Sen. Martin joins the ‘Gig’ economy

Steve Martin is one of the most pleasant and amiable members of the Virginia General Assembly.  Now, he’s taking that positive personality in a completely different direction.

Having lost in a three-way primary earlier this year, Martin’s 22-year Senate career comes to a close this January.  But he’s already started the transition back to being completely in the private sector: as a driver for the internet taxi company, Uber.

From the Times-Dispatch:

[Martin] has hit the road to supplement his job as a self-employed insurance broker and benefits consultant. Martin said he is making good money working for Uber and enjoys driving and visiting with passengers, in what one customer said is an older model Nissan Altima.

‘With all the free time I have without running for office, I was looking for a way to supplement my income,’ he told the Richmond Times-Dispatch. ‘I enjoy people and I thought I’d try it, and I’m enjoying it.’

Always good for an entertaining story or anecdote, the affable and sometimes quirky Senator from Chesterfield is also known for his strong faith…and his singing.  I got to know Martin a little better at a recent statewide GOP convention, when we were seated together backstage while the Senator warmed up his voice for a performance.

While Uber is a bit of an unconventional move, I bet Steve Martin is going to have a great time with this.  If you’re ever in Chesterfield and need a ride, keep an eye out for the Senator behind the wheel.