I didn't say that one's religious principles can transcend the law. However, the RFRA, which is the law of the land, passed by a bipartisan legislature and signed by a Democratic president, does state that "Government shall not substantially burden a person’s exercise of religion even if the burden results from a rule of general applicability." As a liberal, I think that makes sense, and I'm not really sure it's worth it to force conservative bakers to sell cakes for gay weddings. The principle of religious freedom means a lot to me, as it's one of the hallmarks of the enlightenment and liberal values, and it really pains me to see so many people who call themselves "progressive" appear so willing to hem that in. I can see it for some issues, like housing discrimination, but cakes? As for your other point, obviously a government official must do her job. If she can't, she should resign. The courts ruled as much.