Representative Tony Gonzales is facing new allegations of sexual misconduct following the disclosure of text messages from his initial 2020 congressional campaign. The messages suggest the Texas Republican pursued his own political director with persistent requests for nude photographs and sexual encounters.
The woman, a former Army officer and defense contractor, told the San Antonio Express-News that Gonzales asked her for explicit photos more than a dozen times in June 2020. According to the report, the aide repeatedly declined the requests while continuing her professional duties for the campaign.
In one specific message documented by the newspaper, Gonzales reportedly wrote: "I know what I want and won’t stop until I get it." The report further details explicit text messages describing sexual acts the then-candidate wished to perform.
While the two met at the aide's home twice to discuss campaign strategy, the woman stated that no physical relationship ever occurred. She remained on the staff until Election Day but later severed ties with Gonzales due to political differences.
The former aide chose to come forward following the September 2025 death of Regina Santos-Aviles, a former district staffer who died by suicide. Gonzales previously admitted to having an affair with Santos-Aviles in 2024, a scandal that led him to abandon his re-election bid.
Gonzales, a Navy veteran and father of six, is currently under investigation by the House Ethics Committee for his prior conduct. These new revelations regarding his 2020 campaign activities add a fresh layer of scrutiny to his remaining time in office.
The administration of President Donald Trump and House Republican leadership have not yet issued formal statements regarding the 2020 text messages. Gonzales has not responded to inquiries for comment from the San Antonio Express-News regarding these latest claims.
The disclosure comes as the Republican party navigates a complex political environment in Texas ahead of the 2026 midterm cycle. Investigative efforts into the Congressman's history with staff members are expected to continue as more details of his past conduct emerge.