GOP Sen. Jim Banks calls for Rep. Max Miller's resignation

Republican Sen. Jim Banks of Indiana said Sunday that GOP Rep. Max Miller of Ohio should step down and drop his re-election bid if allegations that he abused his former girlfriend are proven true.

Banks, the incoming chairman of the House Republican Study Committee, made the remarks on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” becoming one of the highest-ranking Republicans to publicly address the escalating scandal. Miller, who is running to replace outgoing Sen. Rob Portman, denies the allegations, which surfaced in a report by the New York Times. The accusations involve Miller’s relationship with his former communications director, Lauren Blair Vijayvergiya, who filed a police report in 2020 alleging physical abuse. The case was later dismissed after she declined to press charges. The Times also reported text messages in which Miller admitted to pushing her during an argument.

The controversy has divided Ohio Republicans ahead of a competitive Senate race and threatens to overshadow GOP efforts to regain control of Capitol Hill. Miller has refused to withdraw from the primary, where he faces a crowded field including state Sen. Matt Dolan and former state Treasurer Josh Mandel. Banks’ comments signal potential unease within the party but fall short of an outright demand for Miller’s resignation. Other Republicans have stayed silent, reflecting the party’s reluctance to weigh in on intra-GOP disputes, especially when they involve personal conduct.

If more evidence emerges linking Miller to misconduct, pressure could grow for him to leave the race. A criminal case is unlikely after the 2020 dismissal, but fresh allegations or a civil suit could change the political calculus. The outcome may influence how House Republicans handle ethics matters in the coming Congress, where they plan to push an aggressive agenda. For now, Miller remains on the ballot, and Ohio voters will decide his political future in May. The episode underscores how personal scandals can upend campaigns even when legal outcomes are inconclusive.