Embattled US Representative Max Miller Requests Ethics Probe Over Abuse Allegations

Republican Congressman Max Miller has formally requested a congressional ethics investigation into allegations of domestic abuse and misconduct made by his ex-wife, a move he says is aimed at clearing his name as political pressure mounts ahead of the November midterm elections.

The request prompted the U.S. House Ethics Committee to announce that it has opened a formal review into whether the Ohio lawmaker may have violated the congressional Code of Official Conduct. The committee said it is examining allegations that Miller engaged in domestic violence, child endangerment and illegal drug use, while stressing that the opening of an investigation does not imply guilt or establish that any violation has occurred.

Miller, who represents Ohio’s 7th Congressional District and is seeking re-election, has strongly denied all allegations. In a statement posted on social media, he said he had “absolutely nothing to hide” and pledged to provide investigators with all documents needed to conduct a thorough review. He maintained that the accusations against him are false and said an independent ethics investigation would allow the facts to be examined objectively.

The allegations were made by Miller’s ex-wife, Emily Moreno, who has accused the congressman of physically abusing her during their marriage and harming their young daughter. She alleges that Miller burned her with boiling water, assaulted her on multiple occasions and displayed violent behaviour toward their child. Miller has rejected the claims, insisting they are part of an ongoing custody dispute following the couple’s divorce.

The controversy has also divided leading Republicans in Ohio. Emily Moreno’s father, Senator Bernie Moreno, publicly condemned his former son-in-law, describing him as a danger to his daughter and granddaughter and arguing that he should not continue serving in Congress. His remarks marked a dramatic public break within one of Ohio’s prominent Republican political families.

The case has attracted national political attention because Miller is a former aide to President Donald Trump and has been one of Trump’s close allies in Congress. While Trump has described the situation as a family matter and stopped short of calling for Miller’s resignation, reports indicate he has privately expressed concern that the allegations could jeopardize the Republican Party’s chances of retaining what has traditionally been a safe congressional seat.

With Ohio’s deadline for replacing congressional candidates having passed, Miller has insisted he will remain on the ballot despite growing calls from some Republicans for him to withdraw. Political analysts say the scandal has transformed what was expected to be a comfortable Republican race into one Democrats believe they have a realistic chance of winning.

The House Ethics Committee has not indicated when its investigation will be completed. Observers note that ethics inquiries often take months and are unlikely to conclude before the November elections, meaning voters may head to the polls before any official findings are released. For now, the investigation adds another layer of uncertainty to an already closely watched congressional race that could have implications for control of the U.S. House of Representatives.