Opinion: Tony Gonzales should have been honest with the public

In light of text messages confirming U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales' affair with a former staffer, the Express-News Editorial Board is withdrawing its recommendation in the Texas CD 23 primary.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The Express-News Editorial Board is withdrawing its recommendation for U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales in the Republican primary for Texas' 23rd Congressional District, after text messages confirmed Gonzales had an affair with his former district director, Regina Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide in September. The board says Gonzales' previous statement denying the affair was untruthful, and they see a "disturbing lack of character" from the elected official.

Why it matters

Gonzales is seeking his fourth term representing Congressional District 23, which runs from San Antonio to just outside El Paso. The affair with a former staffer raises concerns about Gonzales' integrity and character as an elected official.

The details

The Express-News Editorial Board says it was aware of rumors about the affair, but ultimately decided to follow the factual record as it was known at the time. However, reporting based on a text message screenshot from Santos-Aviles to another staffer, in which she says she had an "affair with our boss", has now confirmed the affair, contradicting Gonzales' previous denial.

  • In November during the Texas Tribune's TribFest, Gonzales said "The rumors are completely untruthful, and Regina's family has asked for privacy."
  • In September, Santos-Aviles died by suicide at her home in Uvalde.

The players

Tony Gonzales

U.S. Representative for Texas' 23rd Congressional District, seeking his fourth term.

Regina Santos-Aviles

Gonzales' former district director, who died by suicide in September.

Brandon Herrera

A social media influencer and gun rights enthusiast, challenging Gonzales in the Republican primary.

Quico Canseco

Former U.S. Representative who once represented Texas' 23rd Congressional District, challenging Gonzales in the Republican primary.

Keith Barton

A political newcomer, Marines Corps veteran and logistics professional, challenging Gonzales in the Republican primary.

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What they’re saying

“The rumors are completely untruthful, and Regina's family has asked for privacy.”

— Tony Gonzales (Texas Tribune)

What’s next

The Express-News Editorial Board says they will make no recommendation in the GOP primary for this race and will circle back in the general election. They stand by their Democratic primary recommendation.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of elected officials being truthful with the public, especially regarding personal relationships and potential conflicts of interest. The affair and subsequent deception raise serious questions about Gonzales' character and fitness for office.