York Centre MPP Roman Baber formally threw his hat in the ring for the leadership of the federal Conservative party March 9.

Baber sits as an Independent since he was ejected from the provincial Conservative caucus by Ontario Premier Doug Ford a year ago for opposing lockdowns and vaccination mandates.

The 42-year-old lawyer was born in Russia and moved to Israel as a child. As a teenager, he moved with his family to the riding, where he attended high school.  He was first elected as MPP in 2018.

At his announcement, Baber reiterated his opposition to COVID lockdowns and to mandatory vaccinations. “Lockdowns were the greatest policy error of our generation,” he told the crowd, who were largely unmasked.

He cited his own humble start in Canada, saying “my first mattress was from a recycling bin,” and said the Conservative party needs to appeal to new Canadians and those who live in urban areas.

Baber also pledged to oppose Quebec’s Bill 21, the secularism law which prevents public servants, including teachers, police officers and judges, from wearing identifiable religious symbols, including head coverings.

“My federal government will defend Canadians against Bill 21,” he said. “Canadians shouldn’t have to choose between their faith and their ability to put food on the table. I will defend the right of every Canadian to be open about their faith.”

Baber enters a crowded race to replace former leader Erin O’Toole. The candidates who have already declared to be in the running include MP Pierre Poilievre, MP Leslyn Lewis and former Quebec premier Jean Charest.