Obama, other Dems, Sen. Brown praise US Rep. Frank

BOSTON -- President Barack Obama is praising U.S. Rep. Barney Frank as a fierce advocate for people in Massachusetts and across the country.

Obama said Frank, who announced Monday he won't seek reelection, worked to make housing more affordable, defend the rights of gay and lesbian Americans and overhaul the nation's financial system.

Obama was joined by a long list of fellow Democrats in praising Frank.

Gov. Deval Patrick said Massachusetts voters have long known Frank for his wit and passion for service. Malden Democratic US Rep. Edward Markey praised what he called Frank's tireless defense of the poor and vulnerable.

Republican U.S. Sen. Scott Brown said that while the two were on opposite sides of the political aisle, they found common ground on issues like the welfare of the state's veterans and fishermen.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)