Republican Representatives Matt Gaetz of Florida and Max Miller of Ohio engaged in a heated exchange on social media, each accusing the other of mistreating women. The feud erupted after Miller made derogatory remarks about Gaetz in a CNN article.
Miller’s Insult
In the CNN article, Miller implied that Gaetz sought chaos and had unresolved familial issues. Miller’s comment stemmed from Gaetz’s involvement in persuading former President Donald Trump to endorse a congressman facing a primary challenge initiated by Gaetz.
Gaetz’s Response
In response, Gaetz resurfaced allegations against Miller, suggesting that Miller physically abused former White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham during their past relationship. These accusations against Miller emerged in 2021 while he was running for Congress. Despite vehemently denying the allegations, Miller faced a defamation lawsuit from Grisham, which he dropped in August 2023.
Gaetz’s Allegations
Meanwhile, Gaetz himself has been the subject of investigations regarding allegations of child sex trafficking, specifically involving a 17-year-old girl whom he purportedly transported across state lines. Although the Department of Justice dropped its investigation, the House Ethics Committee continued to examine the matter, prompting criticism from former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
Escalating Tensions
The social media exchange between Gaetz and Miller intensified, with Miller sharing a link to news about the ongoing House Ethics probe. Gaetz retaliated by questioning Miller’s temperament, insinuating a connection between Miller’s anger issues and his alleged mistreatment of women.
Long-standing Disdain
Gaetz and Miller, both aligned with former President Trump, have a history of public animosity, largely stemming from their differences regarding McCarthy. Miller, a McCarthy ally, criticized Gaetz’s opposition to McCarthy’s speakership bid in January 2023. As tensions persisted and McCarthy was eventually ousted, Miller’s frustration with Gaetz intensified, culminating in a suggestion that Gaetz face an expulsion vote.
The feud between Gaetz and Miller underscores internal divisions within the Republican Party and highlights the complexities surrounding allegations of mistreatment and misconduct.
