One of the more visible politicians at the centre of Ontario’s response to COVID is stepping aside.
Christine Elliott has announced after considerable reflection and discussion with her family, she will not seek re-election this June.
The MPP for Newmarket-Aurora will leave behind 16 years of service.
Elliott, who is also the Deputy Premier, says up until the vote she will continue to support the Ford government without hesitation.
She has served as the government’s health minister since Premier Doug Ford and the Progressive Conservatives took office in 2018.
Elliott was first elected in 2006.
She says she decided to run because of a strong desire to improve the quality of life of individuals with special needs, as well as mental health challenges.
Elliott notes she saw gaps in care that motivated her to take action.
In a statement on social media, she went on to say, “The COVID-19 pandemic has tested us all, but none more so than our incredible frontline health care workers. I want to express my profound admiration of gratitude for all who provide care to Ontarians each and every day. They do so bravely, selflessly, and at great expense to their own personal lives and circumstances.”
Elliott adds, “I want to thank my staff, as well as the public servants, particularly at the Ministry of Health, for their tireless efforts supporting and executing the absolutely herculean task of managing a once-in-a-lifetime crisis like COVID-19.”
I recently shared with Premier Ford I will not be seeking re-election in June. Until then, I will continue what has been the honour of a lifetime to support our gov’t as Minister of Health.
To the people of Newmarket-Aurora, thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you. pic.twitter.com/VH5EbCHh2c
— Christine Elliott (@celliottability) March 4, 2022
