Second ex-staffer accuses Texas lawmaker of sexual misconduct

A second former female staffer for Republican Congressman Tony Gonzales has accused him of sending sexually explicit messages. The San Antonio Express-News reported that Gonzales allegedly sent over a dozen requests for nude photos to his former political director over a three-day period in 2020. NBC News confirmed the report, which did not disclose the staffer's name due to policies protecting victims of sexual harassment.

Gonzales, who previously admitted to having an affair with another aide, Regina Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide last year, has faced scrutiny since the House ethics committee announced an investigation into his relationship with Santos-Aviles. The political director described Gonzales's behavior as "sexual bullying," stating, "It’s kind of like dealing with a toddler. I just kept trying to redirect him." Although Gonzales visited her home twice, she clarified that the relationship never became physical.

Despite the allegations, Gonzales intends to serve out his current term, which runs until January 2027, but he has ended his re-election campaign. Following his withdrawal, Brandon Herrera, a gun rights advocate and Gonzales's former opponent, became the Republican nominee for the congressional seat. The former political director decided to come forward after learning about Santos-Aviles’s death, highlighting the ongoing impact of Gonzales's actions on his former staffers.

Gonzales's office did not respond to requests for comment from the Guardian.