Chris Shays (R-CT) to run for U.S. Senate

[Keystone Phil]

If Simmons couldn't survive a primary against a joke like McMahon, then I can't see how an even more moderate/liberal Republican can do it.

Money.

Shays district is one of the wealthiest in the country, and he's got a lot of very strong corporate contacts from his time as a congressman. Not saying he'd win a primary, but he's a much stronger candidate than Simmons on most every level—especially seniority and ability to fundraise.

It probably also hurt that Simmons effectively ended his campaign then resurrected it. What a joke move.

[Keystone Phil]

If Simmons couldn't survive a primary against a joke like McMahon, then I can't see how an even more moderate/liberal Republican can do it.

Money.

Shays district is one of the wealthiest in the country, and he's got a lot of very strong corporate contacts from his time as a congressman. Not saying he'd win a primary, but he's a much stronger candidate than Simmons on most every level—especially seniority and ability to fundraise.

It probably also hurt that Simmons effectively ended his campaign then resurrected it. What a joke move.

He suspended his campaign when he lost the Republican convention, which was expected to be a cakewalk for him.

That doesn't mean he would have gotten demolished in the primary especially since I believe McMahon was beginning to show her...eh...colorful side more often.

[Keystone Phil]

I never said Simmons would have won. 

[Keystone Phil]

I think his time has come and gone.  He was very weak his last few elections until he was ousted in 2006.

Except he wasn't ousted in 2006.