GIFFORDS, the gun violence prevention group founded by former Representative Gabby Giffords, has called on Representative Max Miller (R-Ohio) to step down following allegations from his ex-wife that he physically abused her during their marriage. The group, which typically focuses on firearms policy, made the unusual demand after a New York Times report detailed the accusations.
Miller, who is seeking reelection this November, has been embroiled in a heated legal dispute with his former spouse, Emily Moreno, the daughter of Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio). According to the Times, Moreno alleged Miller scalded her chest with hot water from a skillet, held a gun to her head, pushed her into a wall, and fractured their daughter's collarbone. Miller has denied all allegations.
GIFFORDS executive director Emma Brown issued a sharp statement: “Congress is no place for violent abusers who attack their family and hold a gun to their wife’s head. Max Miller needs to resign now — and if he refuses, the House should expel him.” Brown added that if Republicans shield Miller from accountability, it would give voters “another reason to take away their majority this November.”
The couple filed for divorce in August 2024 and have been locked in a custody battle over their young daughter. Miller countersued for defamation in May, alleging Moreno and her legal team at Cleveland-based Zashin Law coordinated with national outlets like the Daily Beast and TMZ to publicize false abuse claims.
The controversy comes amid broader scrutiny of how Congress handles sexual misconduct allegations. Both parties have seen members resign under pressure, including former Representatives Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) and Tony Gonzales (R-Texas), who left office earlier this year after facing bipartisan calls to exit. Meanwhile, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has faced questions about why Miller and Representative Cory Mills (R-Fla.), also accused of domestic violence, have not been pushed out. Johnson told reporters last week that “the key word there is allegation” and deferred to the House Ethics Committee process, noting it applies equally to both parties.
The case has intensified debate on Capitol Hill about potential reforms to address misconduct, with some lawmakers pushing for more aggressive action. GIFFORDS' involvement signals a widening coalition demanding accountability beyond typical gun safety issues.
