Republican congressman Tony Gonzales of Texas has announced he will not seek re-election, following his admission of an affair with a former staff member who later died by suicide. Gonzales had previously denied the relationship.
In a statement posted on X late on Thursday, Gonzales said: “After deep reflection and with the support of my loving family, I have decided not to seek re-election.” He indicated he would serve out the remainder of his term.
The announcement came after the House ethics committee opened an investigation into allegations that Gonzales engaged in sexual misconduct with Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who died at age 35 last September. The committee is also examining whether he dispensed special favours or privileges.
Gonzales faced mounting pressure from Republican leadership, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, who called on him to withdraw from the race. However, GOP leaders stopped short of demanding his resignation, as they seek to maintain their narrow majority in the House.
Several Republicans, including Florida congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna, have introduced resolutions to punish Gonzales, while Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries has expressed support for expelling him from the House. Gonzales has refused to step down from office.
