MEDINA, OHIO (VINnews) — Democratic U.S. House candidate Brian Poindexter accused Republican Rep. Max Miller of prioritizing benefits for Israeli soldiers over support for the U.S. military during a recent town hall.

Poindexter, a union ironworker and Brook Park city council member challenging Miller in Ohio’s 7th Congressional District, criticized the incumbent while discussing the Pentagon budget.

“He’s fighting for Israeli soldiers to get the benefits that our military members get,” Poindexter said of Miller, according to video of the event released by C-SPAN.

The remarks referred to legislation Miller co-sponsored in 2024 with Rep. Guy Reschenthaler, R-Pa. The bill, H.R. 8445, sought to amend Title 38 of the U.S. Code and the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to extend certain employment and civil protections — including job reinstatement rights under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act and foreclosure and interest rate protections under the SCRA — to U.S. citizens serving in the Israel Defense Forces.

Supporters of the measure said it would assist more than 20,000 American citizens who have chosen to serve in the IDF. The bill did not advance in the previous Congress.

Poindexter framed the effort as evidence that Miller does not prioritize the needs of American service members amid debates over the size of the Pentagon budget. C-SPAN footage showed Poindexter addressing a small audience in a wood-paneled room as he made the comments.

Miller, a former Trump administration aide serving his second term, has been a consistent supporter of Israel. He has received significant backing from pro-Israel groups, including AIPAC-affiliated donors. His office did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Poindexter’s remarks.

The 7th District, which includes parts of Cuyahoga, Medina, Wayne and Holmes counties, has leaned Republican in recent cycles. Miller won reelection in 2024. The race has drawn increased attention this year amid personal allegations against the incumbent, which he has denied, and polls showing a competitive contest.

Poindexter has centered his campaign on working-class issues, labor rights and criticism of Miller’s voting record on economic and foreign policy matters. The general election is scheduled for November.