Texas Congressman Denies Blackmail Claims Over Alleged Affair

Rep. Tony Gonzales says he won't be 'blackmailed' over reported relationship with former staffer who later died by suicide.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas has claimed he is being 'blackmailed' following a report that he allegedly had an affair with a former staffer who later died by suicide. The congressman, who is running for re-election, has denied the allegations and accused the husband of the deceased staffer of seeking money through a potential lawsuit.

Why it matters

The allegations against Gonzales, a married Republican congressman, raise questions about potential misconduct and abuse of power in his office. The case also highlights the complex issues surrounding workplace relationships, grief, and the need for transparency and accountability in government.

The details

According to reports, the former staffer, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, wrote to a colleague that she had an affair with Gonzales. Santos-Aviles later died by suicide in September 2025. Her husband, Adrian Aviles, has said he found out about the alleged affair prior to his wife's death and is seeking damages through a potential lawsuit under the Congressional Accountability Act. Gonzales has denied the allegations and accused Aviles of trying to 'blackmail' him.

  • In September 2025, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles died by suicide.
  • On February 19, 2026, the San Antonio Express-News reported on the alleged affair between Gonzales and Santos-Aviles.

The players

Rep. Tony Gonzales

A Republican U.S. congressman from Texas who is running for re-election and has denied the allegations of an affair with a former staffer.

Regina Ann Santos-Aviles

A former staffer of Rep. Gonzales who died by suicide in September 2025 and allegedly had an affair with the congressman.

Adrian Aviles

The husband of Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who has said he found out about the alleged affair prior to his wife's death and is seeking damages through a potential lawsuit.

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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.”

— Rep. 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 the potential lawsuit will decide whether to allow the case to move forward under the Congressional Accountability Act.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex issues surrounding workplace relationships, grief, and the need for transparency and accountability in government. It raises questions about potential misconduct and abuse of power, and the impact on the lives of those involved.