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Gonzales acknowledges relationship after initial denial
Texas Republican Congressman Tony Gonzales has publicly admitted to an extramarital affair with a married staff member, Regina Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide in September 2025. The 45-year-old lawmaker, who represents a district along the US-Mexico border, previously dismissed allegations of the relationship as "blackmail" and a "coordinated" political attack.
Ethics investigation launched amid primary runoff
The admission came hours after the House Ethics Committee announced an inquiry into whether Gonzales engaged in sexual misconduct with an employee. The panel will also examine claims that he provided Santos-Aviles with "special favors or privileges." Gonzales, who is married with six children, told conservative podcaster Joe Pags that the relationship was a "mistake" and a "lapse in judgment."
"I take full responsibility for my actions. When you make mistakes like this, it humbles you."
Tony Gonzales, in a podcast interview
Aide's death and allegations of workplace harassment
Santos-Aviles, Gonzales's regional district director in Uvalde, died after setting herself on fire near her home. The medical examiner ruled her death a suicide. Gonzales claimed her passing was unrelated to their affair, stating she was "thriving" at work. However, her husband's lawyer, Bobby Barrera, told CBS News that her mental health deteriorated sharply after the relationship ended, alleging workplace harassment by Gonzales.
Text messages obtained by CBS from May 2024 show Gonzales asking Santos-Aviles to send him a "sexy pic." She reportedly responded twice that he had gone "too far." The following month, her husband texted Gonzales and other aides from her phone, accusing the congressman of an ongoing affair.
Political fallout and calls for resignation
Gonzales, who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump, now faces mounting pressure to resign, including from fellow Republicans like South Carolina Congresswoman Nancy Mace, who accused him of "predatory behavior." The congressman denied providing Santos-Aviles with preferential treatment, attributing a pay raise she received to a "staff-wide increase."
The scandal emerges as Gonzales heads into a May runoff election after failing to secure 50% of the vote in this week's primary. His opponent, Brandon Herrera, also fell short of the threshold. The heavily Republican-leaning district will vote in November's general election to determine its next representative.
Gonzales seeks forgiveness amid ongoing scrutiny
In the podcast interview, Gonzales said he had asked God for forgiveness and claimed there was "a whole lot more to the story," though he did not elaborate. The BBC has reached out to his office for further comment on the allegations and Barrera's remarks but has not yet received a response.
If you or someone you know is struggling with distress or suicidal thoughts, support is available. In the US and Canada, call or text 988. In the UK, visit bbc.co.uk/actionline. For international resources, visit Befrienders Worldwide.
