US Representative Tony Gonzales, a Republican from Texas, has admitted to having an affair with a former aide who died by suicide last year. In an interview with conservative media personality Joe Pags, Gonzales said he had a 'lapse in judgment' and has since reconciled with his wife.
The admission comes after the House ethics committee announced an investigation into allegations against Gonzales, including sexual misconduct toward an employee and preferential treatment. Gonzales denied any involvement in the death of Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who set herself on fire in September 2025.
Gonzales claimed that a lawyer for Santos-Aviles's widower demanded $300,000, which he refused. The lawyer, Bobby Barrera, said the claim was legitimate under the Congressional Accountability Act, which caps damages at $300,000.
Gonzales, a father of six and former Navy veteran, has said he will not resign. He faces a primary runoff against gun-rights influencer Brandon Herrera in May.
