Key facts
- Rep. Max Miller is facing domestic abuse allegations from his ex-wife, Emily Moreno.
- Moreno alleges Miller pointed a gun at her, poured hot water on her, and potentially broke their daughter's collarbone.
- Miller denies all allegations and has stated investigations have been closed.
- Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno, Miller's father-in-law, has called for Miller to resign.
- Miller faces Democrat Brian Poindexter in a congressional election this November.
- Miller previously served as a presidential aide and was endorsed by Donald Trump.
Ohio Republican Congressman Max Miller is facing significant political pressure and potential re-election challenges following domestic abuse allegations made by his ex-wife, Emily Moreno. Moreno, daughter of Republican Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno, has accused Miller of serious misconduct, including pointing a gun at her head, pouring hot water on her, and potentially causing their infant daughter's collarbone to break. Senator Moreno has publicly called for Miller to resign, stating he is a danger to his daughter and granddaughter.
Miller has vehemently denied all allegations, attributing them to a campaign by his former wife and what he terms "leftwing media." In a 23-minute interview with CNN's Jake Tapper, Miller attempted to defend himself, questioning why police were not investigating the claims and drawing parallels to allegations faced by Donald Trump. He previously served as a presidential aide during Trump's administration and received his endorsement in 2021.
However, reports indicate that Trump's support for Miller may be wavering. The deadline for the Ohio Republican party to replace Miller on the ballot is August 12, adding urgency to the situation. Local Republican officials, like Bill Heck, vice-chair of the Medina county party, acknowledge that voters are concerned and that they are trying to determine the credibility of the allegations.
Political analysts suggest Miller's position is precarious. Justin Buchler, a political science professor at Case Western Reserve University, noted that while the district leans Republican, a combination of midterm election trends favoring Democrats and a weakened Republican candidate could lead to a flip. Miller faces Democrat Brian Poindexter, a union ironworker, in November.
This is not the first time Miller has faced allegations of violence. Former White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham has accused him of physical abuse. The Miller family is a well-established and respected name in northeastern Ohio, with Max's grandfather being a notable real estate mogul and philanthropist. However, some local voters, like David Griffith, a former Republican, have expressed disillusionment, with Griffith stating he will vote a straight Democratic ticket this election due to Miller's alleged behavior.