Texas Congressman Under Fire for Alleged Affair With Staffer Who Died by Suicide

Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) is under investigation by the House Office of Congressional Conduct for alleged sexual misconduct with a staffer who died by suicide in September 2025.

Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who worked in Gonzales’ office for four years until her death, set herself on fire in her backyard in Uvalde, Texas, authorities later ruling it a suicide by self-immolation. Gonzales is married with six children, while Santos-Aviles was married with one child. A House rule prohibits members from engaging in sexual relationships with employees under their supervision.

Gonzales has denied the allegations of an affair. Adrian Aviles, Santos-Aviles’ husband, stated that he confronted his wife about the alleged affair last year. According to reports, Aviles’ lawyer, Bobby Barrera, sought $300,000 in exchange for a nondisclosure agreement with Aviles. Barrera admitted to making such requests, saying they did not want to ruin Gonzales’ career.

Gonzales claimed on social media that he would not be blackmailed and accused his political opponent Brandon Herrera of using the situation to engage in a politically motivated smear campaign. He stated that he remains focused on helping President Donald Trump secure the border and improve lives for Texans.

Aviles countered that Gonzales has been evasive, refusing accountability, and spreading lies to protect his image, calling his actions disgraceful and misleading to constituents. The House Office of Congressional Conduct is investigating whether Gonzales violated any House rules regarding the alleged affair, with the investigation ongoing as Gonzales faces a Republican primary election on March 3.