Rep. Barney Frank (D-Massachusetts) plans to retire from Congress after 16 terms in office, a move that could affect tribal interests.

Frank is the top Democrat on the House Financial Services Committee. He supports legalization of Internet gaming but tribes have opposed or expressed concerns about all of the bills that have been introduced so far.

Frank also used his position to support legislation to cut federal funds to the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma. He has said the Freedmen, who are the descendants of former slaves, should remain citizens of the tribe.

Frank is due to announce his decision at a press conference this afternoon.

Get the Story:
Barney Frank not to seek reelection in 2012 (The Boston Globe 11/28)
Rep. Barney Frank retiring (The Washington Post 11/28)