We have lots of Republicans here in CT, New England is the birthplace and traditionally the home of the GOP. What we don't have (except a few rare transplants) are the religious authoritarian/moral majority type GOP. These days our GOP are frequently called RINOs because they find it anathema to compel the rest of society how to live their lives. OUr GOP is more of a traditional small government, promote individual freedom type-an endangered species these days. Many, many town governments here are GOP run.
BTW, CT hasn't had a Democratic governor since Jan, 1991 and we have GOP in all but name Senator Joe Lieberman.
My personal belief is Linda McMahon will flame out, especially when the electorate realises she made her fortune off of pushing steriods. I hope she does get nominated though, Simmons would be a much tougher opponent.