While the Commissioner plans to take the COVID-19 vaccine, he will wait until it is more widely available to Kentuckians who need it most

FRANKFORT (Dec. 27, 2020) – After Governor Beshear invited Commissioner Quarles and other constitutional officers to take the COVID-19 vaccine, the Commissioner released the following statement:

"I plan on taking the vaccine, but I will wait for my turn in line,” Commissioner Quarles said. “Though I appreciate the Governor’s invitation, as a healthy 37-year old man with no underlying conditions I would rather my early access vaccine be given to a high-risk individual like a frontline worker or a resident of a long-term care facility, two groups who have unfortunately borne the brunt of the coronavirus. I understand the Centers for Disease Control’s recommendation that officials like the Governor and top legislators be vaccinated for the sake of government continuity, but I do not believe rank-and-file politicians should be leapfrogging over those who are at higher risk of infection.

I want to thank President Trump, Vice President Pence, and our medical professionals for their work through Operation Warp Speed to produce this modern day miracle, a safe and effective vaccine. But if it means saving one more life, I will wait in line just like everyone else.”