House Ethics Committee Investigates Rep. Max Miller

The House Ethics Committee announced on Tuesday an investigation into allegations of domestic abuse against Republican Representative Max Miller. The Ohio congressman faces pressure from both President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno, his former father-in-law. Miller, an advisor during Trump’s first presidency, must decide by Wednesday whether to continue his reelection campaign. Republicans fear the controversy could endanger their efforts to maintain a House majority during the midterm elections.

The ethics committee leaders stated they are examining whether Miller participated in domestic violence, abuse, or illegal drug use. Earlier, Miller claimed he asked for his own investigation into accusations by his ex-wife, Emily Moreno. It’s unclear if his request initiated the committee’s review.

Trump advised Miller on Monday that his candidacy “doesn’t look good,” according to a source familiar with their discussion. Axios first reported this conversation.

House Ethics correspondent Sagar Meghani reported the committee’s investigation on domestic abuse charges against Miller. During a CNN interview on Tuesday, Miller asserted his decision to remain in the race, despite Trump’s cautioning words. He quoted Trump saying, “It’s going to be a tough race,” but committed to staying in the race for his family.

The former Trump aide, endorsed in May, is contending with legal actions from his ex-wife, Senator Moreno’s daughter, and an ex-girlfriend. Until recently, Sen. Moreno stayed silent about the allegations for his daughter’s sake but later expressed the situation’s toll on his family as harrowing. He emphasized the need for public officials to meet basic standards, suggesting Miller fails to do so, and showed concern for his granddaughter during their recent visit to a Cleveland police station for a custody exchange.

Miller previewed his intention to stay in the race via a weekend livestream on X, defending himself with divorce and custody-related documents. Reacting to this video, Sen. Moreno broke his silence, urging Miller to step down. President Trump refrained from publicly advising Miller to exit the race, acknowledging the accusations as “allegations” and expressing his positive personal knowledge of Miller.