Georgia state lawmaker comes out as gay

The state of Georgia now has three openly gay lawmakers in their legislature.

State representative, Rashad Taylor (D-Atlanta), called a press conference this morning at the offices of Georgia Equality to formally come out after Georgia state lawmakers received emails accusing Taylor of being disingenuous about his orientation. According to the Georgia Voice, Taylor is the first openly gay male in the legislature, joining Rep. Simone Bell (D-Atlanta) and Rep. Karla Drenner (D-Avondale Estates).

In his statement, Rep. Taylor said that despite being forced to come out, he is relieved to be coming out, finally. “I feel really good. My heart is as ease,” The Voice reported. “Tonight’s sleep will probably be the best sleep I’ve had in 12 or 13 years.”

With his mother at his side, Rep. Taylor fielded questions from reporters who questioned his political viability now that he is an openly gay lawmaker in a potentially socially conservative district.

“I am the same Rashad Taylor that was on the ballot in 2008 and 2010. My positions won’t change.”

For more, check out the story at the Georgia Voice.