Republican Congressman Max Miller is under intense pressure to withdraw from the upcoming midterm elections following serious domestic abuse allegations made by his former wife, Emily Moreno. The controversy has sparked concerns within the Republican Party about potentially losing a competitive seat in Ohio.
Miller, a former aide in President Donald Trump's administration, has denied the accusations, asserting that no court or official agency has validated any abuse claims against him. He remains determined to continue his reelection campaign despite calls to step aside before the Wednesday deadline that would allow the GOP to replace him on the ballot.
The allegations stem from a contentious custody battle and include claims that Miller physically harmed Moreno and endangered their young daughter, who reportedly suffered a broken collarbone while in his care. Miller has responded by filing a defamation lawsuit and questioning his ex-wife's mental health.
The situation escalated when Senator Bernie Moreno, Emily Moreno's father and Miller's former father-in-law, publicly urged Miller to resign, citing the congressman's "erratic and dangerous behavior" and expressing concerns for the safety of his daughter and granddaughter.
Party leadership has largely refrained from direct comments. Speaker Mike Johnson and senior House Republicans have avoided taking a stance, while Ohio representatives Jim Jordan and Mike Turner described the matter as private and judicial. Former President Trump has acknowledged the allegations but stopped short of demanding Miller's withdrawal.
Ohio's 7th Congressional District, which Trump won by 11 points in 2024, was narrowly secured by Miller with just over 50% of the vote. Recent polls indicate Democrat Brian Poindexter, a union ironworker, is gaining ground, leading Miller by five points in a survey conducted by a Republican firm, signaling a possible upset in November.
