Politicians have plenty of skeletons in their closets. But this one may take the cake.
And now lurid details of this Congressman’s alleged affair could end his career.
Aide’s Fatal Act Under Scrutiny
Regina Santos-Aviles, a 35-year-old congressional aide serving as Uvalde regional director for Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas), died on September 14, after setting herself on fire outside her Uvalde, Texas, home.
Authorities reported that Santos-Aviles doused herself with gasoline and ignited the fire, succumbing to her injuries the following day at a local hospital. She leaves behind an 8-year-old son.
The Daily Mail reported allegations from unnamed sources claiming Santos-Aviles was involved in a romantic relationship with Gonzales, a married congressman, during her tenure on his staff.
The sources stated her estranged husband, Adrian Aviles, with whom she shared custody, was aware of the alleged affair. Uvalde police, citing surveillance footage, confirmed Santos-Aviles was alone at the time of the incident. The Texas Department of Public Safety is investigating, with autopsy results still pending.
Family Denies Affair Claims
Nora Gonzales, the mother of Santos-Aviles, denied the allegations of an affair with Rep. Gonzales, calling them “completely false” and stating they have “no merit.”
She reported hearing her daughter’s final words to paramedics, “I don’t want to die,” as they attempted to treat her severe burns.
Nora Gonzales described Santos-Aviles as a dedicated mother and professional who previously served as executive director of the Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce before joining Gonzales’ staff in 2021.
The family noted her recent separation from Aviles as a significant personal challenge and urged the public to focus on her contributions to Uvalde, a community still recovering from the 2022 Robb Elementary School shooting.
Congressman’s Office Faces Questions
Rep. Tony Gonzales, 45, representing Texas’ 23rd District, issued a statement following Santos-Aviles’ death:
“We are all heart-stricken by the recent news. Regina devoted her profession toward making a difference in her community. She will always be remembered for her passion toward Uvalde and helping the community become a better place.”
His office did not respond to inquiries from The Washington Times regarding the affair allegations, and Gonzales did not attend Santos-Aviles’ funeral on September 25.
The lack of comment has prompted calls for a House Ethics Committee review. Santos-Aviles’ role involved coordinating federal aid and supporting border security initiatives in a district spanning from San Antonio to El Paso. The ongoing investigation continues to draw attention as Uvalde grapples with the loss of a community advocate.
