POLITICS

Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales Announces Retirement Amid Scandal

PUBLISHED Apr 13, 2026, 11:37 PM ET

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Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales Announces Retirement Amid Scandal

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Left 9%

Center 82%

Right 9%

Sources: 11

San Antonio — Republican U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales announced Monday he will retire from Congress as lawmakers prepare to return to Washington. Gonzales acknowledged earlier this year that he had an affair with a former staff member; that staffer later died in 2025 and his admission prompted scrutiny. The retirement follows initiation of a House Ethics Committee investigation and bipartisan calls for expulsion, and came hours after related developments involving another House member this week. Gonzales said he will file his retirement when Congress returns, leaving the 23rd District seat open and prompting plans for succession.

By James Porter | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Earlier in 2025 Gonzales admitted to an affair with a staff member.
The staffer later died by suicide in 2025, reported in subsequent coverage.
The House Ethics Committee opened an investigation into Gonzales's conduct.
Republican leaders called on Gonzales not to seek reelection amid scrutiny.
On Monday Gonzales announced he will file his retirement as Congress returns.

News Intelligence

Gonzales's retirement means a shift in your representation if you're in Texas's 23rd District. It's a chance to influence who fills that seat. Stay informed about the candidates and their platforms.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 9

Who Benefited

The open vacancy will benefit potential candidates, party organizations planning campaigns, and political donors mobilizing resources for a contested race.

Who Impacted

Constituents in Texas's 23rd District experienced reduced continuity of representation and additional political uncertainty during the transition.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 9
Distribution:: Left 9%, Center 82%, Right 9%

Who Benefited

The open vacancy will benefit potential candidates, party organizations planning campaigns, and political donors mobilizing resources for a contested race.

Who Impacted

Constituents in Texas's 23rd District experienced reduced continuity of representation and additional political uncertainty during the transition.