Via Gay Poltics Report:

• Barney Frank to end congressional career
  Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., the longest-serving openly gay member of Congress and among the most high-profile LGBT advocates in America, has decided not to stand for re-election to the U.S. House next year, citing redrawn congressional districts that would make it much tougher for him to win another election. First elected in 1980, Frank came out while serving his fourth term in 1987. "His decision to come out as gay more than two decades ago gave LGBT Americans an authentic voice and a persistent champion in Washington. ... We will miss that voice," said Chuck Wolfe, president and CEO of the Victory Fund. Frank said he expects he’ll write and teach, but vowed not to become a lobbyist. The Boston Globe/Political Intelligence blog (tiered subscription model) (11/29), Washington Blade (11/28), Gay City News (New York) (11/28)     

 

• Gay, lesbian House colleagues laud Frank's leadership: Openly gay and lesbian U.S. Reps. Tammy Baldwin, Jared Polis and David Cicilline praised their colleague, U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., following his announcement that his current term in Congress will be his last. "Barney Frank was a groundbreaking pioneer and one of the most insightful, knowledgeable and humorous people ever to grace the halls of Congress," said Polis, a Democrat from Colorado. Metro Weekly (Washington, D.C.)/Poliglot blog (11/28)     

• Frank wants to debate Gingrich on marriage: Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., this week said he'd like to debate former House Speaker Newt Gingrich on the issue of marriage. "I look forward to debating, to take one important example, the Defense of Marriage Act with Mr. Gingrich. I think he is an ideal opponent for us, when we talk about just who it is, is threatening the sanctity of marriage," Frank told reporters assembled to hear his announcement that he would not seek re-election. The Huffington Post/Gay Voices (11/28)