The House Ethics Committee has initiated a formal investigation into Representative Tony Gonzales, a Republican from Texas, over serious allegations of sexual misconduct and discriminatory behavior towards a staffer in his congressional office. The probe was announced on Wednesday, just as Gonzales is embroiled in a challenging 12-week runoff for the Republican nomination for his seat.

According to the committee's statement, there are claims that Gonzales "engaged in sexual misconduct towards an individual employed in his congressional office" and exhibited "unfair discrimination by dispensing special favors or privileges." This comes at a crucial time as he faces a tight race against Brandon Herrera in the May 23 runoff, having not secured a majority in the latest election returns.

Gonzales has firmly denied any wrongdoing and has resisted mounting pressure from within his party to resign. The controversy deepened following revelations of his alleged involvement with a former staffer, Regina Santos-Aviles, who tragically died by suicide in 2025 after setting herself on fire.

Details of the alleged misconduct have surfaced, including accusations that Gonzales pursued a sexual relationship with Santos-Aviles and pressured her into sending explicit photos. These allegations are supported by text messages reported by the San Antonio Express-News, although these texts have not been independently verified by POLITICO.

The House has clear rules against members engaging in sexual relationships or making unwelcome sexual advances towards their staffers, placing Gonzales's actions under scrutiny. House Speaker Mike Johnson has emphasized the importance of due process and indicated that the results of the ongoing election could influence the course of action.

The Ethics Committee, known for its secretive deliberations, may take months or even years to conclude its investigation. Past cases, such as the inquiry into Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's acceptance of gifts and Rep. Mike Kelly’s stock trade investigation, have also seen extended periods of investigation before reaching a conclusion.

As the committee proceeds with its investigation, the political and personal future of Rep. Gonzales hangs in the balance, with the implications of the probe likely to resonate beyond his immediate career to touch on broader issues of conduct and accountability within the House of Representatives.

*Meredith Lee Hill contributed to this report.*