Ford Just Booted An Ontario MPP From Caucus After He Refused To Get Vaccinated

MPP Rick Nicholls has been ejected from the PC caucus for refusing to get a COVID-19 vaccine.

Premier Doug Ford said in a press release, "MPP Rick Nicholls has failed to provide a legitimate reason for exemption from vaccination. As a consequence, he is no longer a sitting member of the PC caucus and will not be permitted to seek re-election as a PC candidate."

Ford said elected officials need to be vaccinated because they are expected to "lead by example" and "must rightfully be held to a higher standard."

"The very nature of their work requires political leaders to interact daily with members of the public, including those most vulnerable to COVID-19. It is my expectation that every PC caucus member and candidate not only support the role vaccines play in the fight against COVID-19, but also be vaccinated to protect themselves and the people in their community," said Ford.

Nicholls said in a news conference on August 19 that he made a personal decision to not get vaccinated.

"I made the personal decision not to inoculate with the COVID-19 vaccine. I took the premier at his word that vaccination is a choice and that all Ontarians have a constitutional right to make such a choice," said Nicholls.

"Like almost two million eligible Ontarians, I choose to exercise this autonomy over my own body while continuing to work hard for the people of Ontario."

MPP Christina Mitas also remains unvaccinated but will not be removed from caucus.

"MPP Christina Mitas will remain in caucus as she has provided a statement of medical exemption signed by a physician and made assurances she will take additional precautions while carrying out her duties as an elected representative," said Ford.

Health Canada has a robust website with all the latest information on COVID-19 vaccines and can answer any questions you may have.