Former Dem Senator Evan Bayh goes to work for the Chamber of Commerce

WASHINGTON – Former Democratic Sen. Evan Bayh of Indiana has signed with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as an adviser, becoming the latest of many members of Congress to embrace lobbying after retiring.

"I'm pleased to report that the Chamber has recently enlisted former White House Chief of Staff Andy Card and former Senator Evan Bayh who will carry a bipartisan message on regulatory reform out around the country through a 'road show' of speeches, events, and media appearances at various local venues," wrote Chamber president Tom Donohue in a memo to the Board of Directors, Supporters and Friends.

The former senator, who relinquished his seat this January, will be part of a team warning of the "impacts of over-regulation on small businesses and entrepreneurs." (The Chamber is by far the top spender on lobbying and represents many of the largest corporations in the country.)

The Indiana Democrat -- who is also currently a paid contributor to the Fox News Channel -- was at times a thorn in the side of his party, sometimes offering support for progressive initiatives but often siding with Republicans while invoking the perils of partisanship.

"I want to be engaged in an honorable line of work," Bayh said upon retiring from the Senate.

[h/t Peter Stone of iWatch News & Andy Kroll of Mother Jones]