Barney Frank, the liberal congressman from Massachusetts who became a trailblazer for gay rights, has died. He was 86.
Frank served 16 terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing the 4th Congressional District from 1981 to 2013. He was the first member of Congress to voluntarily come out as gay while in office, doing so in 1987. He later married his longtime partner, Jim Ready, in 2012.
Frank was known for his sharp wit and fierce advocacy for progressive causes, including financial reform, affordable housing, and LGBTQ rights. He played a key role in crafting the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act after the 2008 financial crisis.
His death was confirmed by family members. No cause was immediately given.
Frank retired from Congress in 2013 but remained active in public life, serving on the board of the New York Stock Exchange and speaking out on political issues.
Tributes poured in from both sides of the aisle, with many praising his courage and legislative achievements. Former President Barack Obama called him a 'champion for the little guy' and a 'fearless advocate for equality.'
Frank is survived by his husband, Jim Ready, and a wide circle of friends and colleagues.
