Barney Frank, Massachusets  Democratic Representative, said he will retire from Congress at the end of the year.

(Creative Commons)

This decision is opposite of what Frank said earlier this year saying he would seek reelection. 

Wall Street Journal reported that Frank was a major force behind the Dodd-Frank financial policy which had heavy restrictions on banks.  He defended the law against republican critics.

Politico.com reported Democratic Parch Chairman John Walsh's opinions on Frank:

In a state that has sent many great leaders to Washington, Barney Frank will take his place in history as a shining son of Massachusetts. Barney has been a tireless advocate for justice and equality who has stood up for Massachusetts’ fisherman, fought for economic development on the South Coast and provided the driving force behind landmark Wall Street reform legislation.

Frank will officially announce the retirement at a press conference in Newton, Mass. today at 1pm.