Texas Republican Representative Gonzales to not seek re-election

Gonzales cites personal reasons for decision after ethics probe announced

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales, a Texas Republican, has announced he will not seek re-election after a congressional ethics panel said it would investigate allegations he had an affair with a former staff member who later died by suicide.

Why it matters

Gonzales' decision not to run again comes amid an ethics probe, which could have significant political implications in the closely divided House of Representatives. His district in Texas has been a Republican stronghold, so his retirement could open up a competitive race.

The details

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Gonzales said he made the decision 'after deep reflection and with the support of my loving family' and that he will continue to serve out the rest of his current term with the 'same commitment' to his district.

  • On March 5, 2026, Gonzales announced he will not seek re-election.
  • A congressional ethics panel had announced a day earlier it would investigate allegations against Gonzales.

The players

Tony Gonzales

A Republican U.S. Representative from Texas who has decided not to run for re-election.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“After deep reflection and with the support of my loving family, I have decided not to seek re-election while serving out the rest of this congress with the same commitment I've always had to my district.”

— Tony Gonzales, U.S. Representative (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

Gonzales' decision not to run again will set off a competitive race to fill the open seat in his Texas district, which has historically leaned Republican.

The takeaway

Gonzales' retirement amid an ethics probe highlights the personal and political pressures faced by lawmakers, and could shift the balance of power in the narrowly divided House of Representatives.