ON THE LEFT: Thirty-eight House Democrats voted against the NDAA the first time it came to the floor in September, namely progressives who have long opposed the overall size of the Pentagon budget. Democratic leaders believe they could pick up some of those 38 if they tack on a debt ceiling solution, twisting their arms to swallow the bill by arguing it simply has to pass. The question is, how many? They don’t know yet.

ON THE RIGHT: Democratic leaders expect many of the 75 House Republicans who helped them pass the NDAA earlier this year will peel off if they add a debt provision. That’s especially true if they receive pressure from MAGA world, the Freedom Caucus or even GOP leaders to oppose the pairing.

Still, Democrats who are fans of this idea hope a mix of defense-minded GOP hawks loath to oppose any defense bill, and more moderate Republicans eager to avoid default, could compensate for any progressives they lose on the vote. They also acknowledge that this proposal could fall totally flat, leaving them scrambling to find another move this week.