Texas Congressman Denies Affair, Claims Blackmail Amid Staffer’s Death
U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales faces serious allegations. A report claims he had an affair with a former staffer. This staffer later died by suicide. The married Republican congressman now claims he is being blackmailed. This news comes amid his reelection bid. It has sparked political controversy. The claims center on Regina Ann Santos-Aviles. She was Gonzales’s Uvalde Regional District Director. She died in September 2025. The death was ruled a suicide by self-immolation.
Allegations Surface
The San Antonio Express-News broke the story. They obtained text messages. The texts reportedly came from Santos-Aviles. She allegedly confessed to an affair. She sent them to a colleague. The messages state she had an affair with her boss. This boss is identified as Congressman Gonzales. A former staffer also corroborated the affair. This ex-staffer provided a text message. The message verified the affair. However, the Associated Press has not independently confirmed these texts. Rumors about their relationship had circulated previously. Gonzales had previously denied similar allegations. He called them “completely untruthful.” This is according to Texas Scorecard.
Congressman’s Response
Gonzales has strongly denied blackmail. He posted a partial email screenshot on social media. It was from the husband’s attorney. Gonzales accused the attorney of seeking money. He declared, “I WILL NOT BE BLACKMAILED.” He called the situation “disgusting.” He stated people were profiting from a tragedy. He also demanded the Uvalde Police report be made public. The congressman is running for reelection. His primary election is March 3. He has endorsements from prominent Republicans. President Trump has backed his campaign.
Husband’s Attorney Denies Blackmail
Robert Barrera represents Adrian Aviles. He is Santos-Aviles’s husband. Barrera denies any blackmail. He calls Gonzales’s claims a “desperate attempt.” He believes it aims to make Gonzales appear as a victim. Barrera stated he was pursuing settlement talks. These were for a potential lawsuit. He sent an email to Gonzales’s attorney. It discussed a settlement. The offer was up to $300,000. This was for a nondisclosure agreement. Barrera emphasized these were confidential discussions. He said they were not attempts to damage Gonzales’s career. He stated they were legal rights being pursued. He also alleged retaliation. Barrera claims Gonzales’s office retaliated against Santos-Aviles. This happened after the affair was discovered. Her job duties were restricted. Her advancement was hindered. This is according to the Congressional Accountability Act. This law protects legislative employees. It covers harassment and retaliation claims.
Background of the Tragedy
Regina Santos-Aviles was 35 years old. She died after setting herself on fire at her home. The Bexar County Medical Examiner ruled her death a suicide. The Uvalde Police Department investigated. Initial findings indicated no foul play. However, the investigation is ongoing. Santos-Aviles was married. Gonzales is also married. He has six children. Her husband, Adrian Aviles, stated he discovered the affair in May 2024. He found “very sexual” messages. He seeks accountability for the situation. He feels Gonzales “ruined somebody’s life.”
Political Fallout
The allegations have intensified the race for Texas’s 23rd Congressional District. Challenger Brandon Herrera has called for Gonzales to resign. He cited ethical misconduct. The Express-News editorial board rescinded its endorsement. This news has put Gonzales’s reelection bid under a spotlight. The controversy highlights the intersection of personal conduct and public office. It raises questions about ethics and accountability in Congress. The future implications for Gonzales’s career remain unfolding. The legal and political battles continue.
