U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales has found himself at the center of controversy following revelations of a romantic relationship with his former aide, Regina Ann “Regi” Santos-Aviles. Tragically, Santos-Aviles died last year in a suicide by self-immolation outside her Uvalde home, an incident that has drawn significant media attention and raised questions about the impact of their affair.
A former staff member from Gonzales’ district office disclosed that Santos-Aviles disclosed to him in 2024 that she was involved in an affair with her boss. This relationship reportedly triggered a downward spiral into depression for Santos-Aviles, particularly after her husband became aware of the affair and Gonzales ceased contact with her. The staff member provided a screenshot of a text message in which Santos-Aviles acknowledged the relationship.
In the wake of her tragic death on September 14, 2025, the former staffer expressed concern over Santos-Aviles’ well-being to Gonzales’ district director months before her passing. He described Santos-Aviles as his “best friend” and expressed dismay that her struggles were not adequately addressed. Santos-Aviles, who served as Gonzales’ regional district director, was a 35-year-old mother of an 8-year-old son and was married at the time of the affair.
Reports indicate that the affair had become an open secret among staff, with claims from Santos-Aviles’ husband’s attorney affirming its common knowledge within the office. Despite the relationship being widely discussed, the lawyer emphasized that he does not believe it influenced her tragic decision to end her life. Authorities have confirmed there was no evidence of foul play involved in Santos-Aviles’ death.
Gonzales, who is currently running for reelection amidst a contested primary, has faced ongoing scrutiny regarding the affair. Though he has dismissed rumors surrounding the relationship and the circumstances leading to Santos-Aviles’ death as untruthful, he recently faced backlash during a Texas Tribune Festival interview when questioned about her demise, which he described as a “very tragic situation.”
As investigations continue into the impacts of mental health on relationships, the story of Santos-Aviles serves as a poignant reminder of the potential consequences of personal struggles, particularly in high-pressure professional environments. In the wake of her passing, the former staffer expressed a sense of loss and urgency about mental health awareness, noting that Santos-Aviles’ distress had increased in the months leading to her death.
With Gonzales facing challengers in the upcoming primary, the implications of these revelations may impact his political future. Meanwhile, the community and families involved are navigating a painful chapter marked by loss and reflection.
This tragic narrative underscores the importance of mental health support in both personal and professional realms, highlighting the necessity for open dialogues about emotional well-being.