Ohio Republican Representative Max Miller has denied allegations that he abused his former wife and their young daughter, and said he will remain in his re-election campaign despite calls for him to resign. The dispute has intensified scrutiny of a congressional seat that Democrats hope to win, while exposing a public split among prominent Ohio Republicans.

Miller said the allegations originated with his ex-wife, Emily Moreno, and rejected claims that he threatened or physically harmed her or their child. Moreno has made the accusations in court filings connected to their divorce and custody dispute; Miller has denied them and sued her for defamation. Senator Bernie Moreno, Emily Moreno’s father, said Miller should not serve in the House and should seek professional help, while an upcoming deadline could affect Republicans’ ability to replace Miller on the ballot.