Retired U.S. Rep. John Tanner didn’t stay retired very long. The Union City Democrat officially retired from the U.S. House of Represen-tatives early last month and already has a new job in Washington, D.C.

Tanner began work today with the title of vice chairman of Prime Policy Group, a Washington, D.C., government and public affairs firm.

“Prime Policy Group is one of Washington’s premier government and public affairs firms,” Tanner said.

“They have a long history of valuing a bipartisan approach and their reputation for integrity and client service is unmatched. I’m thrilled to be joining this distinguished group of professionals that cover the landscape of policy issues on behalf of clients.”

Prime Policy Group reported nearly $9.2 million in total lobbying income for 2010 and boasts an extensive national and international client list. 

The firm represents a broad range of interests, including finance, non-profits, health care, education, the hospitality industry, foreign policy, the automotive industry, environment and insurance.

Tanner represented the 8th Congressional District for 11 terms and served as president of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly from 2008 to 2010. He was also a co-founder of the Blue Dog Democrats while he served in Congress. Tanner will not be eligible to actively lobby his former colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives for one year, according to House ethics rules.