US Congressman Tony Gonzales has withdrawn from his re-election campaign after admitting to an affair with a staff member who later died by suicide. The Republican lawmaker announced Thursday night that he would step aside from the GOP primary runoff against Brandon Herrera in Texas’ 23rd congressional district. Herrera immediately declared victory in the primary and is now expected to move forward to the general election.
Gonzales said his decision followed careful reflection with his family, but he will continue to serve the remainder of his term in the United States House of Representatives. The controversy intensified after Regina Santos Aviles, a staff member, died by suicide in September 2025 after setting herself on fire. Reports and public speculation had suggested a relationship between Gonzales, who is married with six children, and Santos Aviles. Gonzales initially denied the claims, but the San Antonio Express-News later published text messages in which Santos Aviles acknowledged an affair and messages reportedly showing Gonzales requesting intimate photos.
Earlier this week, Gonzales publicly admitted to the relationship during an interview on The Joe Pags Show, calling it a “mistake” and a “lapse in judgment.” His admission drew widespread attention, prompting renewed questions about ethics, accountability, and personal conduct in public office.
The US House Ethics Committee has opened an investigation to determine whether Gonzales violated congressional rules. The inquiry will examine allegations of sexual misconduct and favoritism, and it could have implications for standards of behavior for elected officials.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about political responsibility and the consequences of private actions on public trust. Gonzales’ withdrawal marks a turning point in the race for Texas’ 23rd congressional district, but the ethical questions surrounding his conduct and the tragic death of his staff member remain central to ongoing debates about oversight and accountability in government.
