As a polarizing figure in the same-sex marriage debate, Davis sought support from conservative leaders during her legal battles.

In September 2015, after defying court orders to issue licenses, Davis was jailed for contempt of court but was released when her staff issued the licenses without her name.

In response to her actions, the Kentucky Legislature enacted a law removing county clerks' names from marriage licenses to prevent similar conflicts.

A decade later, Davis continues to contest the Obergefell decision, with her legal team attempting to bring her case back to the Supreme Court after a previous appeal was declined in 2020.

As part of her ongoing legal challenges, Davis has been ordered by a federal judge to pay $360,000 in damages and attorney fees to David Ermold and his partner.

In 2018, David Ermold, one of the men denied a marriage license by Davis, ran for her office, but both he and Davis lost their respective elections.

Throughout her legal battles, Davis has received significant support from conservative political figures and faith leaders.

Her refusal began after the Supreme Court's ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges in June 2015, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide.

Davis's actions attracted international media coverage and support from conservative religious leaders, including Pope Francis and former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee.

Kim Davis, a Kentucky county clerk, gained national attention for her refusal to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, citing her Christian beliefs that oppose same-sex marriage.