U.S. Sen. Bernie Moreno expressed criticism toward his former son-in-law, U.S. Rep. Max Miller, saying he should not hold a position in the House and should “seek professional help.” This statement was made as Miller defended himself in a live video on social media against claims of domestic abuse on Sunday.
Moreno, who remained mostly reserved during the contentious custody battle between Miller and his daughter Emily, stated, “If there are any basic standards of character required to hold elected office, Max Miller fails them. He should not serve in the House of Representatives.” Moreno highlighted that Miller “needs serious psychological help” and described him as a danger to Emily, expressing concern for the safety of his granddaughter.
Miller declared his intent to continue his campaign for reelection despite a Wednesday deadline for replacement. This comes as Democrats see a possibility in gaining the northeast Ohio congressional seat while Miller faces pressure over domestic abuse allegations amid his difficult custody fight with Emily Moreno, whom he divorced last year.
“I’m not dropping out of this race and I’ll win in November,” commented Miller, dismissing claims of misconduct involving his former wife and daughter.
The accusations against Miller, endorsed by former President Donald Trump and once a White House adviser, have been public for years. Both parties have engaged in an intensified exchange as cases have arisen, with Emily Moreno alleging incidents of scalding, hitting, and threats during their marriage. Miller continues to deny these allegations.
Miller also disputed involvement in an incident resulting in a broken collarbone for their two-year-old daughter, prompting Emily to reach out to authorities. Each has suggested different explanations for the injury, documented in court records and further detailed in a Mother Jones article. Miller supported his defense by releasing a collection of investigative and court records related to the custody conflict.
Stefan Mychajliw, speaking for Emily Moreno, labeled Miller’s video “shameful.” Mychajliw criticized, “No loving parent would have ever used their daughter as a PR pawn to save their own political career. Miller can lie and spin on social media, but he cannot do so under oath in a court of law.” He expressed confidence in the judicial process.
Sen. Moreno refrained from commenting on the specific accusations until recently, prioritizing the safety of his daughter and granddaughter, according to spokeswoman Reagan McCarthy. The senator’s statement has stirred internal discussions in his state, traditionally favoring Trump-endorsed candidates like Miller.
The White House did not comment on the situation. Meanwhile, Miller’s Democratic challenger, Brian Poindexter, argued against individuals facing such accusations occupying positions of power.
Among potential GOP candidates considering Miller’s seat include State Rep. Mike Dovilla, a U.S. Navy veteran, and Kevin Coughlin, a former state legislator. Both are viewed as possible replacements should Miller exit the race.
Democrats are calling for Miller’s resignation and advocating for a congressional ethics review while potentially channeling support toward Brian Poindexter, a union ironworker, in the upcoming election.
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