Democratic gubernatorial candidate Steve Rowe just put out a statement saying he supports raising the cigarette tax rather than cutting services for the elderly and families.

"The proposed cuts will hurt Maine people and will result in increased future costs for Maine taxpayers," he wrote. "It's wrong to eliminate home-based services for our seniors who are trying to remain independent in their homes. These cuts will cost us more later, and will force stricken communities to raise property taxes on Maine families."

Gov. John Baldacci proposed several cuts to human services as part of his attempt to fill a $438 million gap in the state budget. He said he won't support raising taxes to fill the hole, but he has been supportive of raising the cigarette tax in the past.

Rowe said raising the tax will not only help fill the budget gap, but will help reduce youth smoking. He then took a mild shot at Baldacci.

"Putting tobacco interests above the interests of Maine people is wrong," he wrote. "It's time for leadership that protects what is most sacred, and that addresses Maine's most urgent needs."