Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries issued the following statement upon the death of former Representative Barney Frank:

For more than three decades in the House of Representatives, Congressman Barney Frank was a trailblazing advocate and legendary leader for the people he was privileged to represent in Massachusetts. The first Member of Congress to come out while in office, Barney broke barriers for the LGBTQ+ community and helped push us closer to making true America’s promise of liberty, justice and equality for all. 

During his time as Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, Rep. Frank led the passage of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, the key legislative response to the 2008 crisis that enacted into law sweeping reforms to the financial system. Beyond this historic, namesake legislation, Chairman Frank championed significant civil rights, environmental and affordable housing policy.

We are a better Caucus and country because of Barney Frank’s relentless leadership and candor. Though we are blessed with many memorable quips to remember him by, the House Democratic Caucus family will miss Barney deeply and mourn with his loved ones during this difficult time. 

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