Congressman Gonzales drops out of runoff election

Gonzales cited personal reasons after admitting to affair with staffer who later died by suicide

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales announced he would end his reelection bid on March 5, the day after he admitted to having an affair with his Uvalde aide who later committed suicide. Gonzales was set to face Brandon Herrera, the social media personality and firearm manufacturer known as the 'AK Guy,' in the Republican runoff race for the congressional seat.

Why it matters

Gonzales' withdrawal from the race comes as a surprise, as he was considered the frontrunner. His decision highlights the personal and professional consequences that can arise from ethical lapses by elected officials, and raises questions about the political future of both Gonzales and Herrera in the district.

The details

In a statement, Gonzales said he was ending his campaign "after deep reflection and with the support of my loving family." He did not provide further details about the circumstances surrounding his aide's death, but acknowledged the need to focus on serving out the remainder of his current term.

  • Gonzales announced his withdrawal on March 5, 2026.
  • The Republican runoff election was scheduled for March 31, 2026.

The players

Tony Gonzales

U.S. Representative who was seeking reelection but has now withdrawn from the race.

Brandon Herrera

Social media personality and firearm manufacturer known as the 'AK Guy,' who was set to face Gonzales in the Republican runoff election.

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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 (Uvalde Leader News)

What’s next

The Republican runoff election scheduled for March 31, 2026 will now proceed with only Brandon Herrera as the sole candidate.

The takeaway

Gonzales' withdrawal highlights the personal and professional consequences that can arise from ethical lapses by elected officials, and raises questions about the political future of both Gonzales and Herrera in the district.