The death of former US Congressman Barney Frank at 86 removes a significant vector of American soft power. A key architect of the Dodd-Frank financial reforms, Frank’s legacy extends beyond domestic politics. London’s swift praise underscores the UK’s reliance on transatlantic alliances, particularly in the ideological battle against hostile state actors who weaponise anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment.
Expect adversaries to exploit this vacuum, potentially through disinformation campaigns targeting vulnerable populations. The West must now recalibrate its messaging, leveraging other figures to maintain momentum. Failure to do so invites a strategic pivot by authoritarians who view LGBTQ+ rights as a weakness to be exploited.
