Ohio senator slammed over ‘weak and pathetic’ response to alleged abuse by ex-son-in-law congressman

Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno is weathering a firestorm of criticism this week following a public statement regarding his daughter, Emily Moreno, and her ongoing legal battle with her ex-husband, Representative Max Miller. The backlash centers on accusations of domestic abuse filed by Emily Moreno against the Republican congressman.

New Legal Allegations

The tension between the families has escalated following a new restraining order filed by Emily Moreno. In the documentation, she alleges that Miller, a fellow Republican, physically abused her and their young daughter. According to reports from the Washington Post, Emily Moreno claims that in June 2024, Miller poured scalding hot water on her. Furthermore, the filing alleges that Miller physically abused their then-2-year-old daughter, who sustained a broken collarbone.

In addition to the physical abuse allegations, the new restraining order asserts that Miller has repeatedly harassed and threatened her legal counsel. “Unless restrained, [Miller] will continue to harass, threaten, and communicate with my counsel directly,” Emily Moreno stated in her affidavit.

Political Fallout

Rep. Miller, who is facing reelection this November, has vehemently denied the claims. He has characterized the allegations as a product of “mental health issues” and accused Senator Moreno of enabling a “malicious campaign” against him. Back in May, Miller stated via X (formerly Twitter) that the senator “continues to fund and enable his daughter’s malicious campaign to ruin my life.”

For months, Senator Moreno remained largely silent as the situation unfolded. On Thursday, his office finally released a statement: “Senator Moreno’s top priority is the safety and well-being of his daughter and granddaughter. While he does not litigate these matters in the media or respond to baseless public attacks, he will do whatever it takes to ensure a just outcome for his family.”

Critics Demand Stronger Action

The response has done little to quell the outrage. Critics across the political spectrum are slamming the senator for his failure to call for the congressman’s resignation. Democratic podcast host Krystal Ball expressed shock at the senator’s posture, noting, “Won’t even side with his daughter over her abuser.”

On social media, the frustration is palpable. The account @HimesStan posted that any man “who cannot publicly defend his daughter from her abuser is a weak and pathetic man.” Others, such as strategist Ally Sammarco and "Pod Save America" co-host Tommy Vietor, have pointedly questioned why Senator Moreno has not demanded that Miller resign his post.