Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales is embroiled in a deeply troubling scandal involving allegations of an affair with former staffer Regina Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide in September 2025 after setting herself on fire.
Santos-Aviles' husband, Adrian Aviles, has accused Gonzales of causing his wife's tragic death due to their alleged relationship, claiming the congressman abused his power.
Text messages purportedly from Santos-Aviles reveal she confessed to the affair months before her untimely death, casting a shadow over Gonzales' denials.
Gonzales claims he is being "blackmailed" by Aviles and that the affair allegations are a political smear orchestrated by his GOP primary opponent, Brandon Herrera.
The ongoing investigation by the Office of Congressional Conduct is scrutinizing Gonzales' communications, raising serious questions about his conduct and accountability.
As the scandal unfolds in the midst of a heated primary race, it threatens to derail Gonzales' political career, with analysts noting the potential impact on the broader political landscape in Texas.
Top Keywords
Tony Gonzales/Regina Santos-Aviles/Adrian Aviles/Brandon Herrera/Uvalde, United States/Texas, United States/Office of Congressional Conduct/