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Gonzales Today
By the People, for the People
Congressman Tony Gonzales Drops Re-Election Bid After Aide's Suicide
Gonzales cites "deep reflection" with family after admitting affair with staffer who died by suicide.
Published on Mar. 6, 2026
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One day after admitting to an affair with a staffer who died by suicide, Congressman Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) has announced he is dropping out of the GOP primary race for his seat in Texas' 23rd District. Gonzales said he made the decision after deep reflection with the support of his family, though he vowed to serve out the remainder of his current term.
Why it matters
The scandal surrounding Gonzales' affair with his late staffer, Regina Santos-Aviles, and her subsequent suicide has raised serious questions about potential ethics violations and misconduct. The House Ethics Committee has launched an investigation into the matter, adding further pressure on Gonzales' political future.
The details
In September 2025, Santos-Aviles died by suicide after setting herself on fire. Rumors of an affair between Gonzales, a married father of six, and his staffer soon surfaced, which Gonzales initially denied. However, text messages later emerged confirming the affair, including messages where Gonzales asked Santos-Aviles to send him a "sexy pic." Gonzales finally admitted to the affair this week, calling it a "mistake" and a "lapse in judgment."
- In September 2025, Santos-Aviles died by suicide.
- On March 5, 2026, Gonzales admitted to the affair with Santos-Aviles.
- On March 6, 2026, Gonzales announced he is dropping out of the GOP primary race.
The players
Congressman Tony Gonzales
A Republican Congressman representing Texas' 23rd District who has announced he is dropping out of the GOP primary race after admitting to an affair with a staffer who died by suicide.
Regina Santos-Aviles
A staffer for Congressman Gonzales who died by suicide in September 2025 after setting herself on fire. Gonzales later admitted to having an affair with Santos-Aviles.
Brandon Herrera
Gonzales' opponent in the GOP primary race for Texas' 23rd District, who has now declared victory after Gonzales' withdrawal.
What they’re saying
“After deep reflection with the support of my family, I have decided to withdraw from the GOP primary race for Texas' 23rd Congressional District.”
— Congressman Tony Gonzales
What’s next
The House Ethics Committee will continue its investigation into potential ethics violations and misconduct by Congressman Gonzales.
The takeaway
This scandal highlights the personal and professional consequences that can arise from inappropriate relationships between elected officials and their staff, as well as the importance of transparency and accountability in public service.
