Same-Sex Couple Denied Marriage License for Third Time in Kentucky

A Kentucky county clerk denied a marriage license to a same-sex couple for the third time on August 27, one day after federal court upheld an order saying she must issue the licenses. Kim Davis’ office denied the license to William Smith Jr. and James Yates, which can be seen in this video shot by Smith.

The deputy clerk tells the couple in the video they can deny the licenses until August 31. “They ruled on it and this is the third time,” Yates says. “Why bother with the appeal? They’re not going to follow it.” Smith says that they’re discriminating and hiding behind religion.

The couple told local media they plan to return seeking a marriage license on September 1, but they expect to be rejected again.

Davis has been denying same-sex marriage licenses since the US Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage on June 26. She cites her religious beliefs as to why she will not issue the licenses.

Davis does not appear in the video, and local media reported she stayed in her office during Smith and Yates’ visit. ABC reported the office was closed around noon and there was a sign posted on the door that they were experiencing computer upgrades. Credit: YouTube/Will Smith