Wealthy Conservatives, Politicos Gather Near Vail

VAIL, Colo. (AP) -- An invitation-only retreat for rich conservatives and prominent Republican politicians are gathering near Vail Sunday for a semiannual retreat aimed at promoting business-friendly policy.

The meetings are organized by two of the nation's most powerful conservative political donors, Charles and David Koch of the privately held energy giant Koch Industries. The guest list is kept secret, and organizers won't say exactly where the four-day retreat is being held beyond the Vail area. Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell has said he'll be attending this year's retreat. Previous guests have included South Carolina Sen. Jim DeMint and conservative commentators Rush Limbaugh and Glenn Beck.

Several dozen left-leaning protesters held an opposition rally in nearby Avon. Common Cause Colorado and others argue that business interests have too much influence over politicians.

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