House speaker dismisses concern about restraining order against Rep. Cory Mills

October 15, 2025

A judge in Florida has granted a protective order against Republican Representative Cory Mills, barring him from contacting his ex-girlfriend Lindsey Langston, who accused him of harassment and threats after their relationship ended. The judge determined that Langston had reasonable cause to fear becoming a victim of dating violence, noting she experienced substantial emotional distress requiring medication and therapy. House Speaker Mike Johnson dismissed questions about the allegations, stating he didn't know the details and suggesting there were more "serious" matters to discuss.

Who is affected

Lindsey Langston, a Republican state committeewoman in Florida and Miss United States
Rep. Cory Mills (R-FL)
Women experiencing domestic violence (as referenced by Democratic leaders)
U.S. House of Representatives members and leadership
American women (as mentioned by House Minority Whip Katherine Clark)

What action is being taken

Judge Fred Koberlein Jr. has granted a protective order against dating violence, effective through January 1
The protective order bars Mills from contacting Langston or coming within 500 feet of her home
Langston's lawyer Bobi J. Frank is advocating for Mills to be disciplined and sanctioned by Congress
House Democratic leadership is criticizing Republican leadership's response to the allegations

Why it matters

The incident involves a sitting U.S. Congressman who is already under a House Ethics investigation for other matters
The allegations are emerging during Domestic Violence Awareness Month (October)
House leadership's dismissal of the allegations raises concerns about how seriously domestic violence is taken by elected officials
The case highlights the intersection of personal conduct and professional responsibilities for elected officials
Democratic leaders are connecting this issue to broader concerns about women's healthcare and protections

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The 19th