Representative Max Miller, an Ohio Republican, revealed Tuesday that he plans to initiate a House ethics investigation into his own conduct. This unprecedented step comes as Miller faces significant pressure over allegations of domestic violence made by his former wife, Emily Moreno, the daughter of sitting Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno. Miller stated his intention is to use the formal probe to clear his name and provide full transparency regarding the accusations.
"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." — Rep. Max Miller (R-OH), U.S. House of Representatives
The allegations against Miller first gained widespread attention three months ago, following a May 7 report by the Daily Mail. That report detailed claims from Emily Moreno, who alleged multiple violent episodes with Miller, her then-husband. The Daily Mail published images purporting to show bruising Moreno sustained during these alleged incidents.
According to Moreno's account, one of the most recent alleged assaults occurred on February 1 during a handoff of the couple’s 2-year-old daughter at Miller’s residence. Law enforcement records appear to corroborate parts of her story, with The Daily Beast reporting that Bay Village police confirmed officers were dispatched to Miller’s home on that specific date. Beyond this incident, Moreno also claims an earlier alleged event from June 2024, where Miller reportedly hurled a pot of boiling water at her during a confrontation. Hours after this incident, Miller allegedly wrote an apology letter to his wife, expressing remorse without explicitly acknowledging any abuse. The letter read, "I don’t know what to do. I do know you love me, protect me, and care for me. I failed to do that for you. I’m sorry and I just want to close my eyes and wake up and everything be normal." The message continued, growing more emotional and referencing their daughter: "I know that won’t happen. I’m sorry I failed you and Ruth. It’s eating me alive. I love you, even if you think I don’t. I love you so much. I’m so sorry. I’m just a f*** up and worthless."
Representative Miller has consistently and publicly denied all allegations against him since they first emerged. Following the Daily Mail’s initial report, he posted an extensive thread on X, systematically disputing each claim. His decision to request a self-initiated ethics investigation is framed by his camp as a direct response to these persistent allegations, offering a formal avenue for vindication. In his statement announcing the move, Miller wrote, “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.” He further emphasized his commitment to full cooperation, stating, “I have absolutely nothing to hide. We will be providing the committee all necessary documents needed for a detail examination. The accusations continue to change, but my facts stay the same. I am looking forward to my colleagues reading everything for themselves.”
The controversy has also drawn the attention of the White House. Axios reported that President Donald Trump contacted Miller on August 3 to discuss his reelection prospects in light of the unfolding scandal. During their conversation, President Trump reportedly conveyed his concerns about Miller's political viability. "On the call, the president told Miller that ‘things aren’t looking good’ and repeatedly said his reelection would be tough,” Axios detailed. Despite President Trump's reported skepticism, Miller reportedly assured the President that he intends to remain in the race, pointing to internal campaign polling data as evidence of continued voter support. Prior to this call, President Trump had addressed reporters publicly about the situation, choosing his words carefully. “I know Max, he’s a good person, I mean I always thought he was a very good person,” President Trump remarked, refraining from rendering judgment on the specific allegations and indicating that he viewed the matter as a private family affair. “And I’m going to let the families figure that out,” he added.
A self-initiated ethics review would compel Miller to submit his personal records and communications for formal examination by House investigators. As of now, no specific date has been set for when the House ethics committee will officially act on Miller’s request or begin its review of the documentation his team plans to provide. As Representative Miller prepares for his 2026 reelection campaign, he navigates not only a pending scandal but also a self-imposed investigation, with the public doubts voiced by President Trump adding a complex layer of uncertainty to his political path forward.
