Tony Gonzales, a Texas congressman seeking reelection, is accused of having a romantic relationship with an aide who died by suicide last year. Regina Santos-Aviles, 35, his regional district director in Uvalde, set herself on fire outside her home on September 14, 2025. A former staffer, who worked closely with Santos-Aviles, claims she told him they had an affair in 2024 and that she spiraled into depression after her husband discovered it and Gonzales abruptly ended the relationship.

The staffer shared a text message from Santos-Aviles acknowledging the affair. He also warned Gonzales' district director months before her death that he was concerned about her well-being. Santos-Aviles' husband, Adrian Aviles, stated the affair was an "open secret" among staff but believes it did not cause her death.

Authorities found no evidence of foul play. The staffer resigned in frustration, feeling he could no longer represent Gonzales' message after Santos-Aviles' death. Gonzales has avoided detailed questions about the relationship, calling the rumors "completely untruthful" in November.

The affair reportedly became known to staff during the 2024 campaign, with Gonzales and Santos-Aviles meeting at his family's rental cabin. Santos-Aviles was the mother of an 8-year-old boy.