Oliver North

I'm a Bitter Gun Owner and I Vote: Politicker Photo

LOUISVILLE -- Thousands of members and supporters of the National Rifle Association are gathered in Louisville this weekend for the organization's annual meeting.

The political highlight of the event is this afternoon's Leadership Forum, which is just underway. The list of speakers scheduled is a full slate of prominent state and national figures, topped by the presumptive Republican presidential nominee and U.S. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.).

NRA President John Sigler kicked the forum off and introduced NRA CEO and Vice President Wayne Lapierre.

Kentucky's Lt. Gov. Daniel Mongiardo (D-Hazard) is also on the schedule early in the day. He replaces Gov. Steve Beshear at the event, who was earlier set to appear.

Another Kentucky guest is scheduled just before McCain this afternoon. Incumbent Republican U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Louisville) will speak to the assembled guests.

While the Republican presidential nomination is all but official for Arizona Senator John McCain, he and the only other candidate remaining in the field will be swinging through Kentucky prior to the May 20 primary.

As reported by Ryan Alessi of the Lexington Herald-Leader, McCain will appear in conjunction with the National Rifle Association's annual meeting in Louisville on May 16. McCain will speak as part of the American Values Leadership Forum on the first day of the three day affair.