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Tony Gonzales Refutes Affair Claims Amid Controversy Before Primary Election

KVIA•Friday, February 20, 2026 at 3:08 PM•CNN Newsource

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U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales is facing allegations of having an affair with a former aide, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who tragically died by suicide last September. These claims have resurfaced just before the March 3 GOP primary, with Gonzales asserting that he is being blackmailed and that the allegations are politically motivated by his opponent, Brandon Herrera. Santos-Aviles’ husband, Adrian Aviles, has indicated that she confessed to the affair and showed him text messages detailing it. Gonzales has publicly denied the affair and criticized Herrera for exploiting the situation for political gain. The controversy raises questions about accountability and the impact of personal scandals in political campaigns.

Key Details: • Primary election on March 3, 2024, is approaching. • Allegations involve a former staffer who died by suicide in September 2023. • Gonzales claims he is being blackmailed regarding the affair allegations. • Brandon Herrera is Gonzales' challenger in the GOP primary.

politics gop-primary tony-gonzales brandon-herrera affair-allegations

People & Organizations

Uvalde, TexasTony GonzalesBrandon HerreraRegina Ann Santos-AvilesAdrian AvilesBobby Barrera

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