Gov. Dayton Wary Of Vikings Cutting Kluwe

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Gov. Mark Dayton has joined the list of those wondering if the Minnesota Vikings cut veteran punter Chris Kluwe solely for performance purposes.

Dayton says "I don't feel good about" the Vikings cutting Kluwe, an eight-year veteran who is being replaced by rookie Jeff Locke. Kluwe earned a reputation over the last few years as an outspoken advocate for several civil rights and social issues, most notably for gay marriage.

Vikings GM Rick Spielman said during the draft he supports Kluwe's right to speak his mind.

When asked if he thought Kluwe's campaign for gay marriage last season played a role in his departure, Dayton said, "I can't say for sure." The governor says he thought Kluwe should've had the chance to compete for the job in the preseason.

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