ATLANTA (AP) — Republican presidential hopeful Mike Huckabee supports a Kentucky clerk's refusal to issue marriage licenses because of her opposition to same-sex marriage.

In a statement, Huckabee says he spoke Wednesday morning to Kim Davis to offer "prayers and support."

Kim Davis has refused to issue licenses in Rowan County, Kentucky, since the Supreme Court's decision in June legalized gay marriage nationwide. A federal judge has since ordered her specifically to comply.

Davis calls her refusal a "heaven or hell decision."

Huckabee is an ordained Southern Baptist minister and a favorite of social conservatives.

Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul also has expressed support for Davis. Among other GOP rivals, Carly Fiorina and Lindsey Graham have said she should comply with the law.

Other Republican presidential candidates have steered clear of the matter.