Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales Confesses to Affair with Staffer Who Died by Suicide
Republican Representative Tony Gonzales has publicly admitted to having an affair with a staff member who tragically died by suicide last year, as the House Ethics Committee initiates a formal investigation into the Texas congressman. Gonzales came clean after facing months of accusations regarding an inappropriate relationship with Regina Santos-Aviles, a 35-year-old wife and mother employed in his Uvalde district office.
Gonzales Takes Full Responsibility in Bombshell Interview
In a revealing interview with conservative talk show host Joe Pagliarulo released on Wednesday, Gonzales stated, "I made a mistake and I had a lapse in judgement and there was a lack of faith and I take full responsibility for those actions." The congressman, who has six children with his wife Angel, claimed he has reconciled with his spouse and sought divine forgiveness, asserting his faith remains strong.
Gonzales emphasized he had "absolutely nothing to do" with Santos-Aviles' death, which occurred in September 2025 in the backyard of her Uvalde home. When questioned about the power dynamics between a supervisor and subordinate, Gonzales acknowledged, "It's a serious issue that we have to talk about," while maintaining the importance of understanding all facts and details.
House Ethics Committee Launches Formal Probe
The House Ethics Committee announced on Wednesday it is opening an investigation to determine whether Gonzales violated congressional rules. The probe will examine allegations of potential sexual misconduct toward an employee and unfair discrimination through special favors. This development comes amid increasing political pressure on the Texas representative.
Text Messages and Personal Fallout Revealed
Earlier this month, the San Antonio Express-News published text messages allegedly sent by Gonzales to Santos-Aviles in May 2024, including one requesting "Send me a sexy pic." Bobby Barrera, attorney for Santos-Aviles' widow Adrian Aviles, revealed in a KSAT interview that Adrian knew about the affair and it contributed to their separation.
Political Consequences and Reelection Campaign
Despite mounting calls for his resignation, Gonzales continues his reelection campaign. He was forced into a primary runoff election with gun rights activist Brandon Herrera after failing to secure 50 percent of the vote in the initial primary. The controversy has significantly impacted his political standing as he faces both ethical scrutiny and electoral challenges.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the national suicide and crisis lifeline at 988.
