AUSTIN, Texas — The state Capitol in Austin hosts the Texas Legislative Session every two years, and the 89th Texas Legislative Session kicked off on Tuesday with many hot-button issues, most notably school vouchers.
It was also marked by a Dallas state representative beginning of a new chapter in his life. Surrounded by family, friends, colleagues and supporters, Texas Rep. Venton Jones (D-Dallas) got down on one knee and proposed to his longtime partner, Gregory Scott Jr.
Jones represents Texas House District 100, which covers central Dallas and parts of downtown Dallas. Jones was recently elected as Texas House Democratic Caucus Whip and Vice-Chair of the Texas LGBTQ Caucus. He is also one of the first Black gay men to serve in the Texas Legislature, according to a press release from Jones’ office.
ENGAGED.State Rep. @VentonJonesTX, a Dallas Democrat, just proposed to his longtime partner, Gregory Scott, Jr. moments after being sworn in. Jones popped the question when the House went into recess. #txlegepic.twitter.com/4nD0EVAWw9
— Jason Whitely (@JasonWhitely) January 14, 2025
“Today, I took a renewed oath to serve my community with courage, conviction, and love. I made a promise to the person who has stood beside me through every step of this journey,” said Rep. Jones. “In a time when our love and our very existence are challenged, often in the halls of this very building, this moment is a reminder that love conquers all. Gregory and I stand as proof that progress is unstoppable, and no amount of hate can erase the truth of who we are.”
The couple said they plan to announce more details about their engagement in the coming weeks.
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