House Ethics Committee Probes Allegations Against Rep. Max Miller

The House Ethics Committee announced on Tuesday its investigation into domestic abuse allegations against Republican Representative Max Miller. The Ohio congressman is under scrutiny as he faces pressure from former President Donald Trump and criticism from his former father-in-law, Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno.

Miller, who served as a senior adviser to Trump during his presidency, has until Wednesday to decide on his reelection bid. Republicans are concerned that these allegations might harm their chances of maintaining a majority in the House during this year’s midterms.

The Ethics Committee’s leaders stated they are assessing whether Miller engaged in domestic violence, abuse, or illegal drug use. Miller responded earlier by requesting a probe into accusations made by his ex-wife, Emily Moreno. It remains unclear if his request led to the committee’s decision.

A source revealed that Trump privately told Miller his candidacy “doesn’t look good,” a discussion first reported by Axios. Despite Trump’s caution, Miller announced during a CNN interview on Tuesday that he plans to stay in the race.

“‘Maxie, it’s going to be a tough race. And he said, I don’t know if you’re going to be able to, you know, pull this one out,’” Miller quoted Trump during their conversation. Miller added: “I will never, ever, ever let my baby girl see her dad walk away as a quitter. I will continue to finish this.”

The former aide, endorsed by Trump in May, faces legal challenges from his ex-wife, Senator Moreno’s daughter, and an ex-girlfriend. Initially silent on the matter, Sen. Moreno publicly expressed the toll on his family on Tuesday, calling it “the seventh level of hell.” He criticized Miller’s capability of meeting the standards of public service.

Regarding election effects for Republicans, Moreno dismissed political considerations, showing concern for his granddaughter. He recounted traveling to a Cleveland police station where Miller was dropping off their shared 2-year-old daughter.

Over the weekend, Miller broadcasted a video defending himself and shared documents about his divorce and custody cases. Moreno’s call for Miller’s removal from public office followed this video.

In contrast, Trump refrained from public opinion on whether Miller should exit the race, acknowledging the charges as “allegations.” He described Miller as a “good person,” leaving it to the families to address the issue.