File photo shows Rep. Tony Gonzales speaking to reporters during a news conference at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 29, 2024. AP Photo
U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson says he will not push Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales to resign over allegations of an affair with a former district staffer who later died by suicide. Johnson described the claims as “very serious” but said investigations should continue before anyone demands that Gonzales step down.
“There are serious accusations, and it must be taken seriously, and I’ve told him he’s got to address that with his constituents and, and he’s in the process of doing that,” Johnson said.
Johnson added that officials in Texas have already launched an investigation. He also noted reports that the Office of Congressional Conduct has reviewed the matter. “I … think as in every case like this, you have to allow the investigations to play out and all the facts to come out,” he said.
Primary Race Adds Pressure
The controversy comes as Gonzales faces a Republican primary election on March 3. He is defending his San Antonio-area seat against challenger Brandon Herrera. Johnson had endorsed Gonzales before the allegations surfaced.
“I endorsed Tony before all these allegations came out. They’re obviously very serious, and I’ve spoken with him and told him he’s got to address that in an appropriate way with his constituents and all of that,” Johnson said earlier.
Gonzales has denied having an affair and has accused others of trying to blackmail him. However, text messages shared by the staffer’s husband show Gonzales sent explicit messages, including a request for a “sexy pic.”
Calls for Resignation Grow
Some Republicans have publicly called on Gonzales to step down. Reps. Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace both urged him to resign. Other party members have suggested he withdraw from the election.
Despite those calls, Johnson has stood firm. He said he believes in letting the process unfold rather than making quick decisions based on accusations alone.
“You know, I’ve been intellectually consistent about this. Whether you’re talking about Republicans or Democrats, you have to let the system play out,” Johnson said. He pointed to past cases where lawmakers faced charges but had not been found guilty. “If the accusation of something is going to be the litmus test for someone being able to continue to serve in the House, you’ll have a lot of people would have to resign or be removed or expelled from Congress.”
Tight Numbers in the House
Johnson also faces practical concerns. Republicans hold one of the smallest majorities in modern House history. With full attendance, leadership can afford to lose only one Republican vote before legislation fails.
Two Republican seats and one Democratic seat currently sit vacant. Special elections will fill those positions later this year. Meanwhile, another Republican lawmaker has signalled he may retire early, which would further narrow the margin.
Several people close to House leadership say party leaders cannot afford to lose members unless circumstances clearly demand it.
Legal Dispute Continues
Attorney Bobby Barrera, who represents the husband of the late staffer, said she confessed to having an affair with Gonzales in June 2024. Gonzales has denied that claim and described the situation as a smear campaign. Barrera rejected Gonzales’ suggestion of blackmail, calling the “assertion of extortion is ridiculous.”
As investigations continue, Johnson has urged patience. For now, Gonzales remains in office while facing scrutiny both from voters and members of his own party.
