Disgraced Texas GOP Rep. Ends Reelection Bid After Affair Reveal

Texas Republican Congressman Tony Gonzales has dropped out of his reelection campaign after admitting to an affair with a former staff member, shaking up the state's political landscape.

Gonzales, who has represented Texas's 23rd congressional district since 2021, announced his withdrawal from the race in a late-night statement on Thursday. The GOP lawmaker cited the personal scandal as the reason for his abrupt decision, saying he could no longer effectively serve his constituents.

The affair revelation is a major blow to Gonzales, who had been favored to win reelection in the traditionally Republican-leaning district. His exit leaves the party scrambling to find a replacement candidate ahead of the 2024 election cycle.