Texas, predictably, is not going softly into that good marriage equality night with several clerks defying federal law and refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples.
Russ Towers, proably the only openly gay county clerk in all of Texas, has issued four marriage licenses to gay couples since the historic ruling on June 26 -- including three on the very first day.
Oh, and he's also, like, really jacked.
Like, really.
"For me, it was very surreal, because it was something that I never thought that I would see in my lifetime," the 39-year-old told the Texas Observer, "but to be on the other side of the counter, to be the one issuing, made it especially special for me. It was probably one of the proudest moments and days that I've ever had professionally."
Clerks refusing to issue marriage licenses are doing so with the full blessing of Attorney General Ken Paxton, who issued an opinion that clerks could pull that dick move, though they risk litigation. According to Towers, those clerks are playing with fire.
"What they didn't tell those clerks is that your bond may not cover you, and can also be personally liable for official oppression," he said.
Towers -- a Paris, Texas native which may explain why he's also a Republican -- was appointed Lamar County clerk on April 1 after serving seven years as the county's appointed elections administrator. He's been out since 1997 and has no plans on going back into the closet, even if it costs him re-election in 2016.
"I'm not about to go changing who I am or altering who I am or try to hide who I am in order to just win an election," Towers said. "I am out, and nothing will ever change that."
Check out some more photos of Texas' hottest openly gay public servant Russ Towers, courtesy of social media stalking:
Russ Towers -- issuing marriage licenses and flawless gym selfies on the regular.
Les Fabian Brathwaite -- might be able to overlook the Republican thing.
