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Bernie Moreno slammed over 'weak' response to Max Miller abuse allegations from daughter
An Ohio senator is facing backlash over what critics say was a “weak and pathetic” statement after his daughter filed a new restraining order against her ex-husband -- an Ohio congressman she accused of domestic abuse against her and their young daughter.
The daughter of Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, Emily Moreno, claimed Rep. Max Miller, R-Ohio, poured scalding hot water on her from a pan on the day she planned on leaving Miller in June 2024, according to the Washington Post.
She also accused Miller of physically abusing their then-2-year-old daughter, who suffered a broken collarbone, the Post reported.
Miller, who is up for reelection in November, claimed Bernie Moreno is backing his daughter’s “antics” and blamed Emily Moreno’s accusations on “mental health issues.”
In May, Miller claimed Bernie Moreno “continues to fund and enable his daughter’s malicious campaign to ruin my life despite his knowledge of her mental health issues.”
In her new restraining order, Emily Moreno claimed her ex-husband has “harassed, threatened and directly communicated” with her attorney, including putting his hands on her lawyer.
“Unless restrained, [Miller] will continue to harass, threaten, and communicate with my counsel directly,” Emily Moreno wrote in a signed affidavit.
As the dispute played out over months, Bernie Moreno was silent.
On Thursday, the senator’s office issued a statement that critics slammed for not calling for Miller’s resignation. Both Bernie Moreno and Miller are allies of President Donald Trump.
“Senator Moreno’s top priority is the safety and well-being of his daughter and granddaughter,” the statement read. “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.”
The statement was insufficient, critics said.
“Won’t even side with his daughter over her abuser,” posted Democratic podcast host Krystal Ball. “Unreal.”
“Any man who cannot publicly defend his daughter from her abuser is a weak and pathetic man,” posted the account @HimesStan on X.
“Does @berniemoreno think Max Miller should be making laws on behalf of women and children everywhere?" added Democratic strategist Ally Sammarco.