Story perspectives

Texas Congressman Defies Calls to Resign Amid Scandal

2/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales faces pressure to resign amid allegations of an affair with Regina Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide in September 2025.
Text messages show Gonzales pressured Santos-Aviles for explicit photos and conversations.
Republican colleagues including Reps. Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace condemned the actions and called for resignation.
Gonzales remains defiant, saying he will not step down, while facing a competitive primary against Brandon Herrera.

History

Historical Context

In September 2006, Congressman Mark Foley resigned after allegations surfaced that he sent sexually explicit messages to teenage congressional pages. This scandal prompted investigations by the FBI and the House Ethics Committee, revealing negligence among Republican leaders, including Speaker Dennis Hastert. The fallout contributed to the Republican Party's significant losses in the 2006 midterm elections, highlighting the need for ethical reforms in politics.

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Story summary

Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales faces pressure to resign amid allegations of an affair with Regina Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide in September 2025.
Text messages show Gonzales pressured Santos-Aviles for explicit photos and conversations.
Republican colleagues including Reps. Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace condemned the actions and called for resignation.
Gonzales remains defiant, saying he will not step down, while facing a competitive primary against Brandon Herrera.

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