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Back to To the Point

To the Point

Barney Frank Calls It Quits

In 1987, Democrat Barney Frank of Massachusetts became the first member of Congress to publicly come out as gay. Since then, he's become a powerhouse, chairing the House Financial Services Committee when his party was in control.

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By Warren Olney • May 12, 2014 • 1 min read

In 1987, Democrat Barney Frank of Massachusetts became the first member of Congress to publicly come out as gay. Since then, he's become a powerhouse, chairing the House Financial Services Committee when his party was in control. Today, after 30 years in Congress, Frank announced that he won't seek re-election next year, citing recent redistricting. Susan Milligan writes about politics and foreign affairs for US News and World Report.

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Warren Olney

    former KCRW broadcaster

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    Frances Anderton

    architecture critic and author

  • Sonya Geis with wavy brown hair wearing a black dress with red accents and decorative earrings against a white background.

    Sonya Geis

    Senior Managing Editor

  • KCRW placeholder

    Katie Cooper

    Producer, 'One year Later'

  • KCRW placeholder

    Susan Milligan

    US News and World Report

    NewsNationalPolitics
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