Former Congressman Barney Frank, Now in Hospice, Offers Democrats Frank Words of Advice
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Barney Frank, the retired Democratic congressman, is in hospice care but remains actively engaged, hosting friends and sharing his views on the Democratic Party's future from his home in Maine.
- Frank criticizes the Democratic left for pushing too quickly on issues like transgender rights and Medicare, which he believes alienates moderate voters and hampers the party's chances of winning elections.
- He expresses concern over progressive candidates, citing examples like Graham Platner in Maine, suggesting the party is backing the wrong figures for broader appeal.
- Despite his critiques, Frank remains hopeful about the Democratic Party's prospects but urges a more measured approach to social change to regain mainstream support.
- Frank’s reflections and advice are detailed further in a forthcoming book scheduled for release in September.