Trending Now - Texas GOP Rep Tony Gonzales Acknowledges Affair With Aide

WHO:

Tony Gonzales, Republican Representative from Texas

Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, former staffer of Tony Gonzales

Robert Barrera, attorney for Santos-Aviles' husband

WHAT:

Tony Gonzales admitted to having an affair with a former staffer on March 4, 2026.

The House Ethics Committee launched an investigation into Gonzales on March 4, 2026.

Gonzales stated, "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."

Gonzales denied any involvement in Santos-Aviles' death, which occurred on September 13, 2025.

Gonzales accused Santos-Aviles' husband of "blackmail" regarding a potential lawsuit, claiming the maximum recoverable amount was $300,000.

Barrera denied the blackmail allegations, stating, "There’s no blackmail here. I mean, it’s just ridiculous allegations."

WHERE:

Uvalde, Texas (location of Santos-Aviles' death)

Gonzales made his admission during an appearance on "The Joe Pags Show."

WHEN:

Gonzales admitted to the affair on March 4, 2026.

The Ethics Committee investigation began on March 4, 2026.

Santos-Aviles died on September 13, 2025.

Gonzales last communicated with Santos-Aviles in June 2024.

WHY:

The investigation was initiated to determine if Gonzales engaged in sexual misconduct and whether he provided special favors to his staffer.

HOW:

Gonzales made his confession during a radio show appearance and has publicly stated he will not step down amid the allegations.

On March 4, 2026, Texas Republican Representative Tony Gonzales admitted to having an affair with former staffer Regina Ann Santos-Aviles during a radio appearance on "The Joe Pags Show," while the House Ethics Committee launched an investigation into his conduct. Gonzales acknowledged his mistake, stating he takes full responsibility for his actions, but denied any involvement in Santos-Aviles' death, which occurred on September 13, 2025, and accused her husband of blackmail regarding a potential lawsuit. In response, attorney Robert Barrera dismissed the blackmail claims as "ridiculous allegations," as the investigation seeks to determine if Gonzales engaged in sexual misconduct or provided special favors to his staffer.