Ohio Congressman Requests Ethics Review Amid Allegations
Ohio Republican Congressman Max Miller has taken the rare step of asking for a formal investigation by the House Ethics Committee into himself, as serious allegations of domestic violence and illegal drug use swirl around him, potentially jeopardizing his political career.
In a statement on social media, Miller expressed his intention to submit paperwork to the bipartisan committee in order to clear his name from what he referred to as “horrific attacks.” He insists he has nothing to hide and plans to provide the necessary documentation to congressional investigators.
“In light of all the renewed interest in my family affairs I am going to file my own paperwork for an ethics investigation into myself to clear my name from these horrific attacks on myself and family. I have absolutely nothing to hide,” he stated.
Shortly after his announcement, the House Ethics Committee confirmed that they are reviewing allegations suggesting Miller may have been involved in domestic abuse or illegal drug use in violation of congressional standards. However, they emphasized that initiating an inquiry doesn’t automatically imply that any misconduct has occurred.
This inquiry coincides with an increasingly contentious legal dispute between Miller and his ex-wife, Emily Moreno, who filed for divorce in 2024 after just two years. Court documents from Moreno allege that Miller committed serious physical abuse, including shoving her against walls, throwing hot water on her, and brandishing a firearm at her. She also claimed that Miller’s actions led to a fractured collarbone for their two-year-old daughter.
Miller has categorically rejected all abuse claims, insisting the water incident was simply harmless spray from a kitchen hose. He accuses his ex-wife of launching a coordinated smear campaign against him.
The situation has created a rift within the Republican Party, particularly since Emily Moreno is the daughter of Ohio Republican Senator Bernie Moreno. The senator criticized Miller, calling him a threat to his family and urging him to resign from Congress.
Things became even more complicated when Miller released a large volume of legal documents, text messages, and audio recordings to prove his innocence. This release accidentally included an unredacted sensitive photo of his daughter, prompting Moreno’s legal team to seek a contempt citation in court. Miller’s attorney later took full responsibility for the oversight, labeling it an unintentional mistake.
The ongoing ethics review puts additional political pressure on Miller as he vies for a third term representing Ohio’s 7th Congressional District in the approaching midterm elections. Normally, House Ethics Committee procedures limit significant investigative actions within 60 days before an election, but this formal review casts a shadow over Miller’s campaign against Democratic challenger Brian Poindexter.
Despite mounting pressure from party peers to withdraw, Miller remains committed to his candidacy.
