MPP Stan Cho resigns from cabinet after hotel expense controversy
Ontario MPP Stan Cho has resigned from his cabinet position following a controversy over his use of public funds for hotel expenses. Premier Doug Ford has demanded that all caucus members repay similar expenses, as the government moves to eliminate the controversial reimbursement rule.
Why it matters
This highlights issues of government transparency and the ethical use of taxpayer money by elected officials.
In a statement shared on social media, Cho said he was resigning effective immediately and was taking "full responsibility" for his "mistake." He said he would continue to serve as MPP of Willowdale, a north Toronto riding.
He said he reviewed every claim he made for accommodations in Toronto when legislature sat late and was "satisfied they met the criteria set out in the members' guide."
Cho said on late nights he "made a choice that was easier," but that he did not consider how the decision would look to a constituent "working a double shift."
"Looking back now, I made a mistake," he said, adding he doesn't want to be a distraction from the party's plan for the province.
"I have therefore personally repaid those expenses in full, to the penny."
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