Matsui Statement on the Passing of Former Congressman Barney Frank

May 20, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07) issued the following statement on the passing of former Congressman Barney Frank, who represented Massachusetts's 4th congressional district from 1981 to 2013 . "I’m heartbroken by the passing of my dear friend and former colleague Barney Frank," said Congresswoman Matsui. "Barney was one of a kind. He had a brilliant mind, an unmatched sense of humor, and never lost sight of the people whose lives could be made better through public service. His legacy is not only in the laws he helped write, but in the barriers he broke. At a time when too many LGBTQ+ Americans were forced to hide who they were, Barney lived openly and courageously. He challenged stigma simply by refusing to shrink himself, and he helped open doors for generations of LGBTQ+ leaders to serve without hiding who they are." "I will miss his friendship, his candor, and his wisdom," Matsui continued . "My heart is with Jim, Barney’s loved ones, and all who were changed by his remarkable life."