Ohio Republican Calls for Ethics Probe as Domestic Abuse Allegations Threaten Re-election Bid

Rep. Max Miller, R-Ohio, announced plans to file for a House Ethics Committee investigation into himself Tuesday in an effort to counter domestic abuse allegations leveled by his ex-wife during his re-election campaign. Miller has maintained his innocence throughout the controversy and blamed both his former spouse and her father, Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, of orchestrating a political attack against him. “I have absolutely nothing to hide,” Miller stated on social media, promising to supply all documentation necessary for a thorough committee review.

Emily Moreno, who separated from Miller in 2024 after a two-year marriage, has accused him of physically assaulting her and their young daughter on multiple occasions. Her allegations include claims that Miller scalded her with boiling water, held a firearm to her head, and caused injuries to their daughter that required emergency medical treatment. Miller countered that the water incident involved horseplay rather than abuse and denied that the liquid was actually boiling, while characterizing marks on their daughter as resulting from a finger-painting activity rather than injury.

The House Ethics Committee confirmed Tuesday it would formally investigate whether Miller engaged in domestic violence, abuse, or illegal drug use. Miller has asserted that prior investigations into the allegations found no basis for criminal charges. He suggested in a weekend video that his ex-wife’s mental health history may have influenced her accusations, noting that relevant authorities have not substantiated any of her claims.

Sen. Moreno publicly called for Miller to resign from Congress on Tuesday, stating the congressman “fails to meet that minimum basic standard” for holding elected office. The senator further described Miller as a “danger” to both his daughter and granddaughter, with whom Miller maintains shared custody. The intensifying family dispute has now extended to the highest levels of government, creating significant political fallout.

The scandal threatens Miller’s previously secure re-election prospects in his Cleveland-area district, a traditionally safe Republican seat that Democrats now view as vulnerable. GOP insiders expressed concern about the political damage, with one party source calling the situation a “trainwreck,” while another House Republican suggested Miller should withdraw from the race. Some party members also called for similar withdrawals from Reps. Chuck Edwards of North Carolina and Cory Mills of Florida, who face separate harassment allegations.

Miller has refused to step aside, expressing confidence in his ability to win in November despite mounting pressure and public scrutiny. The House Ethics Committee previously recommended censuring Rep. Edwards over allegations regarding his conduct toward female staffers, adding to concerns about unresolved misconduct cases within the chamber.