COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney is not coming to U.S. Sen. Jim DeMint's forum for Republican presidential hopefuls on Labor Day, but former House Speaker Newt Gingrich has accepted an invitation.
An organizer of the Palmetto Freedom Forum said Wednesday that Romney's campaign declined to attend, citing scheduling conflicts. Gingrich's campaign confirmed Tuesday he would attend the Columbia forum.
Former DeMint state director Luke Byars says Minnesota congresswoman Michele Bachmann, businessman Herman Cain, Texas congressman Ron Paul, and Texas Gov. Rick Perry have previously accepted invitations.
Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani have not responded to their invitations. They have until 5 p.m. Wednesday to accept.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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