Rep. Tony Gonzales Advances to Runoff in Texas 23rd District GOP Primary Republican U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales of Texas' 23rd Congressional District failed to secure a majority in the March 3, 2026, GOP primary, advancing instead to a runoff against challenger Brandon Herrera on May 26. Gonzales, serving his third term since 2021, represents a sprawling South Texas district stretching from San Antonio toward El Paso that leans conservative but includes a significant Hispanic voter base. The primary contest drew intense scrutiny due to allegations that Gonzales had an affair with a former staffer, who reportedly died by suicide last year; Gonzales has categorically denied the claims and refused calls from some GOP colleagues to resign. House Ethics Committee has launched a probe into the matter, which could extend for months. His opponent, Herrera—known online as 'TheAKGuy'—is a prominent Second Amendment advocate, YouTuber, and gun rights influencer who nearly unseated Gonzales in their 2024 runoff by a razor-thin margin of about 400 votes. Herrera capitalized on voter dissatisfaction with Gonzales' record, including votes for gun safety measures post-Uvalde, protections for same-sex and interracial marriages, and backing an independent January 6 probe—positions that prompted the Texas GOP to censure Gonzales in 2023. Despite the controversy, House Speaker Mike Johnson and GOP leadership maintained their endorsements, awaiting voter judgment. The district's dynamics could shift if Hispanic turnout sways amid broader Republican trends. This rematch promises another high-stakes, expensive battle in a cycle where intraparty divisions test party unity. Gonzales led slightly with 41.7% to Herrera's 43.3% as 88% of votes were tallied, per Associated Press reports.

Rep. Tony Gonzales Advances to Runoff in Texas 23rd District GOP Primary

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