Rep. Tony Gonzalez Resigns Following Affair Revelation
Rep. Tony Gonzalez (R-Texas) has announced his resignation from Congress after admitting to an affair with a former aide who tragically took her own life last year.
In a statement, Gonzalez mentioned, “There is a season for everything, and God has a plan for all of us.” He added, “When Congress reconvenes tomorrow, I will submit my resignation. It is my honor to serve the great people of Texas.”
This announcement comes after previous comments he made, where he acknowledged his “mistake” during a radio interview earlier this year. “I take full responsibility for those actions,” he stated.
“I made a mistake,” he said. “I lacked judgment and faith. I have since reconciled with my wife, Angel, and I asked God for forgiveness. My faith is as strong as ever.”
The affair was brought to light by a former staff member who spoke anonymously, revealing that Gonzalez had a relationship with Regina Ann Santos-Avilés, who referred to him as her “provincial mayor.” Her death in September 2025 involved tragic circumstances, as she was found after being “doused with gasoline and engulfed in flames.”
Some officials became aware of the relationship during the 2024 campaign. Reports indicated that Gonzalez stayed with Santos-Avilés at a family vacation rental in Concan multiple times throughout the primary campaign.
Two weeks after this revelation, Santos-Avilés contacted Gonzalez, distressed after her husband discovered texts revealing the affair. This occurred just after Gonzalez narrowly defeated Brandon Herrera in the Republican primary runoff.
In response to these reports, the House Ethics Committee announced an investigation into Gonzalez over allegations of sexual misconduct related to the former aide who died. The committee has set up a subcommittee to determine whether Gonzalez violated any specific conduct codes.
Gonzalez’s resignation comes shortly after Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) announced his own resignation following allegations of sexual assault against a former staffer.
