Tony Gonzales

Tony Gonzales, a U.S. Representative from Texas, has been publicly reported to be involved in multiple controversies related to an extramarital affair with staffer Regina Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide in September 2025; Gonzales admitted to having a "lapse in judgment" and described the relationship as a "mistake" (BBC, KSAT, NBC News). An ethics investigation into the affair was initiated months before allegations became public and has reportedly concluded, though the report has not been publicly released (NBC News, KSAT). Gonzales has denied any romantic involvement with Santos-Aviles prior to her death, framing the allegations as politically motivated and accusing her husband of blackmail (NBC News, BBC). Several fellow Republicans have called for his resignation, and he faces a challenging primary election in Texas (NPR).