Representative Max Miller remains committed to seeking a third term despite facing domestic violence allegations. Miller has rejected growing calls to withdraw from the Ohio 7th Congressional District race, stating he plans to complete his reelection campaign and expects a win in November. However, former President Donald Trump has expressed concerns about Miller’s candidacy, describing it as unfavorably perceived, a source reported.
Emily Moreno, Miller’s former wife and daughter of Republican Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno, has accused him of past domestic abuse, alleging he threatened her with a firearm and physically assaulted her. Miller vehemently denies these claims. Senator Moreno has urged Miller to step down, describing the ongoing custody battle over the couple’s two-year-old daughter as a significant ordeal for the family.
If a candidate exits the race more than 90 days before the election, Ohio law requires a special primary election, according to Ohio Secretary of State officials. Should Miller choose to withdraw, the deadline for replacement is 86 days before the election, specifically August 10. At that point, district county party chairs would select a new candidate. The most populous county party must give a two-day notice before that meeting, citing state regulations, according to spokesperson Ben Kindel.
Republican insiders reveal that talks to replace Miller are escalating despite his determination to remain in the race. Potential replacements mentioned include State Representative Mike Dovilla and former U.S. Representative Jim Renacci, as stated by WKYC. Internal polling shows Miller trailing his Democratic challenger, Brian Poindexter, by 5 percentage points, with 16 percent of voters undecided. The district leaned heavily toward Trump in 2024, suggesting a challenging environment for Miller. Poindexter, endorsed by Senator Bernie Sanders, contends that those facing abuse allegations should not hold office.
The odds for Republicans to win this race stand at 31 percent as the party strives to maintain House control, data compiled by Polymarket shows. They had reached 87 percent in February but have since declined. The Democratic Women’s Caucus has also called for Miller’s resignation, citing his alleged abuse as troubling and pressing for congressional action. They criticized Miller for actions including the release of private images of his daughter, which could potentially be classified as child abuse material. His attorney has taken responsibility for this disclosure.
The Caucus expressed disappointment in having to address misconduct instead of focusing on national priorities, highlighting a prevailing culture of abuse by political figures. Miller, maintaining he has nothing to hide, announced he will initiate his own ethics probe to address the allegations. He looks forward to providing all necessary documentation for investigation and stands firm in denial of any wrongdoing.
An investigation by the House Ethics Committee will examine whether Miller was involved in domestic violence or illegal drug use. In a CNN appearance, Miller defended himself, asserting his innocence and noting his joint custody of his daughter. He remains hopeful about his reelection chances come November. Attempts to reach Miller’s spokesperson for comment were unanswered.