The post-election defense debate could get messy

A tight congressional timeline between now and Election Day could push finalizing the defense bill until after November, which could result in a messy conference as lame duck leaders fight to keep their priorities in what could be their last bill.

The Senate is set to begin consideration of the fiscal 2017 National Defense Authorization Act on Monday. Analysts, however, say that doesn’t leave much time to reconcile its version with the House and get a bill signed into law before the Nov. 8 election.