House Ethics Committee opens inquiry into Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales

The investigation comes as Gonzales heads into a high-stakes primary runoff election.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The House Ethics Committee has voted to begin a formal investigation into Rep. Tony Gonzales, a Texas Republican, over allegations of sexual misconduct towards a former staff member. The inquiry follows reports that Gonzales allegedly had a relationship with a former staff member, Regina Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide last year. Gonzales has denied any wrongdoing and welcomed the opportunity to present the facts to the committee.

Why it matters

The ethics probe now looms over Gonzales' high-stakes primary runoff election, which could determine his political future. The investigation adds fresh uncertainty to an already contentious contest, as the findings could potentially impact Gonzales' chances of securing another term representing his South Texas district.

The details

The House Ethics Committee has voted to begin a formal investigation into Rep. Tony Gonzales, just as the Texas Republican heads into a high-stakes primary runoff. The ethics announcement comes on the heels of a closely contested Republican primary in which neither Gonzales nor challenger Brandon Herrera secured a majority, triggering a runoff set for late May. The deadline to withdraw from the race is mid-March. The ethics probe, which could stretch on for months or longer, now looms over the 12-week campaign.

  • The House Ethics Committee voted to begin the investigation on March 5, 2026.
  • The Texas Republican primary runoff election is set for late May 2026.
  • The deadline for Gonzales to withdraw from the race is mid-March 2026.

The players

Rep. Tony Gonzales

A Texas Republican congressman who is the subject of the House Ethics Committee investigation.

Brandon Herrera

Gonzales' challenger in the Texas Republican primary runoff election.

Regina Santos-Aviles

A former staff member of Gonzales who allegedly had a relationship with him and died by suicide last year.

Mike Johnson

The House Speaker who has urged patience and encouraged Gonzales to publicly address the allegations.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I welcome the opportunity to present all the facts to the committee.”

— Rep. Tony Gonzales (kpua.net)

“You know I've always been consistent: We allow due process and investigations to play out.”

— House Speaker Mike Johnson (kpua.net)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.