Republican Rep. Max Miller Remains on Ohio Ballot Amid Party Pressure

Republican Rep. Max Miller has decided to continue his campaign for Ohio's 7th Congressional District, despite recent appeals from party officials for him to step aside following domestic-abuse allegations made by his ex-wife. The decision comes as the deadline passed for Ohio Republicans to replace a candidate on the November ballot, positioning Miller in what analysts describe as a potentially competitive race.

The district, which leans Republican under the current map, was won by President Donald Trump in 2022 and by Miller in 2020 with 51% of the vote in a three-way contest. Miller, 37, told supporters he remains confident of victory, citing the district’s partisan tilt and his record of constituent service.

Both Ohio senators, including Miller’s former father-in-law Sen. Bernie Moreno, urged him to withdraw, but President Trump described Miller as “a good person” and said the family dispute should be resolved privately. In a recent interview, Miller said Trump warned that staying in the race would make it “tough.”

Republican National Committee Chairman Joe Gruters said the party would support its nominees but stopped short of confirming financial backing for Miller’s campaign. Miller indicated he is prepared to increase his personal spending, noting he has already contributed $1 million of his own money.

Democratic challenger Brian Poindexter, a Brook Park city councilman, has highlighted his union endorsements and pledged to “serve with honor.” He criticized Miller’s decision to keep the personal dispute in the public eye, stating his campaign is focused on “working people across this district.”

Democratic groups, including the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, are weighing whether to prioritize the race in their midterm spending plans as the contest draws increased national attention.