Barney Frank Dies at 86: When Husband Jim Ready Revealed He ‘Had a Crush on Him for 20 Years’
Former U.S. Congressman Barney Frank, one of America’s most influential political figures and a pioneering advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, has died at the age of 86. Frank, who spent more than three decades representing Massachusetts in Congress, leaves behind a legacy defined by financial reform, civil rights advocacy, and historic representation for the LGBTQ+ community.
Frank passed away on May 19, 2026, after battling congestive heart failure and spending his final weeks under hospice care at his home in Maine alongside his husband, Jim Ready. His death marks the end of a political career that reshaped modern American finance and helped transform LGBTQ+ visibility in public office.
Widely recognized as one of the first openly gay members of Congress, Frank publicly came out in 1987 — a groundbreaking move at a time when few national politicians openly discussed their sexuality. His decision became a defining moment in American political history and inspired many future LGBTQ+ leaders.
Beyond his political achievements, Frank’s personal life also captured national attention, especially his relationship with Jim Ready, whom he married in July 2012. The wedding made history because Frank became the first sitting member of Congress to enter a same-sex marriage while still serving in office.
Their love story began years earlier at a political fundraiser in Maine in 2005. Ready later shared a memorable detail about their first interaction that would resonate widely after Frank’s passing.
“I told him I had a crush on him for 20 years,” Ready once said, recalling that as a teenager he admired Frank after the congressman publicly acknowledged being gay.
What began as admiration eventually evolved into a lasting partnership. Friends and colleagues often described Ready as a calming and supportive presence in Frank’s life, balancing the outspoken and often sharp-witted congressman’s intense public persona.
Frank’s influence stretched far beyond social issues. He played a major role in shaping American financial policy, most notably by co-authoring the landmark Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act after the 2008 financial crisis. The legislation transformed banking oversight and created stronger consumer protections following the economic collapse.
During his 32 years in Congress, Frank became known for his intelligence, humor, and willingness to work across party lines. Even political opponents often respected his deep understanding of policy and direct communication style.
Following retirement in 2013, Frank remained politically active, speaking publicly on democracy, equality, and economic fairness. Even in his final months, he continued sharing views about the future of American politics and progressive movements.
As tributes continue pouring in across political and LGBTQ+ communities, many are remembering not only Barney Frank the legislator, but Barney Frank the trailblazer — and the enduring partnership that helped define his later years with Jim Ready beside him.
