Barney Frank Announces He is Not Running in 2012

U.S. Representative Barney Frank (D-4th) announced today that he will not run for re-election in 2012, according to a press release issued.

The 16-term Newton Democrat that he was planning to run in 2012. However, today he held a press conference at  "to formally announce and answer questions about his decision not to run for re-election in 2012."

The Fourth District , giving more Worcester and Norfolk county towns to Frank including Milford and part of Bellingham. Some sources report these changes were a factor in Frank's decision. 

Frank, 71, . 

Newton Mayor Setti Warren, who plans to attend the 1 p.m. press conference, issued a statement Tuesday morning lauding Frank's work in Congress over the last three decades. 

"For over 30 years, Congressman Frank has exemplified what it means to be a public servant," Warren said in today's statement. "From his years on the Massachusetts House of Representatives, and throughout his tenure as representative from the Fourth Congressional District, Congressman Frank has demonstrated an unrivaled commitment to fighting for equal opportunity and improving the quality of life for all communities. He has been a true friend to the city of Newton. It has been a great honor to work with Congressman Frank, and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors."

More recently, to speak to a crowd of residents who gathered to voice concerns about the closing of several Newton Post Offices. 

Frank will hold a separate meeting in Washington D.C. tomorrow to answer questions for reporters based in the Capital.