Full Breakdown
Max Miller Remains on Ohio Ballot Amid Domestic-Abuse Allegations and Party Turmoil
8/12/2026, 1:05:20 AM
Core Event: Deadline Passes, Miller Stays in Race
The Ohio Secretary of State confirmed that the Monday deadline for local party chairs to replace a candidate passed without a withdrawal, leaving Rep. Max Miller on the ballot for the 7th Congressional District. Miller, a two-term Republican incumbent, announced he will continue his campaign despite calls from several GOP officials for him to step aside.
Background & Context
Miller’s tenure has been shadowed by allegations from his ex-wife, Emily Moreno, who accuses him of throwing hot water, pointing a gun at her head, and causing a broken collarbone to their daughter. The accusations also include claims of abuse toward three other women. No criminal charges have been filed, and the Ohio Department of Children and Family Services found no substantiating evidence of child abuse. Miller is under investigation by the House Ethics Committee for the domestic-violence claims and alleged illegal drug use.
Data & Statistics
- A recent Aco/Efficient poll shows Democratic challenger Brian Poindexter leading Miller by 14 points, up from a 5-point margin in an earlier survey.
- The nonpartisan Cook Political Report shifted the race from “Likely Republican” to “Toss Up.”
Official Statements & Responses
- RNC chair Joe Gruters said the party will “support our nominees,” though a later RNC official clarified that no resources have been pledged specifically to Miller’s campaign.
- Ohio Governor Mike DeWine stated that “the voters of his district will have to decide.”
- Senate Republicans Bernie Moreno and Jon Husted have publicly called for Miller’s resignation.
Verbatim Quote
- “Congressman Miller has represented Ohio’s 7th District for two successful terms, and he will fight for the opportunity to continue representing them in the next Congress,” — Abigail Angelos, Miller spokeswoman
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Police reports obtained by ABC News detail multiple incidents of alleged physical violence and an injury to Miller’s daughter while in his care. Miller denies all abuse, and no criminal charges have been filed. The Department of Children and Family Services’ records indicate no substantiated child-abuse findings, leaving the allegations unresolved pending the Ethics Committee’s investigation.
What’s Next
The November 2024 general election will determine whether Miller retains his seat or if Poindexter captures the district in a race now classified as a toss-up by multiple election trackers. No further scheduled debates or party-funded events have been announced.
