House Ethics Committee Investigates Texas Congressman Amid Runoff Campaign
In a dramatic turn of events following the Republican primary, Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, is now the subject of a formal inquiry by the House Ethics Committee. This investigation was initiated just one day after Gonzales was pushed into a runoff for his congressional seat.
The Ethics Committee has formed a subcommittee to delve into claims that Gonzales “engaged in sexual misconduct towards an individual employed in his congressional office and/or discriminated unfairly by dispensing special favors or privileges.” Further scrutiny has arisen from his party, urging him to consider stepping down after explicit text messages with former employee Regina Santos-Aviles were published by The San Antonio Express-News. NPR has not independently verified these messages.
The tragic suicide of Santos-Aviles last September adds a somber note to the unfolding situation. Gonzales, who has denied any misconduct, did not provide a comment on the ethics investigation at the time of reporting.
According to the House’s code of conduct, relationships of a sexual nature between lawmakers and their staff are prohibited. This code will be a focal point in the ongoing ethics probe, which could extend for several months.
Despite the controversy, Gonzales will face Brandon Herrera in a runoff on May 26, as reported by Texas Public Radio.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., emphasized the importance of due process, stating, “As in every case like this, you have to allow the investigations to play out and all the facts to come out.” He cautioned against using mere accusations as a basis for removing someone from Congress, suggesting it could lead to numerous resignations.
With the Ethics Committee’s investigation still in its early stages, the members of the investigative subcommittee are yet to be announced.
Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, speaks during a House Homeland Security Committee hearing on Feb. 10 in Washington, D.C. Samuel Corum/Getty Images
