US congressman refuses to resign after allegations of affair with staffer
The Guardian • • general
Key Points:
- US Congressman Tony Gonzales faces allegations of an affair with a former staffer, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who later died by suicide, amid reports of sexually explicit texts pressuring her for intimate photos and a sexual relationship.
- Despite mounting calls from fellow Republicans, including Thomas Massie, Lauren Boebert, and Nancy Mace, for his immediate resignation, Gonzales has refused to step down, asserting that all facts have not yet emerged.
- House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the need for a full investigation before any resignation, while Donald Trump has endorsed Gonzales for re-election.
- Gonzales is currently embroiled in a contentious primary race, facing strong opposition from Brandon Herrera, with the scandal potentially jeopardizing his seat
