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Linda McMahon, the famous pro wrestling promoter who stayed largely out of the limelight as small business administrator, is quitting President Trump's Cabinet after more than two years on the job.

McMahon plans to join the pro-Trump superPAC America First Action, according to a source with direct knowledge of the situation.

"Linda McMahon has done an incredible job," Trump told reporters Friday at his Florida vacation home. "She has been a superstar."

A multimillionaire, McMahon contributed heavily to Trump's 2016 election effort. At America First Action, she could play a significant role in the president's 2020 bid for re-election.

Along with her husband Vince, McMahon ran the hugely successful World Wrestling Entertainment company, negotiating television rights and merchandising contracts. She twice ran unsuccessfully for the Senate from her home state of Connecticut.

At the SBA, McMahon has proven to be a workhorse, traveling the country to promote small business and the president's economic agenda while avoiding the scandals that have plagued several of her Cabinet colleagues.

"The opportunity to lead the agency in supporting America's small businesses has been immensely rewarding," McMahon said in a statement. She pointed to surveys showing high levels of optimism among the country's small business owners.

"They are investing in their companies and their employees — raising wages, providing bonuses and benefits, and creating more jobs," McMahon said.

Her resignation will take effect on April 12. Trump said he would announce a nominee to replace McMahon in the near future.

"I wish to thank the President and I will continue to be a strong advocate for him and his policies," McMahon said.

Trump has proposed cutting the SBA's budget next year by 5 percent.

White House reporter Ayesha Rascoe contributed to this report.

Politics and Government News

Scott Horsley

Author

McMahon is stepping down as head of the agency after more than two years in President Trump's Cabinet. McMahon had been known as a professional wrestling promoter.

Linda McMahon to quit Small Business Administration, to join pro-Trump super PAC

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