Republican Rep. Max Miller, 37, embroiled in domestic violence allegations, has been defended by President Donald Trump as a "good person" and approved for his re-election bid. This has sent shockwaves through U.S. politics, occurring amid calls from his former father-in-law, Republican Senator Bernie Moreno, to step down.
On August 3, 2026 (local time), President Trump responded to questions about Rep. Miller during a press conference at the White House, saying "He's a good person and I've always thought he's a very good person," actively shielding him. Rep. Miller is facing allegations of committing shocking violence against his ex-wife Emily Moreno, including pouring hot water on her and pointing a gun at her. These allegations were publicly raised by none other than Emily's father, Republican Senator Bernie Moreno, who strongly urged Miller to resign.
Senator Moreno referenced the horrific abuse his daughter endured and pointed out the ethical problems and unfitness of his "former son-in-law representative," waging an unprecedented "family politics" expose in U.S. politics. However, President Trump made clear that he would not take issue with Rep. Miller's re-election bid in the November midterm elections despite such criticism. President Trump said "I'll let the family resolve the (domestic violence) issue," essentially refusing to intervene and taking a stance supporting Miller's political future.
Rep. Miller is strongly denying all domestic violence allegations against him. His district, Ohio's 7th Congressional District, is classified as a traditionally Republican-leaning area, and President Trump's support is expected to have a decisive impact on Miller's path to re-election. Within the Republican Party, the prevailing interpretation is that President Trump's political calculation of prioritizing party unity ahead of the November midterm elections is behind these remarks of support.