Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales Ends Re-Election Campaign Amid Affair Scandal and Ethics Probe

 Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas announced Thursday he will not seek re-election, capping a rapid downfall triggered by his admission of an extramarital affair with a former staffer who later died by suicide.

In a statement posted to X late Thursday, Gonzales said: "After deep reflection and with the support of my loving family, I have decided not to seek re-election while serving out the rest of this Congress with the same commitment I've always had to my district."

The decision follows intense pressure from House Republican leadership, including Speaker Mike Johnson, who urged him to withdraw his bid just hours earlier. Gonzales had advanced to a May runoff in Texas' 23rd District GOP primary after Tuesday's election but faced mounting backlash over the scandal.

On Wednesday, Gonzales publicly acknowledged for the first time having a sexual relationship with former aide Regina Santos-Aviles, calling it a "lapse in judgment" during a conservative radio interview. He had previously denied the affair.

Santos-Aviles, who managed Gonzales' Uvalde office, died by suicide in September 2025 after setting herself on fire. Her death was ruled a suicide by the Bexar County Medical Examiner's Office.

The revelations intensified in February 2026 when text messages surfaced showing Gonzales sending explicit requests to Santos-Aviles, including for photos and details about sexual preferences. She reportedly pushed back, saying the interaction was "going too far, boss."

The House Ethics Committee launched an investigation Wednesday into potential sexual misconduct and unfair treatment of staff. Bipartisan calls for Gonzales to resign or step aside had grown since the texts emerged.

Gonzales, a third-term lawmaker representing a large border district, vowed to complete his current term. His withdrawal opens the Republican primary runoff to other candidates, reshaping the race in a competitive Texas seat.

The scandal has highlighted ongoing concerns about workplace dynamics and power imbalances on Capitol Hill. Gonzales, married with children, expressed remorse and said he had sought forgiveness through his faith.