Jacob Dorsey, the Republican candidate for Wisconsin State Assembly in the 44th District, is facing a backlash following a tweet sent last December that contained a homophobic slur, reports Channel 3000.

The tweet, which has since been deleted, read:

“10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals rejects #Utah’s request to stop same-sex marriages.” fags need 2 leave my favorite state alone.”

In a statement, Dorsey apologised for the tweet and said “I regret using unacceptable and hurtful language on social media last year.

I am a staunch supporter of traditional marriage, but the language I used is not in keeping with my character, family values and Christian upbringing.”

Dorsey, a former intern with Citizens for Decency who has been endorsed by Pro-Life Wisconsin and Wisconsin Right To Life, lists on Facebook a Ronald Reagan quote as his favourite: “Government’s first duty is to protect the people, not run their lives.”

A number of voters have since taken to Twitter to suggest that Dorsey’s apology is less than sincere.

So, yeah. Probably doesn’t need to be said, but don’t buy Jacob Dorsey’s apology for that homophobic tweet, Utahns. He just wants your vote.

— Queer Dalek (@Queer_Dalek) September 12, 2014