Republicans Say GOP Can't Afford to Lose Rep. Tony Gonzales Despite Affair Scandal: "It's a Game of Numbers and We're in a Losing Battle"

The controversy surrounding U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales over an alleged affair with an aide who later committed suicide has stirred unrest within the Republican Party, with several officials now urging him to step aside.

Gonzales has said he has no intention of resigning over allegations that he had an affair with a former aide who later died by suicide. "I will not resign, I work every day for the people of Texas," he said, adding that the public does not know "all the facts" tied to the accusations.

The fallout has put Gonzales in a tough political position as he seeks reelection in November. As of this week, he trails GOP primary challenger Brandon Herrera in Texas' 23rd Congressional District by more than 20 points. A recent report also indicated that at least four House Republicans have privately called on Gonzales either to resign or to forgo a reelection bid while the investigation unfolds.

Even as some GOP colleagues push for his resignation, a new MS NOW report argues that stepping down could be far more complicated in the current political climate, where both parties are holding on to every vote they can to advance their agendas.

One House Republican, speaking anonymously to the outlet, said the GOP can afford to lose only one member on a party-line vote.

"Leadership right now is scrambling just to do the normal business of the day," the lawmaker said.

Another Republican quoted by MS NOW said losing a member would weaken the party at a pivotal moment in an election year.

"It's a game of numbers and we're in a losing battle," the lawmaker said. "Anyone who is remotely considering leaving right now would be able to use that as an incredible bargaining chip."

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La, has publicly described the allegations against Gonzales as "very serious" but has urged patience as the investigation continues.

"If the accusation of something is going to be the litmus test for someone being able to continue to serve in the House, a lot of people would have to resign or be removed or expelled from Congress. So I think you have to allow this to play out. I think it is very serious. The allegations are clearly very serious and Tony Gonzales will address it," Johnson said.

When asked by MS NOW whether the slim Republican majority factored into his decision not to call for Gonzales' resignation, Johnson responded with an emphatic "no." Republicans currently hold 218 seats, compared with 214 for Democrats.

While some Republicans have publicly urged Gonzales to step down, others have defended him. Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, told reporters his colleague should not be forced out because he has not been indicted on any criminal charges. He added that a resignation could hand control of the chamber to Democrats.

"If he does that, then you got to give the gavel to Hakeem Jeffries," Nehls said Wednesday. "I wouldn't do that for any reason."