“The concern of conservatives is over the participation of a group whose stated goals run at odds with that of core conservative principles, not over debate over those issues,” Cannon said in a statement. “Governor Palin should clarify her comments by letting us know whether in her definition, traditional marriage is a core component of conservatism.” 

Palin’s views on gay rights aren’t entirely clear. She drew attention earlier this year after she re-tweeted a message from conservative talk host Tammy Bruce that was seen by many as expressing support for the repeal of the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy. Palin later said she didn’t support the repeal. 

Palin once again declined an invite to speak at CPAC, but the decision doesn’t appear to have anything to do with the GOProud controversy. Palin citied her busy schedule as reason for skipping the event, which she has declined to appear at four years in a row. 

The controversy over the group’s CPAC involvement also hasn’t stopped the vast majority of rumored presidential contenders from attending this week’s event. 

A total of eleven potential GOP candidates have speaking slots at the event, including former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, Sen. John Thune (S.D.), Rep. Michele Bachman (Minn.), former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, former Sen. Rick Santorum (Pa.) and Govs. Mitch Daniels (Ind.) and Haley Barbour (Miss.).