Allegations Against Rep. Tony Gonzales Prompt Calls for Resignation

Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) is facing serious allegations regarding an affair with a former congressional staffer, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who tragically died by suicide last year. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has stated that Gonzales must address these allegations with his constituents but has refrained from calling for his resignation, emphasizing the need for ongoing investigations to conclude before any definitive action is taken.

The Hill

The allegations against Gonzales gained traction following reports from the *San Antonio Express-News*, which revealed that Santos-Aviles had communicated about the affair in April 2025. After her death, her widower, Adrian Aviles, publicly accused Gonzales of abusing his power and has since provided text messages that allegedly show Gonzales soliciting explicit photos from her. Gonzales has denied the affair, labeling the allegations as "personal smears" aimed at damaging his political career ahead of the upcoming March 3 primary.

The HillKSAT - San Antonio NewsThe HillPoliticoCNN

Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations, stating, “There are serious accusations, and it must be taken seriously,” while urging Gonzales to communicate directly with his constituents. Johnson has maintained his endorsement of Gonzales, asserting that it is "too early for anybody to prejudge" the situation. He emphasized the importance of allowing investigations to unfold, both at the state level in Texas and by the Office of Congressional Conduct.

Speaker Johnson Urges House Republican to Address Affair Allegations, Opposes Resignation

The allegations have prompted significant backlash from within the Republican Party. Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) was the first to publicly call for Gonzales' resignation, stating that the allegations reflect a severe abuse of power. Other Republican women, including Reps. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) and Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), have echoed these sentiments, condemning Gonzales' actions and calling for accountability. Boebert described the text messages as “disgusting and inexcusable,” asserting that such behavior should not be tolerated in Congress.

Politico

While Gonzales has consistently denied the affair, the release of text messages purportedly from him to Santos-Aviles raises questions about the nature of their relationship. Gonzales has accused Aviles of attempting to blackmail him, a claim that Aviles' attorney, Bobby Barrera, has publicly denied, stating that they are merely seeking to recover damages through legal channels.

The Hill

As the primary election approaches, the situation remains fluid. The Office of Congressional Conduct is expected to transmit its findings to the House Ethics Committee after the primary concludes. Gonzales' political future hangs in the balance as he faces a competitive challenge from Brandon Herrera, a YouTube personality who narrowly lost to him in 2024. The outcome of the investigations and the primary election will likely have significant implications for both Gonzales and the Republican Party as a whole.

Speaker Johnson Urges House Republican to Address Affair Allegations, Opposes Resignation

• “There are serious accusations, and it must be taken seriously,” — Mike Johnson, House Speaker

Speaker Johnson Urges House Republican to Address Affair Allegations, Opposes Resignation

• “This kind of abuse of power has no place anywhere, let alone in Congress, and Tony Gonzales should be ashamed and RESIGN IMMEDIATELY!” — Lauren Boebert, U.S. Representative

Politico

• “I WILL NOT BE BLACKMAILED. Disgusting to see people profit politically and financially off a tragic death.” — Tony Gonzales, U.S. Representative

The Hill

• “As a woman, this is really disgusting to see. Not to mention, it brings dishonor on the House of Representatives. I am so sick of people not calling this crap out,” — Anna Paulina Luna, U.S. Representative

Politico