House Democrats discuss potential expulsion of Rep. Max Miller
House Democrats are privately considering whether to force a vote to expel Rep. Max Miller over domestic abuse allegations, which he denies. Discussions come as Miller refuses to drop his re-election bid and faces criticism from both parties.
House Democrats are privately discussing whether to force a vote to expel Rep. Max Miller from Congress following domestic abuse allegations. The Ohio Republican denies the claims.
Miller said in a social media video Sunday that he will not withdraw his bid for re-election. He denied accusations that he abused his ex-wife, Emily Moreno, and their young daughter.
His ex-father-in-law, Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), responded sharply on social media. Moreno stated that Miller is a danger to his daughter and fails the basic standards of character required for elected office.
Several Democratic lawmakers have called for Miller to step down. Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) said members of Congress must be held to a higher standard, while Rep. Sarah McBride (D-Del.) said he should resign as others have done.
One House Democrat, speaking anonymously, said there will be conversations this week about whether to take action. "People are pissed," the lawmaker said. A second Democrat told Axios they feel confident there will be action on the matter.
However, a Democratic leadership source suggested the party’s priority is defeating Miller in November rather than expelling him now. Some lawmakers also noted due process concerns and the difficulty of organizing action while the House is in recess.
Expulsion is rare in the House, but the threat has prompted recent resignations. Former Reps. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), Tony Gonzales (R-Texas), and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Fla.) all resigned this year to avoid expulsion votes amid various misconduct allegations.
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) deferred to the House Ethics Committee regarding the allegations. President Trump also commented on the matter, describing the situation as sad but calling Miller a "good person."
Go Deeper
What are the specific allegations against Miller?
Miller is accused of domestic abuse by his ex-wife, Emily Moreno, involving her and their young daughter. He has publicly denied these allegations in a video posted to social media.
How does the House expulsion process work?
The Constitution allows the House to expel a member with a two-thirds vote. It is a severe punishment that has been used very rarely in American history.
Why are other lawmakers resigning instead of facing expulsion?
Three representatives resigned this year to avoid facing expulsion votes. These included Eric Swalwell, Tony Gonzales, and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, all of whom faced misconduct allegations.
What has Republican leadership said about the allegations?
Speaker Mike Johnson said the House Ethics Committee handles such investigations and the process must play out. He declined to comment further while the investigation is ongoing.
What is President Trump's stance on Miller?
Trump called the situation "very sad" but said he knows Miller and considers him a "good person." He said he would let the families involved figure it out.
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