Ontario Tourism, Culture and Gaming Minister Stan Cho resigned from the provincial cabinet after billing taxpayers for downtown Toronto hotel stays.

The resignation follows a week of public backlash and political outcry over the use of public funds for lodging. The scandal centers on the appropriateness of using government money for hotels when the minister lived within commuting distance of the legislature.

Cho billed a total of $16,203 [1] in hotel expenses over the last three years. These expenses were incurred at hotels in downtown Toronto while Cho served as a cabinet member under Premier Doug Ford. Critics highlighted that Cho's residence is only six kilometres, or about seven subway stops, from Queen's Park [2].

"I made a mistake," Cho said.

Following the revelations, Cho committed to returning the funds to the province. "I will pay the money back," Cho said.

Premier Doug Ford confirmed the departure of the Willowdale MPP from his cabinet. "I have accepted the resignation of Stan Cho from cabinet," Ford said.

The controversy intensified as details emerged regarding the proximity of the minister's home to the Ontario Legislative Building. The billing of more than $16,000 [3] for local accommodations raised significant concerns regarding the misuse of public funds, and the adherence to government expense policies.

“"I made a mistake."”

This resignation reflects a heightened sensitivity toward government spending and accountability in Ontario. By resigning and offering to repay the funds, Cho sought to mitigate a political liability for Premier Ford's administration, which faces scrutiny over how public money is managed at the cabinet level.