Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas admitted for the first time on Wednesday that he had an affair with a former staffer, Regina Santos-Aviles, who later died by suicide. The admission comes amid growing scrutiny and an investigation by the House Ethics Committee.
Key Takeaways
Rep. Tony Gonzales admitted to having an affair with a former staffer who later died by suicide. He faces an ethics investigation and calls for resignation from both parties.
- Rep. Tony Gonzales admits to affair with former staffer Regina Santos-Aviles
- Santos-Aviles died by suicide in September 2025 after setting herself on fire
- House Ethics Committee investigating allegations of sexual misconduct and unfair discrimination
- Gonzales faces runoff election against Brandon Herrera in May
The congressman acknowledged the relationship during an interview with conservative radio host Joe Pags, calling it a "lapse in judgment." Gonzales stated that he had reconciled with his wife and asked for forgiveness from God. He denied any involvement in Santos-Aviles' death, expressing shock at her passing.
Santos-Aviles died in September 2025 after setting herself on fire. Her husband, Adrian Aviles, has accused Gonzales of abusing his power and attempting to extort him for a $300,000 settlement. Gonzales denied these allegations, suggesting that the controversy is politically motivated.
The House Ethics Committee announced an investigation into whether Gonzales engaged in sexual misconduct with Santos-Aviles or discriminated unfairly by dispensing special favors or privileges. The committee's investigation follows calls for Gonzales' resignation from members of both parties.
Gonzales is set to face Brandon Herrera in a runoff election in May after neither candidate secured 50% of the vote in the GOP primary. Despite the scandal, Gonzales expressed confidence in his ability to win the runoff and retain his seat.
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