Simmons To Scale Back On Campaigning, But Keeps Name On Ballot

Republican senate candidate Rob Simmons says he will scale back his campaign after his recent convention loss, but he will leave his name on the ballot for the upcoming primary. Simmons made the unusual announcement at a New London press conference Tuesday.  WNPR’s Harriet Jones reports.

Rob Simmons was visibly emotional as he came to the podium to announce he is effectively ending his run for Senate.

“We’ve decided reluctantly and prayerfully, to scale back the campaign. We will release staff to pursue other opportunities, and we will curtail campaign activities.”

Simmons lost out on the Republican endorsement in Hartford last week, to millionaire wrestling entrepreneur Linda MacMahon. He says his announcement is a recognition of reality.

“We understand the mathematical reality of competing against an opponent with unlimited financial resources, who has already invested over 16, 16 and one half million dollars in this campaign, by far more than any other senate candidate in the country.”

But his name will remain on the primary ballot, because he says with 46% of the convention vote, he believes people have a right to cast their vote for him. Simmons was critical of the conduct of the convention, where a second ballot was ruled out, despite the close contest. And he repeatedly turned down the invitation to endorse MacMahon.  

“I will be working with Republican candidates for state and federal office throughout the summer and fall to try to assist them to be successful in their races.” (shouted question – “will Linda be one of them?”)

Aides wrapped up the brief press conference as reporters continued to ask about MacMahon, and though he had answered some questions from the podium, Simmons uncharacteristically left without any further comment.

For WNPR, I'm Harriet Jones.