BOSTON -- Numbers matter. When Gov. Deval Patrick promises the creation of 30,000 construction jobs to build three resort casinos, it's a powerful argument for a controversial proposal. But do the numbers add up?

A Boston Globe analysis said no, with experts on both sides of the issue estimating widely varying numbers between five and 20,000. So, where did the 30,000 number come from?

Suffolk Downs.

That's right. A would-be casino bidder and beneficiary of casino gambling generated the estimate the Gov. used to help sell his plan.

This is the political red meat Speaker Sal Di Masi was looking for in his fight against casinos. In a feisty reply, the governor challenged the Speaker to submit his own, quote, "sound alternatives" to generate revenue and jobs. Both positions have merit--- and in a strange twist; perhaps this new debate can spark the necessary conversation and collaboration to break their stalemate.

The barbs exchanged between the governor and speaker, as the only communication between the two leaders, do not advance progressive solutions to our state's economic woes -- and projected budget deficit of well over $1 billion.

If the governor wants to make his agenda a reality, his advocacy needs to be based on realistic and sound financial projections the people and legislature can debate. Using estimates provided by groups with a clear self-interest, is in no one's best interest.