Barney Frank, a prominent and influential former representative from Massachusetts, passed away on Tuesday at his home in Ogunquit, Maine. He was 86. His friend James Segel confirmed that Frank had been in hospice care due to congestive heart failure.

Renowned as a witty and sharp-minded politician, Frank was frequently recognized as one of the ‘brainiest,’ ‘funniest,’ and ‘most eloquent’ members of the House. Throughout his career, he was a trailblazer for the LGBTQ+ community, being the first openly gay member of the House of Representatives to come out voluntarily. His public announcement in 1987 marked a significant moment in political history, as he aimed to show that there should be no shame in being openly gay. Frank believed that combating prejudice required honest representation. In his words, ‘Prejudice is based on ignorance, and the best way to counterbalance it is with a living example, with reality.’

Frank served as a liberal Democrat representing a diverse suburban Boston district for 32 years, beginning his tenure in 1981. He was a Harvard-educated lawyer, known for his intellectual prowess and sharp tongue. His contributions include authoring major reforms in the nation’s financial regulations, marking a significant overhaul since the Great Depression.