Kim Davis Jailed for Contempt of Court: 'We must defend religious liberty!' answers Gov Mike Huckabee and other Republicans

Kim Davis, the Kentucky clerk who refused to issue marriage licenses to same sex couples, was sent to jail on Thursday, Sept. 3.

CBC News explains that Davis is a devout born-again Apostolic Christian. The Rowan County clerk refused to issue marriage licenses to gay couples because it was against her religious beliefs.

"God's moral laws conflicts with my job duties. You can't be separated from something that's in your heart and in your sold," Davis told US District Judge David Bunning, during her emotional testimony.

Since the Kentucky clerk would not change her mind on the issue, Judge Bunning ruled against her. Davis apparently was not moved by the fines issued to her by the court and stood firm in her resolve. As a result, Judge Bunning had no choice but to place her in jail for contempt.

While most people have rallied against Davis' actions, she has garnered an equal amount of support. According to CNN, several Republicans—including those running for the 2016 Presidential election—have showed their support for Davis and her right to practice her religious beliefs.

One of Davis' supporters is Mike Huckabee, the former Governor of Arkansas. Huckabee has even written a formal request, addressed to President Obama, Attorney General Lynch and Judge Bunning, to release Davis from federal custody.

In addition, people who wish to support Davis can co-sign the request. Huckabee's petition to free Davis can be seen here.

Another Republican fighting for Davis' freedom is Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul. He believes that Judge Bunning's decision has set a bad precedent, which undermines people's rights to practice their religious beliefs freely.

Time explains, however, that the issue of Davis' custody does not revolve around her religious rights, but instead her duties as a clerk.

Davis stated earlier that she did not ask for the clerk position, but Time points out that she did run for it and was elected. As a result, she must fulfill the duties required of her position.

Time explains that it is the responsibility of country clerks to issue certified marriage licenses to couple who have met the legal requirements, as stated under Kentucky law.

The requirements for marriage call for both parties to be over 18 and consenting to marry, or if underage obtaining the permission of parents or guardian. Another requirement is payment for the license, among others.

Since same sex marriage was made legal by the Supreme Court in all 50 US states, Davis and other county clerks are not allowed to refuse marriage licenses to gay couples. It would be a violation of their rights to get married.