Washington DC - President Donald Trump reportedly pulled some strings to help embattled Ohio Congressman Max Miller stay in his race for reelection.
According to Politico, members of Trump's political team made several calls to Ohio Republicans and party leaders last week, arguing that going after Miller would be moot, as he had no intention of dropping out.
They also argued that doing so would complicate party messaging, as those who call for Miller to drop out would later have to show support for him leading up to the midterms.
State Republicans even went as far as scheduling a meeting to discuss plans for replacing Miller, but reportedly nixed it in light of the calls.
"They basically told us to back off, and let the voters decide," one Ohio Republican involved in the calls told the outlet.
Miller has been facing heightened pressure to resign and drop his reelection bid after an investigation uncovered allegations of drug use, misogyny, verbal abuse, and violent behavior against multiple women, including his ex-wife.
The congressman has rejected the calls, denying most of the allegations and insisting on staying in the race. He defiantly missed the Sunday deadline for him to drop out and allow the party to choose his replacement.
The scandal is expected to follow Miller into the midterms as he faces off against Democrat Brian Poindexter.
While a few Republicans initially called for Miller to step down, President Trump has notably defended him, recently insisting that "so far, it's accusations."