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Allegations Surface Against Rep. Gonzales Linked to Aide's Tragic Death

KVIA•Monday, February 23, 2026 at 10:29 PM•Texas Tribune

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U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales is facing serious allegations after text messages revealed he solicited explicit photos from his aide, Regina Santos-Aviles, who tragically died by suicide in September 2025. Santos-Aviles reportedly set herself on fire amid personal turmoil, including her husband's affair with her best friend. The texts, released by her husband, suggest Gonzales pursued an inappropriate relationship despite House rules prohibiting such conduct. As Gonzales prepares for a challenging reelection campaign, his opponent Brandon Herrera has criticized him for the alleged affair and its consequences, calling for accountability. The situation raises significant concerns about workplace ethics and the impact of personal relationships on professional environments.

Key Details: • Gonzales allegedly solicited explicit photos from Santos-Aviles in May 2024. • Santos-Aviles died by self-immolation in September 2025, leaving behind an 8-year-old son. • Gonzales is currently facing a tough reelection campaign against Brandon Herrera. • House rules prohibit relationships between lawmakers and their staff, which Gonzales is accused of violating.

politics accountability suicide affair workplace-ethics

People & Organizations

San AntonioUvaldeTony GonzalesBrandon HerreraRegina Santos-AvilesAdrian Aviles

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