U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno expressed intense concern over his former son-in-law, Representative Max Miller, suggesting he should not hold office in the U.S. House and needs professional psychological help. In a detailed post, Moreno criticized Miller’s character, stating, “If there are any basic standards of character required to hold elected office, Max Miller fails them.” Moreno argued that Miller poses a danger to his daughter, Emily, and grandson due to unresolved psychological issues.
Despite these allegations, Miller remains firm in his decision to continue his reelection campaign. He faces a significant deadline on Wednesday, while Democrats see the situation as a potential advantage in Ohio’s northeastern congressional district. Miller adamantly refuted accusations of abuse toward both his former wife and daughter in a recent video statement. “I’m not dropping out of this race and I’ll win in November,” he remarked confidently.
The custody dispute surrounding Miller and Emily Moreno has escalated, drawing more attention and scrutiny. Accusations about domestic abuse and a troubling custody situation have been public for years but have intensified recently. Emily Moreno accused Miller of physical assault, including burning, hitting, and threats during their marriage. In his video, Miller denied these alligations and claimed his innocence, even when addressing a mysterious collarbone injury suffered by their child. The injury is central to the dispute, with differing accounts of its cause presented in court and police reports, disclosed earlier by Mother Jones magazine. Miller released numerous investigative and legal documents related to the case.
Stefan Mychajliw, a spokesperson for Emily Moreno, described Miller’s video as “shameful,” stating it was manipulative to use the shared daughter for political gain. “Miller can lie and spin on X, but he cannot do so under oath in a court of law. We are confident that justice will prevail in court,” Mychajliw asserted.
Senator Moreno had refrained from publicly discussing the ongoing allegations for months. Reagan McCarthy, his spokeswoman, emphasized that Moreno’s primary concern is the safety of both his daughter and granddaughter.
The senator’s comments have led to tension within Ohio’s political circles, particularly challenging Trump-endorsed Republican candidates. Although the White House opted not to comment on Sunday, Democratic opponent Brian Poindexter stated that anyone facing such accusations should not remain in power.
Names of potential GOP contenders are emerging should Miller withdraw his candidacy, including State Representative Mike Dovilla and former State Senator Kevin Coughlin. These discussions remain confidential among Ohio Republicans.
Democratic figures have intensified calls for Miller’s resignation, urging a congressional ethics inquiry. Additionally, they anticipate redirecting support toward Brian Poindexter, Miller’s Democratic opponent in the upcoming election.