Texas Congressman Denies Blackmail Claim Over Alleged Affair

Rep. Tony Gonzales accused of retaliation against former staffer who later died by suicide

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas claimed he was being "blackmailed" following a report he allegedly had an affair with a former staffer, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who later died by suicide. Gonzales, a married Republican, denied the allegations and accused the husband of Santos-Aviles of seeking money through a potential lawsuit under the Congressional Accountability Act.

Why it matters

The allegations against Gonzales, who is running for reelection, raise concerns about potential abuse of power and misconduct by an elected official. The case also highlights the need for better protections and support for legislative branch employees who may face harassment or retaliation.

The details

According to the report, Santos-Aviles wrote to a colleague that she had an affair with Gonzales. Her husband, Adrian Aviles, later found out about the alleged affair prior to his wife's death. Aviles' attorney, Robert Barrera, said Gonzales retaliated against Santos-Aviles by restricting her job duties and advancement after the affair was discovered. Barrera denied blackmailing Gonzales and said his client wants the lawmaker to acknowledge the alleged affair.

  • In September 2025, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles died by suicide after setting herself on fire in her backyard.
  • On February 20, 2026, Gonzales claimed he was being "blackmailed" over the alleged affair.

The players

Tony Gonzales

A U.S. Representative from Texas who is running for reelection and has been endorsed by former President Donald Trump.

Regina Ann Santos-Aviles

A former staffer of Gonzales who allegedly had an affair with the congressman and later died by suicide.

Adrian Aviles

The husband of Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who is seeking damages through a potential lawsuit against Gonzales.

Robert Barrera

The attorney representing Adrian Aviles, who denied claims of blackmail and said his client wants Gonzales to acknowledge the alleged affair.

Brandon Herrera

A primary challenger to Gonzales who has called for the congressman to resign in the wake of the report.

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What they’re saying

“I WILL NOT BE BLACKMAILED. Disgusting to see people profit politically and financially off a tragic death.”

— Tony Gonzales (X)

“There's nothing political here. There's no demand for him to resign. That's up to the voters of that district, whether they want a man like Tony Gonzales to lead them into the future.”

— Robert Barrera, Attorney for Adrian Aviles (The Associated Press)

What’s next

The judge in any potential lawsuit filed by Adrian Aviles will decide whether to allow the case to proceed under the Congressional Accountability Act.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger protections and accountability measures for legislative branch employees, as well as the challenges faced by elected officials when allegations of misconduct arise. The outcome could have significant political implications for Gonzales and his reelection bid.