House Republican leadership and national campaign organizations are maintaining support for Rep. Max Miller (R-OH) in his reelection bid despite domestic abuse allegations involving his ex-wife. Miller, who has denied the claims, faces an investigation by the House Ethics Committee. While Speaker Mike Johnson and House Republican Conference Chair Lisa McClain have signaled support for his candidacy, they have indicated they will not participate in public campaign events with him in Ohio.
The situation followed public accusations by Emily Moreno, Miller’s ex-wife and daughter of Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-OH). Moreno alleged Miller threw hot water at her, pointed a firearm at her head, and injured their daughter. Miller has denied these claims and characterized his ex-wife as mentally unstable. The House Ethics Committee is currently reviewing the matter alongside allegations of illegal drug use.
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) stated last week that Miller is a "great member" who is "running a good campaign," but he added he has "no plans" to travel to Ohio to campaign with him. Rep. Lisa McClain (R-MI), chair of the House Republican Conference, said she supports "anybody with an 'R' behind their name" but noted that "divorces are really ugly." Meanwhile, the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) has partnered with Miller’s campaign for a $450,000 advertisement buy that began on September 7.
The race affects Ohio’s 7th Congressional District, a seat previously considered a secure Republican hold. One co/efficient survey reported that 48 percent of respondents are less likely to support Miller due to what they have heard about the allegations. Among Republican voters in the district, 37 percent said the reports made them less likely to vote for him. The Cook Political Report has downgraded the seat from "solid Republican" in June to a "toss-up" as of August.
Democratic challenger Brian Poindexter, a city council member and ironworker, was added to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s "Red to Blue" program. On the Republican side, the $450,000 NRCC ad buy represents a significant investment over a three-week period.
The House Ethics Committee traditionally does not release findings within 60 days of an election. The upcoming midterm elections will determine if the Republican party maintains its narrow House majority. Miller has ignored a prior August 10 deadline set by some state Republicans to withdraw, confirming he will remain on the ballot.