"After deep reflection and with the support of my loving family, I have decided not to seek re-election. We have encouraged him to address these very serious allegations directly with his constituents and his colleagues. In the meantime, Leadership has asked Congressman Gonzales to withdraw from his race for reelection."
"House Speaker Mike Johnson and the GOP leadership earlier Thursday had called on Gonzales to withdraw from reelection after Gonzales, a day earlier, acknowledged a relationship that has upturned the political world in his home state and in Washington."
Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas announced his withdrawal from reelection after admitting to an affair with a former staff member who subsequently died by suicide. The decision came after intense pressure from House GOP leadership, including Speaker Mike Johnson and other senior Republicans, who called for him to step aside. Gonzales stated he would complete his current congressional term despite withdrawing from the race. The situation triggered a House Ethics Committee investigation into his conduct. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna introduced resolutions seeking to remove Gonzales from committee assignments and censure him. His withdrawal clears the field in what had become a competitive May runoff race against gun manufacturer Brandon Herrera.
Read at www.npr.org
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