Representative Lauren Boebert (R-CO) has called for the resignation of fellow Republican Representative Tony Gonzales (R-TX) following the revelation of inappropriate text messages he allegedly sent to Regina Santos-Aviles, a former staffer who tragically took her own life by self-immolation in September. The messages, reported by 24sight News, included requests for “sexy pics” and graphic fantasies that raised ethical concerns.
The emergence of these messages comes shortly after another former employee of Gonzales claimed that Santos-Aviles had confessed to an affair, which had left her battling depression after her husband found out. This individual claimed that Gonzales abruptly ended the relationship, which may have contributed to Santos-Aviles’s mental struggles. The situation has been exacerbated by the former staffer’s sharing of texts that support these claims.
In response to the allegations, Gonzales has vehemently denied having an affair with Santos-Aviles, attributing the accusations to his primary opponent and accusing him of exploiting the tragic circumstances for political gain. Gonzales emphasized that Santos-Aviles had positively impacted the community and that it is disheartening to see her name used for political purposes, particularly as early voting commences.
Boebert’s demand for Gonzales’s resignation is particularly striking within the context of the current political landscape, as the House of Representatives operates with a historically slim Republican majority. Should Gonzales resign, it would further narrow the Republican margin to 217-214, with potential implications for party unity and legislative progress, especially as some Republicans have shown willingness to align with Democrats on various issues.
This emerging scandal reflects ongoing challenges within the Republican Party, as personal misconduct allegations continue to threaten party cohesion and focus on legislative objectives.