Texas Congressman’s Approval Plummets Amid Scandal
Approval ratings for Texas Republican Rep. Tony Gonzalez have taken a significant hit following allegations of an affair with a former aide, which preceded her tragic suicide, according to a poll obtained by The Daily Caller.
Regina Santos-Avilés reportedly acknowledged the relationship months before her death by self-immolation outside her residence in Uvalde, Texas, in September 2025. A recent PI Polling survey of 544 likely Republican primary voters conducted from February 18-20 indicated that 54% held an unfavorable view of Gonzalez, who is now contending against Second Amendment advocate and YouTube figure Brandon Herrera in the primaries.
In a February poll, Gonzalez was trailing Herrera by a margin of 45% to 21%, marking a notable drop from a December survey where he led 40% to 33%. Despite previously having the support of Donald Trump, when respondents learned of the allegations, 61% expressed hesitation about voting for him in the upcoming primary on March 3.
A source in Texas familiar with the case described the relationship between Gonzalez and Santos-Avilés as an “open secret.” The Daily Caller had not independently verified the rumors until now.
“It’s common sense,” commented attorney Bobby Barrera, who represents Regina’s widow, Adrian Aviles. “Staff were clearly aware that this event was occurring.”
A former staff member who left to work on Democratic campaigns in Los Angeles claimed he was aware of their interactions during the 2024 election cycle, suggesting these incidents became widely known among staff. Notably, a text message from Santos-Avilés has since surfaced.
On social media, Herrera shared that he had seen text messages exchanged between Gonzalez and the late aide, stating, “It is now clear that Tony Gonzalez is a sexual predator who abused his position of power and destroyed families. This is not the only instance; he must resign.”
In response, Gonzalez asserted, “In my six years in Congress, no formal complaints have been filed against my office.” He claimed that political attacks are rampant as election day approaches, while expressing confidence that his supporters remain energized.
