The Trump administration is backing off its demand for $8.6 billion in fiscal 2020 border wall spending in negotiations with top congressional leaders and appropriators, according to a source familiar with the talks.

That’s not just a recognition of reality — Congress hasn’t appropriated more than $1.375 billion for the wall in each of the past two fiscal years. It also reflects a realization that the administration risks losing a substantial boost in military spending and other GOP priorities if current stopgap funds end up extended for the entire fiscal year.

[Appropriations talks rejuvenated as possible shutdown looms]

“The bazaar is open, no reasonable offer refused. It’s time for the Hill to make them a proposal,” the source said.

As recently as Oct. 29, administration officials communicated to congressional staff that the White House was sticking by its $8.6 billion wall request, split into two parts: $5 billion for the Department of Homeland Security, and another $3.6 billion in Pentagon base construction accounts. On top of the wall generally being a political lightning rod on the left, Democrats argued funding the request would shortchange domestic spending priorities.