Ohio Republican Representative Max Miller announced on Sunday that he will continue his campaign for reelection, denying allegations of domestic abuse against his ex-wife and their daughter during a livestream on X. Following his announcement, his ex-father-in-law, Senator Bernie Moreno, criticized him as a "danger" to his daughter and unfit for office.
Miller stated that no court or government agency has substantiated any abuse allegations against him and that he has never faced criminal charges. He mentioned that a child-welfare agency deemed two reports of abuse as unsubstantiated. He also denied claims made by his ex-wife, Emily Moreno, regarding an incident where she alleged he threw hot water at her and sprayed her with a sink hose, describing the event as "horseplay."
In response, Senator Moreno expressed concern for his granddaughter's safety, stating, "He is a danger to my daughter, and I hold my breath every minute he has custody of my granddaughter." He further asserted that Miller does not meet the character standards required for elected office.
Emily Moreno has accused Miller of physical abuse during their marriage, while Miller has countersued her for defamation. He has also faced previous allegations from ex-girlfriend Stephanie Grisham, which he denied and later settled.
Miller is set to face Democrat Brian Poindexter in the upcoming election for Ohio's 7th congressional district, a region that has historically supported Republican candidates. The deadline for triggering a special election to replace Miller on the ballot is Wednesday.