Governor Jim Douglas' opponents are using the occasion of his campaign kickoff to fire a fresh round of criticisms at the Republican incumbent.

Democrat Gaye Symington says she questions Douglas' claims to holding down taxes. The outgoing House Speaker says several budget decisions by the governor have had the effect of driving up local property taxes.

Progressive candidate Anthony Pollina is taking aim at Douglas on a range of issues.

He says the fastest-growing jobs in Vermont are low-paying, it's bridges are crumbling, affordable housing is out of reach for many working families, the state has no real energy plan and there has been no progress in cleaning up Lake Champlain.