2015 2015: Former congressman Barney Frank to discuss 2016 presidential race and new book at UMass Dartmouth

Public forum and book signing takes place October 19

UMass Dartmouth will welcome former congressman Barney Frank to campus for a public forum on the 2016 presidential race followed by a book signing for his new book Frank: A Life in Politics from the Great Society to Same-Sex Marriage. The public forum and book signing will take place October 19, at 5 p.m., at UMass Dartmouth’s Claire T. Carney Library Stoico/FIRSTFED Foundation Grand Reading Room.

The early 21st century's answer to Mark Twain . . . one of the most idiosyncratic, influential and entertaining people to serve [in Congress].

Congressman Frank, whose former district included New Bedford, Dartmouth and part of Fall River, donated many historical documents and papers to establish the Congressman Barney Frank Collection at the Claire T. Carney Library. The majority of the collection spans his congressional career. National issues covered include financial reform, gay rights, the housing crisis, immigration reform, military spending, and environmental protection. Records of his many electoral campaigns for the U.S. House of Representatives include the hard-fought win over Republican Margaret Heckler in the 4th district in 1982.The collection also includes material on legislation he sponsored when he served in the Massachusetts State Legislature.

Barney Frank served in Congress from 1981 to 2013, serving as chairman of the House Financial Services Committee from 2007 to 2011. Previously he was a Massachusetts State Representative and an assistant to the Mayor of Boston. He has also taught at several Boston area universities.