Online gambling’s political champion makes congressional history

One of online gambling’s strongest political supporters, Democrat Barney Frank (72), became the first Congressman to enter into a same-sex union when he married his long-time partner, James Ready (42) this weekend.

According to a Reuters report, the Massachusetts Democrat and his partner were married in an evening ceremony at the Boston Marriott Newton at which state governor Deval Patrick officiated. The function was attended by a number of senior politicians.

Patrick reportedly jested that the two had taken vows to love each other through Democratic and Republican administrations alike, and even through appearances on Fox News.

Congressman Frank has fought for online gambling legalisation in the United States for years, and is also a vigorous campaigner for gay rights and the reform of Wall Street financial services.

Frank’s office in January announced he would marry Ready, whom he met at a political fundraiser in Ready’s home state of Maine. Ready lives in Ogunquit, where he does carpentry, painting and welding work. The duo have had a relationship since 2007.

A Congressman since 1980, Frank announced earlier this year that he is to retire at the end of the current term.

Reuters reports that Massachusetts became the first US state to permit same-sex marriages. More than 18,000 same-sex couples since then have wed in Massachusetts.

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