Tony Gonzales, a Republican congressman from Texas, has admitted he had an extramarital relationship with a former staff member. The lawmaker made the confession during an interview shortly after advancing to a runoff in his party’s primary election. Gonzales described the relationship as a mistake and said he takes responsibility for his actions.

The woman involved, Regina Santos‑Aviles, later died after setting herself on fire at her home in Uvalde, Texas in September 2025. Reports say she was a married mother. Her husband later accused the congressman of abusing his position by engaging in a relationship with someone who worked under him.

The matter has drawn the attention of the United States House Committee on Ethics, which is reviewing allegations that Gonzales showed favoritism toward the staffer and engaged in misconduct. Text messages that surfaced online reportedly showed conversations between the two, further fueling the controversy.

Despite the backlash, Gonzales has denied any involvement in the woman’s death and said he had not communicated with her months before the incident. The congressman stated that he and his wife have since reconciled. Meanwhile, he is preparing for a runoff election against fellow Republican Brandon Herrera in Texas’ 23rd congressional district.