A second former staffer has accused Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) of sending sexually explicit text messages, adding to a growing controversy that has prompted an ethics investigation and intensified scrutiny of the congressman.
The newly reported allegations date back to 2020, when Gonzales was running for Congress. According to published reports, the married lawmaker sent repeated messages to a campaign political director that included requests for nude photos and explicit sexual propositions, despite her refusals.
The second staffer described the messages as persistent and unwelcome, saying they made her uncomfortable and involved repeated attempts to solicit explicit images and sexual encounters over several weeks.
The relationship never became physical.
But the staffer says the messages made her feel pressured — and ultimately pushed her to come forward after learning about a separate scandal involving another aide.
That case involved Regina Santos-Aviles, a district director who had an extramarital relationship with Gonzales in 2024. Santos-Aviles died in 2025 after setting herself on fire. Previously released messages showed Gonzales requesting “sexy” photos and engaging in explicit conversations.
The situation has prompted bipartisan concern in Congress and led to a House Ethics Committee investigation into whether Gonzales violated rules governing relationships between lawmakers and staff.
Amid mounting pressure, Gonzales has announced he will not seek reelection in 2026.
The decision follows a growing number of Republican lawmakers calling for his resignation, citing the seriousness of the allegations.
Gonzales has acknowledged his relationship with Santos-Aviles as a “mistake” but has disputed some of the claims, at times describing them as politically motivated.
The emergence of additional allegations has raised broader questions about workplace boundaries, power dynamics, and enforcement of congressional ethics rules.
The case also highlights distinctions between campaign staff and official congressional employees, as different rules may apply depending on employment status.
The ethics investigation remains ongoing. Gonzales has said he intends to serve the remainder of his term, which ends in January 2027.
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