Liberal MP Ken McDonald claimed that he had been harassed on social media after he was accused of making an obscene hand gesture during a vote on the federal carbon tax. McDonald stated that he received threats of violence and death, causing fear for his staff and family. Despite people interpreting his action as giving a rude gesture, McDonald explained that he had simply scratched the side of his head with two fingers.
The MP from Newfoundland and Labrador denied making any obscene gestures during the Nov. 6 vote. He was the only Liberal MP to vote with the Conservatives to get rid of the carbon tax, citing harm to rural Canadians and a decrease in the Liberals’ chances of being re-elected. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau put a temporary halt on the carbon price for home heating oil weeks after the vote. However, the controversy over the gesture continued to cause tension within the House of Commons.
Conservative whip Kerry Lynne-Findlay accused McDonald of giving the finger to those who were struggling, while Conservative MP Andrew Scheer stated that Canadians could decide for themselves what occurred during the vote. Despite the heated exchanges, House of Commons Speaker Greg Fergus was unable to determine whether an offensive gesture was made. He stated that the review of the video could not lead to a conclusive determination and ultimately considered the matter closed.