A gubernatorial hopeful is stopping at the Hill tonight.

Republican candidate and Paducah businessman Billy Harper will speak at 6 p.m. at Downing University Center.

Harper will have a meet-and-greet in DUC, Rooms 310 B and C.

He’ll speak to Western’s College Republicans chapter at 8 p.m.

Harper favors education reform and appealing the alternative minimum tax, Harper’s Press Secretary Sam Edelen said.

Edelen said Harper will address those issues with the College Republicans.

Harper founded Harper Industries Inc., a construction holding company.

More information about Harper can be found on his Web site, www.harperforgovernor.com. Another Harper Web site, www.raceforkentucky.com, contains multimedia of Harper’s campaign, including pictures and video blogs.

William Williford, president of College Republicans, said he wants to learn about Harper’s platforms.

Williford said he also wants other gubernatorial candidates to speak, but hasn’t arranged anything officially.

College Republicans Adviser Scott Lasley said meeting Harper can give students a chance to network.

Lasley also welcomes other Republican politicians.

“There’s an open invitation to all Republican candidates,” said Lasley, an assistant political science professor.

He said Harper is a thoughtful candidate who doesn’t have much recognition yet.

Students can learn about Harper tonight, Lasley said.

“It’s very exciting stuff,” he said.

A representative for Gov. Ernie Fletcher will also speak at DUC tonight.

Tompkinsville junior Sarah Harlan, a co-chair of Western’s chapter of Fletcher’s campus leadership team, will speak during the event on behalf of the governor.

Reach Alex Fontana at news@wkuherald.com.