The Obama campaign has apparently been hinting at a big endorsement in the works and, according to Marc Ambinder, this is it.

Former South Carolina Democratic Governor Jim Hodges has decided to endorse Senator Barack Obama for the presidency, he revealed today.

“Barack Obama has been bringing people together to create change all his life. He’s the right choice to turn the page on the divisive politics that have led to partisan gridlock and inaction… I also have a practical reason for supporting Barack. I think he can win in November and make states that haven’t been on the Democratic electoral map competitive again by attracting Independents and moderate Republicans.”

Funny thing is, Hodges, who will now be Obama’s national co-chair, is a registered lobbyist. As a matter of fact, he heads a lobbyist/consultant group.

The Center for Responsive Politics shows Hodges Consulting Group is registered to lobby for Hillenbrand Partners, a Chicago-based company that does business with the Federal Home Loan Bank in Atlanta.

Hodges’ lobbying partners include Billy Boan, a Republican and his former chief of staff. Boan’s clients include the South Carolina Trial Lawyers Association.

Obama says he refuses to take donations from lobbyists, and that they won’t be welcome in his administration. Apparently just as co-chairs of his campaign.