U.S. House Ethics Committee opens investigation into Rep. Tony Gonzales over staffer misconduct allegations

Inquiry opened as Gonzales heads toward a Republican runoff election

The U.S. House Committee on Ethics has opened an investigation into Rep. Tony Gonzales, a Republican whose district includes parts of San Antonio and stretches along the U.S.-Mexico border. The committee said an investigative subcommittee will examine allegations that Gonzales engaged in sexual misconduct toward an individual employed in his congressional office and that he discriminated unfairly by dispensing special favors or privileges.

The committee’s action establishes a formal investigative process that can include interviews, document requests and sworn testimony. The Ethics Committee can ultimately recommend disciplinary action to the full House, but it does not determine criminal liability.

Allegations tied to former staffer who died in 2025

The investigation follows public reporting about Regina Ann “Regi” Santos-Aviles, a former Gonzales staffer who died after a fire-related incident outside her home in Uvalde. Santos-Aviles was 35. Authorities later ruled her death a suicide by self-immolation.

The underlying allegations involve claims of an improper relationship between Gonzales and Santos-Aviles while she worked in his congressional operation. The existence and authenticity of messages cited publicly in recent weeks have not been independently established by this newsroom. Gonzales has denied wrongdoing and has said he will not step down, while also asserting that the full set of facts has not been made public.

What is known about the death investigation

Santos-Aviles was found severely burned on Sept. 13, 2025, and she died the next day, Sept. 14, 2025, after being transported for medical care. Uvalde police and Texas Rangers were involved in investigating the incident in 2025. In November 2025, the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the manner of death a suicide.

Political backdrop: runoff after March 3 primary

The Ethics Committee’s announcement comes one day after the March 3, 2026, Texas Republican primary election, in which Gonzales failed to secure a majority and advanced to a runoff. He is expected to face Brandon Herrera in that runoff.

• The Ethics Committee said the inquiry will focus on alleged workplace misconduct and favoritism-related concerns.

• The investigation is proceeding during an election season, increasing attention to timing, disclosure rules and confidentiality.

• Gonzales has said he intends to continue serving and campaigning while the matter is reviewed.

Ethics investigations can take months and, in many cases, much of the fact-finding remains confidential until a final report or recommendation is issued.

No public finding has been issued by the committee as of March 4, 2026. The investigative subcommittee’s next steps and any timeline for conclusions have not been publicly detailed.