Trent Lott, Opportunist?

Trent Lott will announce later today his decision to resign from the Senate. His term isn't up until 2012. Why would he choose to make that decision now, rather than fill his term? Some speculate:

While the exactly reason Lott is stepping down before he finishes his term is unknown, the general speculation is that a quick departure immunizes Lott against tougher restrictions in a new lobbying law that takes effect at the end of the year. That law would require Senators to wait two-years before entering the lucrative world of lobbying Congress.

I guess someones commitment to their constituency takes a back seat to political opportunism. If true, of course.

Flash