Former U.S. Sen. Martinez now a lobbyist

WASHINGTON, Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Former U.S. Sen. Mel Martinez, R-Fla., is the most recent lawmaker to resign and seek a new career in the world of lobbying, a lobbyist says.

Meredith McGehee, a lobbyist for the Campaign Legal Center, said Martinez is the fifth former member of Congress to turn to lobbying since 2007, a growing trend in the political world, Politico reported Thursday.

"This used to be considered unacceptable, but it really is a growing phenomenon," McGehee said. "The reality is that the money has gotten so big and so tempting these days, that I think a lot of these members are saying, 'I don't think I'll go back into political office, first of all, and, the money is just too big to turn down.'"

Ignacio Sanchez, a partner with the law firm DLA Piper that hired Martinez this week, said he actively sought out the 62-year-old politician, Politico reported.

"When he announced he was going to retire and let the governor appoint someone to finish out the term, I immediately talked to him and said, 'You really ought to consider looking at our firm. I think you would really do well, and we would love to have you,'" Sanchez said.