Who is Kim Davis? Supreme Court Denies Appeal to Overturn Same-Sex Marriage Ruling
The U.S. Supreme Court has officially declined to hear an appeal from Kim Davis, the former Kentucky county clerk who sought to overturn the landmark 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. The decision, issued without comment, leaves the ruling intact and signals continued stability for LGBTQ rights in the United States.
Ms. Davis became known for her religious opposition post-2015, resulting in five nights in jail for court order defiance.
David Ermold and David Moore, a couple denied a license, successfully sued Davis, leading to a $360,000 damage award.
Who is Kim Davis? Supreme Court Denies Appeal
Kim Davis gained national attention in 2015 when she refused to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples due to her religious beliefs. Her defiance of a federal court order led to a six-day jail sentence for contempt of court.
Couples denied licenses, including David Moore and David Ermold, filed a lawsuit resulting in Davis being ordered to pay $100,000 in damages and $260,000 in attorney’s fees.
The Appeal
Represented by Liberty Counsel, Kim Davis appeal primarily focused on her First Amendment rights, arguing that her religious beliefs should protect her from liability. She sought for the Supreme Court to:
- Reconsider her damages from the lawsuit.
- Reevaluate aspects of her treatment under federal law.
Though she indirectly challenged the Obergefell ruling, the Court’s decision largely kept the focus on her liability rather than overturning same-sex marriage.
Supreme Court Decision
The Supreme Court on Monday declined to take the case, with no dissents or explanation provided. Notably:
Four out of the nine justices needed to support a review of Ms. Davis’s case, a step legal experts did not anticipate.
Justice Clarence Thomas had previously suggested that Obergefell should be reconsidered, but no other justices joined his opinion.
Justice Samuel Alito has indicated he does not advocate overturning Obergefell, showing a nuanced approach among the justices.
This refusal indicates a continued acceptance of the 2015 ruling, even under the Court’s conservative majority.
Reactions and Implications
LGBTQ Advocates: The decision was met with relief and reassurance, affirming constitutional protections for same-sex couples.
Public Opinion: Polls continue to show broad support for same-sex marriage, and federal legislation in 2022 required recognition of these marriages across all states.
Legal Experts: Despite some concerns about conservative justices, the Court’s rejection suggests a reluctance to revisit Obergefell, indicating a measure of stability for LGBTQ rights.
Mary Bonauto, the lawyer who argued Obergefell, stated:
“Today, millions of Americans can breathe a sigh of relief for their families. All families deserve equal rights under the law.”
Meanwhile, Liberty Counsel has vowed to continue efforts to challenge Obergefell, asserting that the decision was “egregiously wrong from the start.”
Why This Matters
The Supreme Court’s refusal to hear Kim Davis appeal ensures that same-sex marriage remains legally protected nationwide, a critical reassurance for LGBTQ Americans and their families.
The ruling also demonstrates a balance among the justices—while some have advocated for religious rights expansions, there is continued respect for established constitutional protections. This nuanced approach signals that the Court may protect LGBTQ rights even amid politically sensitive cases.
Key Takeaways
The Supreme Court declined Kim Davis appeal without explanation.
The Obergefell v. Hodges ruling (2015) remains intact.
The decision reaffirms the constitutional rights of same-sex couples.
Justice Clarence Thomas suggested reconsideration, but no other justices joined him.
Justice Samuel Alito indicated he is not advocating to overturn Obergefell, showing a cautious approach.
LGBTQ advocates expressed relief, seeing this as stability for LGBTQ rights despite conservative court composition.
Current Status and Statistics
As of 2025, there are 823,000 married same-sex couples in the U.S., 591,000 of whom married after Obergefell.
The Supreme Court docketed Davis v. Ermold for discussion but ultimately did not take up the case.
FAQs
What is same-sex marriage?
It’s the legally or socially recognized marriage between two people of the same gender.
When was same-sex marriage legalized in the United States?
Same-sex marriage was legalized across the entire United States on June 26, 2015, following the Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges.
What was the significance of the Obergefell v. Hodges case?
This landmark Supreme Court case ruled that same-sex marriage is a constitutional right under the 14th Amendment, thereby requiring all states to permit and recognize such marriages.
What are some common arguments in favor of same-sex marriage?
Arguments in favor include equality and civil rights, the recognition of love between individuals, and legal and economic benefits that married couples receive.
What are some common arguments against same-sex marriage?
Some arguments against stem from religious or cultural beliefs, concerns about the definition of marriage, and the potential impact on traditional family structures.
What is gay marriage?
Gay marriage is another term for same-sex marriage, where two individuals of the same gender legally marry and enjoy the same rights as other married couples.
What is SCOTUS?
SCOTUS stands for the Supreme Court of the United States, the highest federal court, which has the authority to interpret the Constitution and decide landmark cases, including those on same-sex marriage.
