries.

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