U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales (R-San Antonio) has vehemently denounced certain right-wing members of his party, labeling them as ‘scumbags’ and ‘Klan’ members due to their opposition to billions in foreign aid for U.S. allies. In a scathing attack, Gonzales specifically targeted Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Florida), accusing him of paying minors for sex, and Rep. Bob Good (R-Virginia), branding him as a ‘known neo-Nazi.’
Gonzales made these remarks in response to several Republican members voting against their party’s leadership on military and civilian aid packages for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The House Freedom Caucus contended that Congress should not approve these bills, which would provide over $90 billion in assistance to U.S. allies, until more robust border security measures are implemented on the U.S.-Mexico border. Despite their opposition, the foreign aid packages garnered substantial bipartisan support and were ultimately passed by the House.
Gonzales has a history of clashes with the House Republican conference’s right wing. He was previously labeled as anti-American and un-Christian by U.S. Rep. Chip Roy (R-Austin) and was the sole Republican to vote against a set of House rules negotiated between former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and hardline Republicans. Roy’s border bill, which became a foundation for a bill that passed with full Republican support last year, was also opposed by Gonzales.
Gonzales’ attack on Good, who chairs the House Freedom Caucus, drew a swift response from the group’s members. Rep. Eli Crane (R-Arizona) condemned Gonzales’ insinuations that other members were Klansmen as ‘pathetic’ and endorsed Herrera in the same post. Good himself stated that it was unsurprising for a ‘liberal RINO’ who votes like a Democrat to resort to accusations of racism.
Herrera, who has gained support from Gaetz and is running against Gonzales in the primary election, dismissed Gonzales’ comments as an act of desperation. The Texas Republican Party previously censured Gonzales for his opposition to Roy’s border bill and the rules package, as well as his support for gun safety legislation and same-sex marriage protection.
Despite criticism from the right, Gonzales remains a competitive candidate with a strong fundraising operation. He outpaced Herrera in fundraising during the first quarter of the year and has forged solid relationships with Republican leadership, corporate interests, moderate Republican donors, and bipartisan interest groups. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee, which supports members of both parties on Israel-related issues, has consistently backed Gonzales.
While attacking a fellow Republican member, including endorsing a primary challenger, was historically rare in the party, Gaetz’s support for Herrera and the censure motion from the Texas GOP provided some cover for other Republicans to endorse Gonzales’ challengers. Herrera has raised concerns among fellow Republicans due to his provocative humor on his YouTube channel and podcast appearances, which have included quips about veteran suicide, the Holocaust, and child abuse. He has defended his comments as attempts to lighten heavy topics through humor and has denied being a ‘big fan of fascism.’
Despite facing backlash from the right, Gonzales maintains a strong candidacy, supported by a formidable fundraising operation and relationships with key political players. The outcome of the primary election between Gonzales and Herrera, who has faced criticism for his edgy humor, remains to be seen.
