House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) conceded in a recent interview that the political prospects for Rep. Max Miller (R-Ohio) are grim as the embattled lawmaker faces mounting calls to resign over allegations of domestic abuse made by his ex-wife, the daughter of Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio).
Speaking to Politico's Dasha Burns on her podcast "The Conversation," Johnson said he has not taken action against Miller because the claims remain just accusations. Burns pointed to President Trump's warning to Miller that "things aren't looking good for you," prompting Johnson to agree: "Well, I mean, they don't look good right now, of course."
Johnson elaborated on his role as Speaker, emphasizing his duty to address concerning behavior while respecting due process. "I call out alarming behavior. I try to work every day on decorum and on the ethics of the House," he said. He noted that the House Ethics Committee is actively engaged, adding, "They've done more work than they need to. I wish it wasn't necessary."
The Speaker acknowledged that Miller's public narrative—blaming a "nasty divorce proceeding" that has "gotten ugly"—matches what the Ohio Republican has told colleagues privately. "He denies all this, and he thinks it's a hit job on him," Johnson said.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Johnson said he would not tell Miller to drop out. "I will tell Max what I tell everyone: These are serious allegations. I'm the father of two daughters who work on Capitol Hill. I mean, the allegations are serious. I think Max is taking them seriously, I think our colleagues are, but again, we have to allow this process to play out. It's just begun."
Burns also reminded Johnson that Miller had previously criticized him, refusing to support his bid for GOP leader and accusing him of "dividing Republicans with a smile." Johnson brushed off the slight, saying, "Look, Max has had a lot of issues in his life. I don't return fire. That doesn't bother me. And there's a lot of criticism that comes with the job. I'm not going to use this situation to say something negative about him."
The pressure on Miller is intensifying from Senate Republicans, with Moreno publicly demanding his former son-in-law step down and suggesting he needs "serious psychological help." Moreno's call for resignation has been echoed by other GOP senators, although Senate Majority Leader John Thune has sidestepped the issue, calling it a House matter.
Miller has denied all allegations and insisted he will not withdraw from his reelection race, even as Trump warned him that his reelection is in peril. A source familiar with a call between Trump and Miller said the president suggested he should drop out, though Miller characterized the conversation as "supportive."
The House Ethics Committee announced Tuesday it would investigate Miller, shortly after he said he would request such a probe himself. Miller faces a Wednesday deadline to file for the ballot, and he has vowed to stay in the race. Miller's determination to remain a candidate comes as GOP anxiety grows over the potential fallout in Ohio's 7th Congressional District.
