Ryan to headline CPAC

In another sign that Paul Ryan may be eyeing a run at the White House in 2016, the Conservative Political Action Conference announced Friday that he has agreed to address the conference this March.

"We are pleased to announce that Congressman Paul Ryan will be a featured speaker at CPAC 2013," said American Conservative Union Chairman Al Cardenas. "From the day he was elected, Chairman Ryan has been a strong voice in Congress for pro-growth, free market economic policies and has always been a CPAC favorite."

The Wisconsin congressman and former Republican vice presidential nominee is the first high profile speaker to be confirmed by the group.

CPAC is the largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists, and it has launched the presidential campaigns of many Republican candidates. The annual CPAC straw poll is considered a broad barometer of the conservative movement, especially as a vote on possible presidential candidates.

Other prominent Republicans invited to speak-- but not yet confirmed-- include Sen. Marco Rubio, former Gov. Jeb Bush, Gov. Susana Martinez, Sen. Ted Cruz, former Sen. Jim DeMint, Sen. Tim Scott, and former Rep. Ron Paul.

The conference, which turns 40 this year, will be held from March 14-16 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in Washington.