Patrick Brown resigns as PC Leader

Patrick Brown is resigning as Ontario’s Opposition leader amid allegations of sexual misconduct.

He announced the decision in a statement this morning, just hours after a hastily-called news conference in which the Progressive Conservative leader “categorically” denied what he called “troubling allegations” about his conduct and his character.

He vowed to stay on to clear his name, but in the later statement, Brown said he decided to step down after consulting with caucus, friends and family.

In his late-night news conference, a visibly emotional Brown said he was made aware of the allegations hours earlier, but did not provide details, adding they are “categorically untrue.”

CTV News has reported that two unidentified women have come forward with graphic sexual misconduct allegations against Brown that date back to when he was a federal M-P.

Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli issued the following statement overnight:

“This evening, we learned of disturbing allegations leveled against Patrick Brown.
“The Ontario PC Caucus unanimously agrees that Mr. Brown cannot continue serving as the Leader.
“Mr. Brown is entitled to a legal defense and due process, but he cannot lead us into an election as a result of these allegations.
“The Ontario PC Caucus unequivocally upholds the principle that a safe and respectful society is what we expect and deserve. We need to move forward to eradicate sexual violence and harassment across the province.
“Our caucus will immediately consult with party officials and members on best way to move forward to defeat the Wynne government in the 2018 election.
“We will not be diverted from our mission to ensure our strong team can share our message of change.”

(With files from The Canadian Press)

PHOTO: Ontario Progressive Conservative Leader Patrick Brown speaks at a press conference at Queen’s Park in Toronto on Wednesday, January 24, 2018. Ontario Progressive Conservative Leader Patrick Brown says he “categorically” denies “troubling allegations” about his conduct. A visibly emotional Brown said he was made aware of the allegations earlier on Wednesday, but he did not provide details on what those allegations are. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Aaron Vincent Elkaim