Trump Booed After Praising Congressman Embroiled in Scandal

Former president's remarks about Rep. Tony Gonzales draw jeers from Texas crowd

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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During a speech focused on energy policy at the Port of Corpus Christi, former President Donald Trump unexpectedly praised embattled Republican Congressman Tony Gonzales, drawing boos from the crowd. Gonzales has been embroiled in a scandal involving an alleged affair with a staff member who later died by suicide.

Why it matters

Trump's praise for Gonzales, despite the congressman's personal and ethical controversies, highlights the former president's continued influence within the Republican party and his willingness to stand by allies even in the face of public disapproval.

The details

In his speech, Trump offered 'congratulations' to Gonzales, the U.S. Representative for Texas's 23rd congressional district, without providing any context. Gonzales has been the subject of scrutiny after a former aide with whom he allegedly had an affair died by suicide in 2023, setting herself on fire. The crowd at the port event reacted negatively to Trump's unexpected praise of Gonzales.

  • Trump gave the speech at the Port of Corpus Christi on February 28, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who made the controversial remarks about Rep. Tony Gonzales.

Rep. Tony Gonzales

The U.S. Representative for Texas's 23rd congressional district who has been embroiled in a scandal involving an alleged affair with a staff member who later died by suicide.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

Trump's praise for Gonzales despite the congressman's personal and ethical controversies highlights the former president's continued influence within the Republican party and his willingness to stand by allies even in the face of public disapproval.