Rep. Tony Gonzales Admits to Affair, Faces Ethics Investigation

WASHINGTON — Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas acknowledged Wednesday having had an affair with an aide who later died by suicide, a revelation coinciding with the announcement of a House Ethics Committee investigation into the lawmaker. The affair occurred in 2024 with Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who died in September 2025 after setting herself on fire in Uvalde, Texas [1].

During an interview on the “Joe Pags Show,” Gonzales admitted to a “lapse in judgment” and took full responsibility for his actions when questioned about his relationship with Santos-Aviles [2], [4]. He stated he had reconciled with his wife and sought forgiveness.

Ethics Committee Investigation

The House Ethics Committee announced it will investigate whether Gonzales violated the Code of Official Conduct or any applicable standard of conduct, specifically regarding allegations of sexual misconduct and favoritism [2]. The committee’s chair and ranking member stated an investigative panel will determine if Gonzales engaged in misconduct toward an employee and granted special favors [2].

Gonzales has stated he will not resign [2]. He claimed he had not spoken to Santos-Aviles since June 2024 and was shocked by her death [2].

Background and Political Context

Gonzales, first elected in 2020 after a 20-year Navy career, is currently facing a runoff election against Brandon Herrera in the May primary [2]. The San Antonio Express-News reported obtaining text messages where Santos-Aviles indicated she had an affair with Gonzales [4]. The Associated Press has not independently verified these messages. Adrian Aviles, Santos-Aviles’ husband, has stated he learned of the affair before her death [2].

The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled Santos-Aviles’ death a suicide [3].