Tuesday, May 13, 2008

A politician to be proud of...

Thanks to Jay for the lead to an article in the NYTimes about one of our state's best Representatives, Barney Frank.

There are plenty of reason for Dems to like Barney, but what really makes this profile encouraging is how highly Republicans speak of his operating style. (Especially compared with how past Republicans have spoken of him.)

Maybe everyone can't be as smart and witty as Barney. Still, there seem to be things that can be learned from Barney by other politicians...and some bloggers.

Mr. Paulson has said that when he arrived in Washington, he was surprised to discover Mr. Frank's keen understanding of Wall Street, given his lack of work experience in the private sector. In an interview, Mr. Paulson said he had enjoyed Mr. Frank's penchant for brokering deals.

"Because he is looking to get things done and make a difference, he focuses on areas of agreement and tries to build on those," Mr. Paulson said. "He doesn't waste anybody's time, your time or his."


I thought Barney would be a little more partisan. But I'm happy that he's been loyal to the party and his issues, but has found ways to be practical and effective. What more can you ask?

"Barney has been very fair," said Representative Dana Rohrabacher of California and one of the most conservative members of the House. "I think that I have been treated more fairly, and a number of my Republican colleagues have been treated more fairly, since the Democrats have become the majority than I was treated by my own leadership."


I always think it unfortunate that as a gay man he never stood a chance to seek much higher office in his time, even without the scandal. The scandal itself was also very disappointing.

But there is a lot to like about Barney Frank and the way he operates. Plus, like Paulson says in the article,

"It's always more fun to work with someone who has got a sense of humor."

If not for the times and the scandal, think about where he could've gone.

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