Small Group in Congress Refusing to Get COVID-19 Vaccine The diverse group includes Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) and Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.). The main reason is a desire to see those most at risk get vaccinated, though some members of Congress are concerned about the vaccine’s side effects. “We are not more important then frontline workers, teachers etc. who are making sacrifices everyday. Which is why I won’t take it. People who need it most, should get it. Full stop,” Omar said in a recent statement. “It is inappropriate for me—who has already gotten the virus/has immunity—to get in front of elderly/health care workers,” Paul added in a tweet on Monday.