Texas Republican Representative Tony Gonzales announced he will not seek re-election, saying he plans to finish his current term in Congress after facing mounting political pressure tied to a personal scandal.

In a statement, Gonzales reflected on his years of service in both the military and Congress while confirming his decision to step away from future campaigns.

“At 18, I swore an oath to defend our nation against all enemies, foreign and domestic. During my 20 years in the military and three terms in Congress, I have fought for that cause with absolute dedication to the country that I love,” Gonzales said.

He added that his philosophy in public service has been to “do as much as you can, and always fight for the greater good.”

The announcement follows controversy involving Gonzales’ admission of an affair with a former staffer, which drew scrutiny in Washington and triggered a House Ethics Committee review. The situation intensified after the staffer later died by suicide, increasing pressure on the congressman from political allies and critics alike.

After “deep reflection” and discussions with his family, Gonzales said he decided not to pursue another term while pledging to continue serving his constituents through the end of his current term.

“Through the rest of my term, I will continue fighting for my constituents, for whom I am eternally grateful,” he said, closing the statement with the message: “God has a plan for all of us.”

Gonzales currently represents Texas's 23rd congressional district, a sprawling border district that stretches across parts of western and southern Texas.

Following his decision not to run again, gun rights activist and YouTuber Brandon Herrera is now set to become the Republican nominee for the seat in the upcoming election.