President Donald Trump contacted Representative Max Miller on Monday to express concerns regarding Miller's candidacy amid allegations of assault involving his ex-wife and child, according to three sources familiar with the conversation. During the call, Trump reportedly stated that 'things aren't looking good' and indicated that Miller's reelection would be challenging. Miller, who denies the allegations, informed Trump that he intends to remain in the race. He also mentioned that his own polling indicates he is in a strong position.
The tone of the private conversation differed from Trump's public comments, where he has not criticized Miller or urged him to withdraw from the race. Miller, a former aide to Trump, married Emily Moreno in 2022 at Trump's golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey, and was elected to Ohio's 7th congressional district later that year with Trump's endorsement. He is currently facing a competitive reelection campaign. Earlier on the same day, Trump referred to the situation as 'a very sad thing,' stating, 'I know Max, he's a good person,' and emphasized that he would allow the families involved to resolve the matter. Both a White House spokesperson and a spokesperson for Miller declined to provide comments.