Max Miller refuses to quit Ohio reelection race amid abuse allegations

Republican Rep. Max Miller will remain in the race for Ohio’s 7th Congressional District after the deadline to withdraw passed amid abuse allegations and calls from fellow Republicans for him to step aside.

Miller, who has denied allegations made by his ex-wife, Emily Moreno, had until Saturday evening to leave the race. His spokesperson confirmed to CNN on Sunday that he would remain a candidate.

The controversy could complicate Republican efforts to retain a seat previously considered safely Republican in the November midterm elections.

CNN previously reported that party officials had pushed Miller to withdraw over concerns the allegations could damage the GOP’s chances.

Allies of President Donald Trump had also urged Trump to encourage Miller to end his campaign.

Ohio Republican Sen. Bernie Moreno, Miller's former father-in-law, has said Miller “should not serve” in Congress and called him “a danger to my daughter.” Sen. Jon Husted has also urged Miller to withdraw and resign from Congress.

Miller told CNN last week that Trump had described his reelection campaign as “tough”, but he maintained that he would stay in the race and clear his name.

The controversy intensified after Miller released hundreds of private messages, photographs and videos that he said supported his defence.

His lawyer later acknowledged the files had inadvertently included sensitive family information.

Miller will face Democrat Brian Poindexter, an ironworker, in the November 3 election.