GOP candidate withdraws, cites same-sex marriage issue

PURVIS, Miss. (AP) — A Republican candidate for Lamar County circuit clerk has withdrawal over same-sex marriage issue.

Jay Jernigan tells WDAM-TV in Laurel (http://bit.ly/1NCiIVl ) he would not be comfortable issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples, which is part of the circuit clerk's duties.

Jernigan has a law practice in Hattiesburg. He says his beliefs on gay lifestyles do not interfere with representing clients. He says he has represented many gay individuals."

Jernigan withdrew in a letter to the Lamar County Republicans Party Executive Committee.

The party primary is Aug. 4.

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The Gayly 7/4/2015 at 10:45 am CST