27 NEWSFIRST has learned that Kentucky Senate President David Williams (R-Burkesville) will make a run for the Governor's office next year, and Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer will join the ticket in the Lieutenant Governor slot.

Sources indicate the official announcement will come on Wednesday.

Williams has served as President of the Kentucky Senate since 2000 when the Republican Party gained control of the chamber for the first time in modern state history.

Farmer is in his second term as Agriculture Commissioner. He is also a former basketball player for the University of Kentucky.

Businessman Phil Moffett recently announced he is also seeking the Republican nomination for governor. His running mate is state Rep. Mike Harmon (R-Danville).

The candidates will face a primary election next May.