Full Breakdown
Speaker Mike Johnson Defends Rep. Max Miller as House Ethics Probe Continues
9/1/2026, 10:07:17 PM
Core Event
House Speaker Mike Johnson publicly affirmed his support for Rep. Max Miller (R-Ohio) when asked whether he would endorse the congressman’s 2024 reelection bid. Johnson answered “yes,” describing Miller as “a great member of Congress” while noting that the House Ethics Committee is investigating allegations of domestic abuse made by Miller’s ex-wife, Emily Moreno.
Allegations and Ethics Investigation
Emily Moreno filed court documents alleging that Miller held a gun to her head, beat her, poured hot water on her, and fractured their 2-year-old daughter’s collarbone. The House Ethics Committee opened an investigation earlier this month to determine whether the accusations warrant disciplinary action. Miller has denied wrongdoing and announced he will submit documents to the committee in an effort to clear his name.
Official Statements & Responses
Speaker Johnson emphasized the need for “due process” and said the matter is for the ethics committee to resolve. He reiterated that the House does not take disciplinary action based solely on allegations. Johnson also expressed confidence that Miller can defeat Democratic challenger Brian Poindexter in the November election and that the district will remain under Republican control.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If there are any basic standards of character required to hold elected office, Max Miller fails them,” — Emily Moreno
- “What kind of person would treat their daughter this way?” — Sen. Tim Sheehy
- “I’m confident we’ll hold that district,” — House Speaker Mike Johnson
- “There’s all sorts of domestic events going on with 435 members of Congress all the time; it’s not my business to get engaged in it,” — House Speaker Mike Johnson
