Texas Republican Congressman Tony Gonzales, a 45-year-old married father of six, is under federal investigation for allegedly violating House rules by engaging in a sexual relationship with his subordinate, Regina Aviles, 35. The affair, which reportedly began in 2022, culminated in two secret trysts at a cabin in Concan, Texas, in May 2024. Aviles, who served as Gonzales’ regional district director in Uvalde since November 2021, took her own life on September 14, 2025, after dousing herself in gasoline and setting herself ablaze in her backyard on September 13—while intoxicated, according to her autopsy.
Aviles’ husband, Adrian Aviles, discovered the affair in June 2025 after finding incriminating text messages on her phone. He confronted Gonzales and informed the congressman’s staff, leading to a breakdown in the marriage. Adrian moved out with their 8-year-old son, and the couple could not reconcile. In texts obtained by sources, Regina admitted to the affair, writing to a friend: “I had [an] affair with our boss and I’m fine. You will be fine.” Another message confirmed she had slept with her boss. Adrian believes Gonzales initiated the relationship, despite initial professional boundaries, and plans to release text messages between the two to support his claims.
Following the revelation, Gonzales ceased communication with Aviles but did not terminate her employment. Instead, she was placed on paid leave for a month and gradually sidelined upon her return, losing key responsibilities. The scandal has drawn scrutiny under House Rule 23, which prohibits members of Congress from having sexual relations with staff under their supervision. The Office of Congressional Conduct opened an investigation into the matter about four months ago, around October 2025, and federal investigators contacted Adrian in November 2025.
Gonzales, who is seeking re-election and has portrayed himself as a devoted family man in campaign materials, publicly denied the affair in November 2025, stating: “The rumors are completely untruthful.” However, he did not deny it when initially approached in September. Insiders claim the romantic involvement started in 2022, and Aviles appeared in photos with Gonzales and Elon Musk during a 2023 visit to Eagle Pass, Texas. Adrian, represented by attorney Bobby Barrera, is weighing how to release evidence while protecting his son from further trauma.
The case remains open, with no resolution announced, as Gonzales continues his political career amid the ongoing probe.
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