Tony Gonzales

Tony Gonzales is a former Republican U.S. Representative for Texas' 23rd Congressional District who served until his resignation in April 2026. His career ended following allegations of sexual misconduct and ethics violations. In March 2026, he admitted to an affair with a staffer, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide in September 2025. The House Ethics Committee subsequently launched an investigation into whether Gonzales engaged in sexual misconduct or granted the staffer special professional favors. Additionally, a separate allegation surfaced involving a 2020 campaign staffer who reported that Gonzales repeatedly solicited nude photos and sexual favors, though the relationship remained non-physical. Following bipartisan pressure and the threat of an expulsion vote, Gonzales abandoned his reelection bid in March 2026 and resigned from Congress on April 14, 2026. Due to his resignation, the House Ethics Committee lost jurisdiction over the case, effectively ending the official investigation.