WASHINGTON — Texas Republican Representative Tony Gonzales announced Monday his intention to step down from Congress following mounting pressure from both parties for his removal from office.
The congressman had previously revealed he engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a member of his staff who subsequently died by suicide, and had already declared he would not pursue reelection. His retirement announcement followed closely after California Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell announced his own resignation while facing similar allegations of improper conduct.
Leadership within the Republican caucus had previously urged the three-term representative to abandon any reelection plans. Additionally, the House Ethics Committee had launched a formal inquiry into his conduct. Congressional ethics regulations explicitly prohibit lawmakers from maintaining romantic relationships with House employees under their direct authority.
“There is a season for everything and God has a plan for us all,” Gonzales wrote on social media. “When Congress returns tomorrow, I will file my retirement from office.”
The departing congressman expressed gratitude for the opportunity “to serve the great people of Texas” but provided no additional information regarding the timeline for his departure.
