Rep. Tony Gonzales Won't Seek Re-Election Amid Ethics Probe

The Texas congressman admitted to an affair with a former staffer, prompting a House Ethics investigation.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rep. Tony Gonzales, a Republican from Texas, announced Thursday night that he will not seek re-election amid a House Ethics Committee investigation into an affair he admitted to having with a former staff member. Gonzales, who is married with six children, said he will serve out the remainder of his term but will not run again.

Why it matters

The revelation of Gonzales' affair and the subsequent ethics probe raises questions about misconduct and abuse of power by elected officials. It also highlights the challenges of maintaining public trust in government when personal scandals emerge.

The details

In a statement, Gonzales said he had sworn at age 18 to defend the nation, and had fought for that cause with "absolute dedication" during his 20 years in the military and three terms in Congress. However, he admitted to having an affair with a former staff member, which prompted the House Ethics Committee to launch an investigation on Wednesday to determine if he had engaged in inappropriate sexual relationships and granted special favors or privileges as a result.

  • On Wednesday, the House Ethics Committee launched an investigation into Gonzales' affair.
  • On Thursday night, Gonzales announced he will not seek re-election.

The players

Rep. Tony Gonzales

A Republican congressman from Texas who is married with six children and has served three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.

House Ethics Committee

The committee responsible for investigating potential misconduct by members of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“At 18, I swore an oath to defend our nation against all enemies, foreign and domestic. During my 20 years in the military and three terms in Congress, I have fought for that cause with absolute dedication to the country I love.”

— Rep. Tony Gonzales (foxnews.com)

What’s next

The House Ethics Committee will continue its investigation into Gonzales' alleged affair and any potential abuse of power or misconduct.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of elected officials maintaining the highest ethical standards and the consequences they can face when personal scandals emerge that undermine public trust in government.