Texas Congressman Faces Scrutiny Over Alleged Affair and Aide’s Suicide

U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) is embroiled in controversy following allegations of an affair with a former aide, Regina Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide in September 2025. The allegations surfaced as Gonzales faces a competitive primary election, with opponents seizing on the scandal to challenge his re-election bid.

Affair Allegations and Text Message Evidence

The controversy began with the publication of a text message reportedly sent by Santos-Aviles in 2024, in which she admitted to having an affair with Gonzales. The text was first reported by the San Antonio Express-News and has led to calls for Gonzales to address the allegations directly. Dallas Express

A former staffer told the San Antonio Express-News that Santos-Aviles became depressed after her husband discovered the affair and Gonzales ended contact with her. The aide’s husband’s lawyer stated the relationship was an “open secret” but did not believe it contributed to her death. Dallas Express

Gonzales’ Response and Accusations

Gonzales has acknowledged Santos-Aviles as a dedicated public servant, describing her as “a kind soul” devoted to her community. HuffPost However, he has accused his Republican primary challenger, Brandon Herrera, of exploiting her death for political gain. Gonzales claims Herrera is using a “disgruntled former staffer” to smear Santos-Aviles’ memory. HuffPost

“It’s shameful that Brandon Herrera is using a disgruntled former staffer to smear her memory and score political points, conveniently pushing this out the particularly day early voting started,” Gonzales said in a statement. HuffPost

Political Implications and Primary Challenge

The scandal has emerged during a closely watched primary election. Herrera has called on Gonzales to step down, echoing a similar demand from a Republican representative in the Texas legislature. HuffPost

Prediction markets indicate Herrera is currently favored to win the primary, with Polymarket giving him a 57 percent chance of victory compared to Gonzales’ 41 percent. The Daily Beast Despite facing these challenges, Gonzales has received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, who praised his support for key conservative issues. The Daily Beast

Investigation and Cause of Death

Santos-Aviles died in September 2025 after setting herself on fire at her home in Uvalde, Texas. Dallas Express Initial investigations reportedly found no evidence of foul play. Dallas Express

Key Takeaways

• Representative Tony Gonzales is facing allegations of an affair with a former aide, Regina Santos-Aviles.
• Santos-Aviles died by suicide in September 2025.
• Gonzales has accused his primary opponent, Brandon Herrera, of exploiting the situation for political gain.
• Herrera is currently favored to win the primary election.