Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal (D), one of the Nutmeg State’s most popular politicians, will announce this afternoon that he will run to replace Sen. Christopher J. Dodd(D-Conn.) (D-Conn.), who is expected to hold a noon news conference where he will announce he is not seeking re-election.

Blumenthal is likely the most popular politician in Connecticut, and has easily won re-election to his statewide post since he was first election in 1990. A November poll from Quinnipiac Univeristy showed Blumenthal with an astounding 78 percent approval rating — and his entry into the race certainly boosts Democratic chances of keeping the seat.

Meanwhile, former World Wrestling Entertainment CEO Linda McMahon (R) and former Rep. Rob Simmons (R) have indicated that they are still in the race no matter what happens with Dodd — or who runs in his stead.

“Linda McMahon’s appeal in this race from day one has been that she’s an outsider with real world experience at a time when its clear washington has lost its way and career politicians just don’t get it,” said McMahon spokesman Ed Patru. “None of that changes. Linda is committed to winning in November.”

“My entire political career is defined by running in tough races and I expect no less this time around, but I believe voters in Connecticut are seeking real changes in the way government operates and I am the only candidate who has the broad experience and track record to deliver for the state and nation,” said Simmons in a statement.

CQ Politics currently rates this race as a Tossup.