Ex-Senate banking boss turns Hollywood lobbyist

WASHINGTON (AFP) – It is said that every US senator sees a president when they look in the mirror, but at least one former lawmaker also sees flashes of Hollywood.

The Motion Picture Association of America announced Tuesday that former Senate banking supremo Christopher Dodd will become their leading man in Washington, grabbing one of the most coveted lobbying gigs in the US capital.

After decades navigating the esoteric world of credit, derivatives and swaps, from mid-March the silver-haired Dodd will step into one replete with celluloid, directors and starlets.

“I am truly excited about representing the interests of one of the most creative and productive industries in America, not only in Washington but around the world,” Dodd said in a statement.

A one-time presidential candidate, Dodd holds a wealth of Washington experience, entering the Senate in the same year Oscar-winning actress Natalie Portman was born.

The former Connecticut senator stepped down from his seat in January after five terms in office, capping his political career by co-authoring sweeping Wall Street reforms.

“Chris has served our country as a highly respected and accomplished senator for over 30 years,” said Fox Filmed Entertainment chairman Jim Gianopulos.

“We are truly fortunate that he will bring his stature and talent to support the creative efforts of our filmmakers and the many people who work in our industry, here and around the world.”

Dodd is no stranger to the silver screen.

According to the Internet Movie Database, he played himself in the 1993 political comedy “Dave” staring Kevin Kline and Sigourney Weaver.

The Motion Picture Association represents the major Hollywood studios and has been highly vocal in pushing Washington to protect intellectual property against piracy.

Dodd follows in the footsteps of legendary lobbyist Jack Valenti, who for decades was the face of Tinseltown in Washington after having been an aide to president Lyndon B. Johnson.