Allegations of domestic abuse and workplace harassment involving several Republican House members are threatening to distract from the party’s campaign message ahead of the midterm elections. The cases could force Republicans to spend money and attention defending seats they expected to retain, potentially giving Democrats additional opportunities in a closely divided House.

Ohio Representative Max Miller faces domestic-abuse allegations from his former wife, which he denies, while North Carolina Representative Chuck Edwards has been accused of sexually harassing female aides. Florida Representative Cory Mills is also under ethics scrutiny over allegations including domestic abuse, which he denies; the cases have raised concerns about candidate viability and the party’s electoral prospects.