Senate Urges Rep. Max Miller’s Resignation Amid Allegations

Rep. Max Miller (R-Ohio) faces increasing pressure from Republican senators to resign following abuse allegations made by his ex-wife, Emily Moreno. Moreno is the daughter of Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio). The deadline for Miller to withdraw and allow local GOP leaders to select a new candidate is approaching, yet he insists on retaining his seat in Congress.

Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) and Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) both called for Miller’s resignation. Husted emphasized the importance of Miller stepping aside to focus on his family. Sheehy suggested Miller should seek help amidst a custody battle issue involving his daughter’s toy bunny. Miller denies the accusations, maintaining his candidacy.

President Trump warned Miller of the challenging electoral path, but has refrained from calling for his resignation. Recent polls show Miller trailing behind his Democratic opponent, Brian Poindexter. A right-leaning poll from Thursday indicates a 14-point deficit for Miller; a figure that has widened since last week’s 5-point gap.

The allegations and custody issues surfaced publicly after Bernie Moreno called for Miller’s resignation. Moreno criticized Miller’s character, urging his former son-in-law to seek professional help. Other Republican senators support Moreno, citing his credibility.

Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), and Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) also supported the call for Miller to resign. Despite these growing calls, sources suggest Miller may withdraw from the race by the week’s end.

Senate’s Focus Before Recess

Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer are negotiating a deal to fund the government until December. They also aim to confirm 74 Trump nominees before the August recess, amidst opposition from Trump supporters. Thune seeks votes to confirm Todd Blanche as Attorney General, but faces challenges.

Trump and Defense Secretary Relations

President Trump defended Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after reports of their disagreement over U.S. munitions stockpile shortages. Trump dismissed the reports as unfounded rumors, reaffirming his confidence in Hegseth. The Wall Street Journal stated that Trump is investigating the alleged ‘leakers’ behind the rumors.

Fauci Contempt Referral

Sen. Rand Paul plans to refer Dr. Anthony Fauci to the Department of Justice for contempt. The Senate Committee held Fauci in contempt, following his Fifth Amendment plea during a hearing on the COVID-19 pandemic. The DOJ has discretion over whether to prosecute, and Paul intends to expedite the referral process.

FCC Removes Ownership Cap

The Federal Communications Commission voted to eliminate the cap on household reach by a single broadcaster. The previous cap was set at 39 percent of the national audience. The FCC’s decision allows broadcasters to compete more effectively, potentially leading to industry consolidation.

Trump’s Legal Battle with BBC

A federal judge paused a deadline for Trump to provide his financial records to the BBC in a libel lawsuit. The case relates to BBC’s edited coverage of Trump’s speech before the January 6 Capitol riot. Trump questions the need for the documents, prompting a legal amendment.

Leprosy Rise in Florida

Leprosy cases in Florida are rising, with the state recording a notable increase this year. Health officials link the surge to contact with nine-banded armadillos, carriers of the disease. While rare, leprosy causes serious symptoms, and precautions are advised when handling soil where the animals roam.

The CDC advises avoiding contact with armadillos to reduce the risk of leprosy.