Texas Rep. Venton Jones Proposes to Partner Gregory Scott Jr. on 1st Day of New Term: ‘A Reminder That Love Conquers All’

Mar. 15, 2025

Venton Jones (left) and Gregory Scott Jr.Photo:Texas House Democratic Caucus

Texas House Democratic Caucus

Texas state representative Venton Jones is celebrating two special milestones — the start of his second term in office and his engagement.

As the new legislative session commenced on Tuesday, Jan. 14, Jones, one of the first Black gay men to serve in the Texas legislature, got down on one knee and proposed to his longtime partner, Gregory Scott Jr., just after being sworn in at the State Capitol in Austin.

Gregory Scott Jr. (left) and Venton Jones kiss after getting engaged.Texas House Democratic Caucus

“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,” the newly elected minority party whip said in a statement.

“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," continued Jones, who serves house district 100. “Gregory and I stand as proof that progress is unstoppable, and no amount of hate can erase the truth of who we are.”

Jones, who also was elected to serve as vice-chair of the Texas LGBTQ Caucus, spent his first term advocating for Black gay men and HIV-positive individuals, as well as equity and inclusion.

Venton Jones proposes to Gregory Scott Jr. as a crowd looks on.Texas House Democratic Caucus

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“Just like I’m working to protect my family, I plan on using my power as the house Democratic caucus whip and vice-chair of the LGBTQ Caucus to protect all Texans,” he said, adding, “Our love symbolizes resilience and our story reminds us that love can and will always overcome hate.”

source: people.com