Disturbing Texts Ignite Scrutiny (Image Credits: Upload.wikimedia.org)
Texas – U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales faced intensifying bipartisan demands to resign after text messages surfaced showing him soliciting explicit photos from a former staffer who later died by suicide.[1][2]
Disturbing Texts Ignite Scrutiny
Records revealed late-night exchanges between Gonzales and Regina Santos-Aviles, his former Uvalde district director, on May 9, 2024. Just after midnight, Gonzales messaged her requesting a “sexy pic” and pressed further when she hesitated.[3] Santos-Aviles responded that her life felt like a “Telenovela” and questioned if it was a test, but he replied, “Yes I do. Hurry.”[3]
The conversation escalated as Gonzales inquired about her “favorite position,” later describing his own preference as “on top pinning your legs.” She pushed back repeatedly, stating, “This is going too far, boss,” yet the exchange continued into discussions of meeting in person.[2][3] Two days later, the pair spent hours alone at a cabin owned by a former staffer’s family. These messages violated House rules prohibiting sexual relationships between lawmakers and staffers.[2]
Staffer’s Suicide Adds Layers of Tragedy
Santos-Aviles, who was married with an 8-year-old son, struggled after her husband Adrian Aviles discovered the affair in June 2024. He sent a group text to Gonzales and staff announcing the discovery and impending divorce.[3] Colleagues then ostracized her, contributing to her despondency amid alcohol issues and prior self-harm threats.
In September 2025, she doused herself in gasoline and set herself ablaze behind her Uvalde home. Responding officers reported she claimed the act stemmed from her husband’s involvement with her best friend. She died the next day at a San Antonio hospital after pleading for help in a 911 call: “Please send help, it burns so bad. My God, I don’t want to die.”[2] Aviles shared the texts publicly, denying blackmail accusations from Gonzales.
Fellow Republicans Break Ranks
At least five House Republicans publicly urged Gonzales to resign or withdraw from his March 3 primary race. Rep. Lauren Boebert posted “Resign!” alongside the texts, declaring, “This kind of abuse of power has no place anywhere, let alone in Congress.”[4][1]
The criticism extended to other prominent voices:
- Rep. Anna Paulina Luna called the behavior “really disgusting” and demanded condemnation from the Texas delegation.[4]
- Rep. Nancy Mace labeled the texts “disgusting and inexcusable,” advocating zero tolerance for power abuses.[4]
- Rep. Brandon Gill stated, “America deserves better. Tony should drop out of the race.”[1]
- Rep. Chip Roy renewed support for challenger Brandon Herrera, emphasizing the need for “conservative warriors.”[2]
Democrats joined the calls, amplifying the bipartisan backlash.
Johnson Urges Response, Probes Advance
House Speaker Mike Johnson described the allegations as “very serious” after speaking with Gonzales. He declined to demand resignation, insisting investigations must play out: “If the accusation of something is going to be the litmus test… you’ll have a lot of people who would have to resign.”[1][4] The Office of Congressional Conduct already examined the matter, with results headed to the Ethics Committee.
Gonzales previously denied any affair as “completely untruthful” but recently sidestepped direct responses. His office ignored comment requests, while he labeled the revelations a “coordinated political attack” tied to his narrow 2024 primary win over Herrera.[2]
High Stakes in Southwest Texas
Gonzales represents Texas’ expansive 23rd District, from San Antonio to El Paso, amid ongoing border debates. Challenger Herrera, backed by the Freedom Caucus Fund, capitalized on the scandal in ads linking it to Santos-Aviles’ death.[1] Early voting had begun, heightening the timing’s impact.
Key Takeaways
- Explicit 2024 texts violated House ethics rules on staff relationships.
- Santos-Aviles died by suicide in 2025 after personal turmoil.
- Multiple GOP lawmakers, including Boebert and Luna, demanded resignation.
As probes continue and the primary looms, Gonzales’ political future hangs in the balance, testing party loyalty and accountability standards. What do you think of the unfolding scandal? Share in the comments.
