U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales (R) announced that he will resign from Congress following mounting pressure from allegations that he had a sexual relationship with a staffer who later died by suicide.
The resignation comes as Gonzales faced a House ethics investigation into his conduct and growing speculation that lawmakers could move toward expulsion. He had already ended his re-election campaign after failing to secure the Republican nomination and being forced into a primary runoff.
In a statement posted to social media, Gonzales framed his departure as a personal and spiritual decision.
"There is a season for everything, and God has a plan for us all," wrote Gonzales. "When Congress returns tomorrow, I will file my retirement from office."
There is a season for everything and God has a plan for us all. When Congress returns tomorrow, I will file my retirement from office. It has been my privilege to serve the great people of Texas.
— Rep. Tony Gonzales (@RepTonyGonzales) April 13, 2026
The scandal intensified after Gonzales acknowledged the affair during an interview with a conservative talk show host. His resignation now creates an unexpected vacancy in Texas' 23 Congressional District, a politically competitive seat stretching across a large portion of South and West Texas.
The timing also drew national attention due to U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) announcing his own resignation the same day amid separate misconduct allegations, leaving both parties facing sudden vacancies while Republicans hold a narrow House majority.
Democratic nominee Santos Limon Padilla Stout said the shifting balance of power could increase pressure for quick special elections. Under Texas law, Gov. Greg Abbott will decide when to schedule the election to replace Gonzales.
Republican nominee Brandon Herrera responded to the announcement, saying, "I am glad to see real repercussions for the heinous sexual improprieties that both Tony Gonzales and Eric Swalwell have exhibited in Congress."
Official statement:
I am glad to see real repercussions for the heinous sexual improprieties that both Tony Gonzales and Eric Swalwell have exhibited in Congress. I do however hate that Tony’s actions have left a vacancy for the representation of District 23.
In the meantime,… pic.twitter.com/KHUb746lT0
— Brandon Herrera (@TheAKGuy) April 14, 2026
Herrera added, "I do however hate that Tony's actions have left a vacancy for the representation of District 23."
Gonzales' resignation abruptly ends a turbulent chapter in Texas politics and sets up a high-stakes special election that could carry consequences far beyond South Texas.
