Rep. Tony Gonzales acknowledges affair with former aide who died
Key Points:
- Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas admitted to having an affair with his aide, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who later died by suicide after setting herself on fire.
- The House Ethics Committee announced it is launching an investigation into Gonzales for potential sexual misconduct and unfair favoritism toward an employee under his supervision.
- Gonzales expressed remorse, saying he reconciled with his wife and accepted responsibility, while denying any involvement in Santos-Aviles’ death.
- Despite calls from some Republicans for his resignation, Gonzales stated he will not step down and believes he can continue to serve effectively.
- Santos-Aviles’ husband reportedly learned of the affair prior to her death, which the medical examiner ruled a suicide.