Statement of Henry M. Paulson, Jr. on the passing of Barney Frank

With Barney Frank’s passing, America has lost one of its very best. Barney personified what it means to be an effective legislator. He was smart, candid, trustworthy, and pragmatic, willing to work across the aisle to get things done. When we were at the brink during the 2008 financial crisis, Barney was crucial to securing passage of legislation that gave the government the tools it needed to avert financial meltdown. His sense of humor brought levity to even the darkest days of the crisis. He was a patriot, willing to do what was necessary even if it was deeply unpopular. I was honored to work with him and to call him a friend.