The Governor would have been seeking a third full term in office.
That Democratic governor will then probably seek re-election in 1998.
The governor had sought to present himself as a moderate on social issues, particular abortion.
The governor had sought to reserve the tobacco money for health care programs.
He said the Governor was seeking a "less hysterical approach" to the situation.
A little later the Assembly passed an ethics bill the governor had sought.
Then again, the Legislature and governor are seeking re-election this year.
And yes, the Governor is seeking cuts in funding for hospitals.
The governor is also seeking unemployment benefits for the fishermen and others who have been put out of work.
Welfare rolls have increased in some states, and governors seek more federal money.