Texas Congressman, Tony Gonzales announced Thursday afternoon that he would no longer seek re-election. The Texas Republican faced mounting pressure from party leaders after he admitted an extramarital affair with a former staffer.
Statement Released on Social Media
Gonzales shared his decision on X. He stated, “After deep reflection and with the support of my loving family, I have decided not to seek re-election while serving out the rest of this Congress with the same commitment I’ve always had to my district.” He added, “Through the rest of my term, I will continue fighting for my constituents, for whom I am eternally grateful. God has a plan for all of us.”
Congressman Admits Mistake on Radio Show
The announcement came one day after Gonzales admitted the relationship as reported by ALO360. He appeared on the conservative radio program The Joe Pags Show. Gonzales said, “I made a mistake, and I had a lapse in judgment, and there was a lack of faith, and I take full responsibility for those actions.” He continued, “I’ve asked God to forgive me, which he has. And my faith is as strong as ever.”
Staffer Died by Suicide Last Year
The former staffer, Regina Santos-Aviles, died by suicide in September 2025. She set herself on fire at her home in Uvalde, Texas. An autopsy later showed she was intoxicated at the time.
Following the admission, top House Republicans called on Gonzales to drop his campaign. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson joined other GOP leaders in a joint statement. They declared, “Leadership has asked Congressman Gonzales to withdraw from his race for re-election.”
Ethics Committee Launches Probe
Meanwhile, the U.S. House Committee on Ethics opened a formal investigation. The panel examined whether Gonzales engaged in sexual misconduct toward an employee in his congressional office or dispensed special favors. Gonzales had previously welcomed the review and said he would cooperate.
Gonzales advanced to a primary runoff earlier in the week. He chose to finish his term through 2026 despite ending his re-election bid. No immediate calls for his resignation came from party leaders.
