Gay rights and longtime Democratic Congressman Barney Frank dies at 86

WBUR | By Anthony Brooks

Published May 20, 2026 at 5:58 PM EDT

Barney Frank has died. The longtime Democratic congressman from Massachusetts brought new visibility to gay rights. He also helped craft significant changes to the financial system in a generation.

Anthony Brooks

WRVO is at a critical moment.

Recent cuts to federal funding are challenging our mission to serve central and upstate New York with trusted journalism, vital local coverage, and the diverse programming that informs and connects our communities. This is the moment to join our community of supporters and help keep journalists on the ground, asking hard questions that matter to our region.

Stand with public media and make your gift today—not just for yourself, but for all who depend on WRVO as a trusted resource and civic cornerstone in central and upstate New York.

Support WRVO now