Before we jump to the defense of the county clerk here, we might want to ask ourselves if we really want to open a can of worms like this. Would anyone here want to concede that an avowed pacifist (a Quaker, for example) in an official government capacity can refuse to process paperwork for legally owned firearms?
Whatever kind of “process paperwork” for firearms do you expect a government official to handle?
There are background checks and if you pass that they issue a license in order to carry around here.
I understand your point: rule of law. However, there comes a time for civil disobedience.
These times warrant it. And those who stand up need to be supported and celebrated as heroes. They need to become our Rosa Parks.
It would be a big mistake, IMHO, to kowtow now or to be cowed into silence and acquiescence.