The House Ethics Committee has voted to begin a formal investigation into Rep. Tony Gonzales, just as the Texas Republican heads into a high-stakes primary runoff that could determine his political future. The ethics announcement comes on the heels of a closely contested Republican primary in which neither Gonzales nor challenger Brandon Herrera secured a majority, triggering a runoff set for late May. The deadline to withdraw from the race is mid-March. The ethics probe, which could stretch on for months or longer, now looms over the 12-week campaign.

Lawmakers announced the creation of an investigative subcommittee to examine claims that Gonzales “engaged in sexual misconduct towards an individual employed in his congressional office” and/or “discriminated unfairly by dispensing special favors or privileges.” The panel will assess whether he violated House rules or any other applicable standards of conduct (House rules strictly prohibit members from pursuing sexual relationships or making unwelcome advances toward staff.).

The inquiry follows reports that Gonzales allegedly had a relationship with a former staff member, Regina Santos-Aviles, and sent her explicit messages via text that were published by the San Antonio Express-News but have not been independently verified by several national outlets. Santos-Aviles died by suicide last year after setting herself on fire.

Gonzales has denied wrongdoing and has resisted calls from some fellow Republicans to step aside. In a statement responding to the investigation, he said, “I welcome the opportunity to present all the facts to the committee.” In earlier remarks, he added, “There will be an opportunity for all the details and facts to come out,” and insisted that what has been reported publicly does not tell the full story.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has urged patience, emphasizing that Gonzales deserves due process. “You know I’ve always been consistent: We allow due process and investigations to play out,” Johnson said when asked whether he would endorse the congressman in the runoff. He has also encouraged Gonzales to publicly address the allegations, noting that voters have already weighed in by forcing a second round.

Ethics Committee proceedings are typically confidential and often slow-moving. Past investigations have taken years to conclude, with findings sometimes resulting only in letters of reproval rather than harsher discipline. For Gonzales, however, the investigation’s launch adds fresh uncertainty to an already contentious contest — one that will determine whether he secures another term representing his South Texas district.

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