Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales to Retire After Affair Scandal

Gonzales admits to relationship with former aide who later died by suicide

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:27am

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A serene, cinematic painting depicting a lone Texas state flag hanging in the warm, diagonal sunlight of an empty government building, conveying a sense of melancholy and political turmoil.The resignation of a Texas congressman amid an affair scandal casts a long shadow over the state's political landscape.Gonzales Today

Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) announced he will be retiring from Congress after admitting to an affair with a former aide, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide in 2025. The House Ethics Committee had launched an investigation into Gonzales over allegations of sexual misconduct and unfair treatment of the staffer.

Why it matters

Gonzales's retirement comes amid growing scrutiny over misconduct allegations in Congress, with the House Ethics Committee probing the details of his relationship with the former aide. This case highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency around workplace relationships between lawmakers and their staff.

The details

Gonzales confirmed the affair in a March radio interview, saying he 'made a mistake' and took 'full responsibility' for his actions. According to a former Gonzales staffer, the relationship became known during the 2024 election cycle, with Gonzales and Santos-Aviles allegedly spending time together at a rental cabin. Santos-Aviles later died by suicide in September 2025 after setting herself on fire.

  • In March 2026, Gonzales admitted to the affair during a radio interview.
  • On April 13, 2026, Gonzales announced he would be filing to retire from Congress.
  • In September 2025, Santos-Aviles died by suicide after setting herself on fire.

The players

Rep. Tony Gonzales

A Republican Congressman representing Texas's 23rd congressional district who is retiring after admitting to an affair with a former aide.

Regina Ann Santos-Aviles

Gonzales's former regional district director who died by suicide in 2025 after admitting to an affair with the congressman.

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What they’re saying

“'There is a season for everything and God has a plan for us all. When Congress returns tomorrow, I will file my retirement from office. It has been my privilege to serve the great people of Texas.'”

— Rep. Tony Gonzales, Congressman

“'I made a mistake. I had a lapse in judgment, and there was a lack of faith. I take full responsibility for those actions. Since then, I've reconciled with my wife, Angel. I've asked God to forgive me, which he has, and my faith is as strong as ever.'”

— Rep. Tony Gonzales, Congressman

What’s next

The House Ethics Committee's investigation into Gonzales's conduct is ongoing, and the panel will determine whether he violated any rules or laws.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency around workplace relationships between lawmakers and their staff, as well as the importance of addressing mental health issues that may arise from such situations.