Story perspectives

Boebert Demands Gonzales Resignation Over Explicit Texts

2/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) calls for Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) to resign after explicit texts to Regina Santos-Aviles, a former aide who died by suicide in 2025.
The messages included requests for “sexy pics” and drew bipartisan condemnation.
House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged the seriousness but has not withdrawn support for Gonzales.
Critics urge a full investigation into Santos-Aviles's death, citing harassment concerns and the race against Brandon Herrera.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. has prioritized suicide prevention since the mid-1990s, culminating in the 2004 Suicide Prevention Act, which allocated $82 million for mental health initiatives. This legislation followed earlier efforts, including the establishment of the first suicide prevention center in 1958. Recent events, such as Rep. Tony Gonzales's controversy linked to Regina Santos-Aviles's suicide, underscore ongoing mental health challenges in political contexts.

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Story summary

Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) calls for Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) to resign after explicit texts to Regina Santos-Aviles, a former aide who died by suicide in 2025.
The messages included requests for “sexy pics” and drew bipartisan condemnation.
House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged the seriousness but has not withdrawn support for Gonzales.
Critics urge a full investigation into Santos-Aviles's death, citing harassment concerns and the race against Brandon Herrera.

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