Serious allegations have surfaced against U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, a Republican representing Texas’ 23rd Congressional District, following claims by a former staffer that the congressman had a romantic relationship with a married aide who died by suicide in 2025.
The claims, reported by the San Antonio Express-News, include a text message in which the aide, Regina Ann “Regi” Santos-Aviles, allegedly acknowledged having an “affair with our boss.” Gonzales has publicly denied rumors surrounding the situation, calling them “completely untruthful.”
Here is a comprehensive breakdown of the allegations, responses, and confirmed facts.
Who Was Regina Ann “Regi” Santos-Aviles?
Santos-Aviles, 35, served as Gonzales’ regional district director in Uvalde, Texas. She was the mother of an 8-year-old son and had worked closely within the congressman’s district office.
On Sept. 14, 2025, Santos-Aviles died after setting herself on fire outside her Uvalde home. Authorities said surveillance footage showed she was alone when the incident occurred. The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office later ruled her death a suicide by self-immolation. Police reported no evidence of foul play.
The Affair Allegations
A former 24-year-old staffer who worked in Gonzales’ district office told reporters that Santos-Aviles confided in him in 2024 that she and Gonzales were engaged in a romantic relationship. The ex-staffer provided a screenshot of a text message allegedly sent by Santos-Aviles on April 27, 2025, stating:
“I had (sic) affair with our boss and I’m fine. You will be fine.”
The newspaper reported that the phone number in the text thread was verified as belonging to Santos-Aviles.
The former staffer described the alleged relationship as “common knowledge” among some office personnel. He claimed operations in the Uvalde office shifted after Santos-Aviles’ husband discovered the relationship during the 2024 election cycle.
Bobby Barrera, attorney for Santos-Aviles’ husband, said the alleged affair “was not a secret among the staff,” but added that he does not believe it caused her death.
Gonzales’ Response
Gonzales has denied wrongdoing.
Speaking at the Texas Tribune Festival in November, he addressed rumors indirectly:
“People throwing rocks at me, saying I’m doing nasty things — I totally get that. But the rumors are completely untruthful.”
A spokesperson previously criticized media coverage as politically motivated. Gonzales, who has received an endorsement from Donald Trump, is currently seeking reelection in a contested Republican primary.
He faces challengers including Brandon Herrera, Quico Canseco, and Keith Barton.
Timeline of Key Events
- May 2024: Gonzales narrowly wins a GOP primary runoff.
- May 29, 2024: According to the ex-staffer, Santos-Aviles’ husband discovered messages exposing the alleged affair.
- Summer 2025: Santos-Aviles reportedly began antidepressant treatment, according to the former staffer.
- August 2025: Alleged prior suicide attempt (not independently confirmed by authorities).
- Sept. 14, 2025: Santos-Aviles dies following self-immolation.
- November 2025: Gonzales publicly calls rumors “completely untruthful.”
Political Fallout
The allegations have surfaced during a heated election cycle. Gonzales’ primary challengers and political commentators have amplified speculation online.
Right-wing influencer Laura Loomer previewed what she described as a “career ending” report on social media. Brandon Herrera responded publicly that he was “glad the truth is finally coming to light.”
The former staffer who shared the allegations resigned last month and now works for two Democratic campaigns in Los Angeles. He stated he has not been paid or promised compensation for coming forward.
What Authorities Have Confirmed
Law enforcement agencies have confirmed:
- Santos-Aviles was alone when the fire began.
- There was no evidence of foul play.
- The official cause of death was suicide.
There has been no public confirmation from authorities linking her death to any workplace or personal relationship.
A Family’s Grief
At her funeral in Uvalde, Santos-Aviles’ husband delivered an emotional eulogy, describing her as:
“My soulmate, best friend, and the love of my life.”
He emphasized that while their marriage had experienced difficulties, he does not believe the alleged relationship played a role in her death.
Gonzales did not attend the funeral.
Why This Story Is Drawing National Attention
This case intersects politics, personal tragedy, and public accountability — all in the middle of a contested congressional race.
Key reasons for widespread attention:
- Allegations involving a sitting member of Congress
- Documentary evidence in the form of text messages
- A confirmed suicide with high emotional impact
- Political implications during a primary election
However, it is critical to separate verified facts from allegations and recognize that multiple aspects remain disputed.
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help
If you are in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the United States. You can also text TALK to 741741 to connect with the Crisis Text Line. Help is available 24/7.
This is an ongoing story. As more verified information emerges, it will further clarify the circumstances surrounding the allegations and the tragic loss of Regina Ann “Regi” Santos-Aviles.
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