Rep. Tony Gonzales Faces House Ethics Probe After Affair Admission

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Committee Launches Formal Inquiry (Image Credits: Media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com)

Washington – The House Ethics Committee opened an investigation into Texas Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales on Wednesday over allegations of sexual misconduct with a former staffer.[1][2]

Committee Launches Formal Inquiry

The bipartisan panel established a special investigative subcommittee to examine claims that Gonzales engaged in sexual misconduct toward an individual in his congressional office. Committee members also will review accusations of unfair discrimination through special favors or privileges. Such probes often unfold over months in secrecy, with outcomes ranging from dismissals to reprimands.[1]

Gonzales responded swiftly to the announcement. He welcomed the chance to present facts to investigators, stating he appreciated the opportunity to provide details on the situation.[2] House rules explicitly bar members from sexual relationships or unwelcome advances with staffers.

Gonzales Confirms Relationship with Staffer

The congressman appeared on a conservative radio show Wednesday and acknowledged a past affair with Regina Santos-Aviles, a former aide who worked in his Uvalde district office. He described the relationship as a serious lapse in judgment and a mistake for which he took full responsibility.[2]

“Since then, I have reconciled with my wife, Angel. I’ve asked God to forgive me, which he has,” Gonzales said. “And my faith is as strong as ever.”[2] Text messages published by outlets like the San Antonio Express-News showed exchanges where Gonzales requested explicit photos from Santos-Aviles, despite her objections that the comments went too far. He denied giving her preferential treatment, such as pay raises or bonuses, insisting those followed standard staff practices.

Tragic Circumstances of Staffer’s Death

Santos-Aviles died by suicide in September 2025 after setting herself on fire outside her Uvalde home. An autopsy revealed she had a blood alcohol level of 0.094%, above the legal limit for intoxication.[3] Gonzales maintained he had no role in her death and last spoke with her over a year earlier, in June 2024.

Her widower shared screenshots of the messages and accused Gonzales of contributing to her distress. The representative countered that reports from police indicated personal issues in her marriage played a factor.

Primary Election Adds Pressure

The developments coincided with Texas’ March 4 Republican primary for the 23rd Congressional District, stretching from San Antonio to El Paso. Gonzales advanced to a May 26 runoff against challenger Brandon Herrera, a YouTube gun rights influencer, after neither secured a majority.[4]

1. Early voting: Gonzales led with 45% to Herrera’s 40%.
2. Election day: Herrera surged to 49%, with Gonzales at 36%, amid fresh scandal reports.
3. Previous 2024 runoff: Gonzales edged Herrera by hundreds of votes.

Gonzales, a three-term incumbent endorsed by President Donald Trump and Speaker Mike Johnson, vowed to prevail. He faces a March 18 deadline to withdraw from the runoff.[2]

GOP Leadership Watches Closely

Speaker Johnson urged Gonzales to address the public directly while emphasizing due process. “I’ve encouraged him to address it publicly, the voters have spoken,” Johnson said.[5] The National Republican Congressional Committee has not committed to runoff support.

Gonzales accused opponents, including Herrera and the staffer’s widower, of blackmail attempts and politicizing the tragedy for gain. He refused calls to resign, arguing his seat remains crucial for Republican priorities.

As the ethics review and runoff unfold, Gonzales’ political future hangs in balance. The scandal has tested his resilience in a district vital to GOP control of the House. What impact will this have on Texas voters? Share your thoughts in the comments.