Kelly Clarkson checked in with fans on her WhoSay account, throwing her support in the Republican primary behind Ron Paul, but suggesting the libertarian from Texas likely will not get the party’s nomination. The posting created some negative response from many, mainly referencing Paul’s newsletters published in the 1980s and ’90s that had racist and anti-gay writings which there is dispute to the degree the congressman was aware of. The ‘American Idol’ season one winner writes:

I love Ron Paul. I liked him a lot during the last republican nomination and no one gave him a chance. If he wins the nomination for the Republican party in 2012 he’s got my vote. Too bad he probably won’t.

I am really sorry if I have offended anyone. Obviously that was not my intent. I do not support racism. I support gay rights, straight rights, women’s rights, men’s rights, white/black/purple/orange rights. I like Ron Paul because he believes in less government and letting the people (all of us) make the decisions and mold our country. That is all. Out of all of the Republican nominees, he’s my favorite.

Man my eyes have been opened to so much hate tonight. If y’all ever disagree with something I say please don’t feel the need to attack me. I will listen to what you say and any articles or viewpoints you have when you say it with respect. Being hateful is not a healthy way to get people to see or hear you. I was raised to respect people and their decisions and beliefs and I hope you will grant me the same decency. If you don’t agree with me simply unfollow me. It’s really that easy. I hope you don’t because I would love the chance to hear what you have to say but if you’re so blinded by hate you can’t seek peace and progress then that is your unfortunate prerogative.

Among the Twitter messages (@kelly_clarkson) that Kelly sent in response to the endorsement to those critical:

@msschantz we shouldn’t try & help/tell other countries how to solve their issues w/the poor when we can’t even solve our own.

@QueenVampireX @sexidance I am a Republican but I actually voted Democrat last election.

@BarkingTurtles I love all people and could care less if you like men or women. I have never heard that Ron Paul is a racist or homophobe?

@Jcourt3 I respect your opinion and I am about progress. Ron Paul is about letting people decide, not the government. I am for this.

@infinityguitarz I don’t believe in the death penalty. Most Republicans do but not me.

Among those responding to Kelly was one of her musical peers, Michelle Branch, who also was fielding incoming fire from upset Twitter followers (@michellebranch) for agreeing with Kelly’s Ron Paul preference:

@kelly_clarkson I wholeheartedly agree. #RonPaul

@dusteallen it’s my understanding that Ron Paul is not a homophobe but more importantly, I certainly am not.

Hmm. Didn’t mean to offend. I am not racist and am absolutely not a homophobe. Just trying to weed through the non-impressive choices!

I should listen to my father who said never to share my beliefs on religion&politics. However I will always share my view on civil rights.