State Farm, Sen. Ron Johnson respond to Rodgers vaccine controversy

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The drama swirling around Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers continues. This, after the public learned he did not get the COVID-19 vaccine and revealed his skepticism over it. 

Over the weekend, Prevea Health released a statement saying the decision was made to end the company's nine-year partnership with Rodgers, adding that Prevea continues to encourage eligible populations to become vaccinated. Still, the quarterback does have some people in his corner.

Rodgers' statement in August, "I'm immunized," created a firestorm for him after it was revealed he had not received a COVID-19 vaccine. 

"I'm not some sort of anti-vax flat-Earther, I'm somebody who's a critical thinker, you guys know me I march to the beat of my own drum," said Rodgers on the Pat McAfee Show Friday, Nov. 5. 

State Farm Insurance is standing by the reigning MVP quarterback saying: 

"Aaron Rodgers has been a great ambassador for our company for much of the past decade. We don’t support some of the statements that he has made, but we respect his right to have his own personal point of view. We recognize our customers, employees, agents and brand ambassadors come from all walks of life, with differing viewpoints on many issues. Our mission at State Farm is to support safer, stronger communities. To that end, we encourage vaccinations, but respect everyone’s right to make a choice based on their personal circumstances."

Republican U.S. Senator Ron Johnson echoed his support for Rodgers. 

"He's defending his own health anatomy, he's defending people's personal choice in freedom," said Johnson. 

Medical experts say there is no alternative to the COVID-19 vaccine. They say the best way to protect yourself from serious or long-term complications is to get vaccinated.