They are using it as a game of chicken, pitting those who get a monthly check from the government (food stamps, welfare, SS, disability, veterans pensions etc) against those that pay into the system.

Obama an Co. probably figure raising the debt ceiling and sending the checks out just short of the Aug 2 deadline will get everyone nervous enough that we will give them a pass for raising the debt ceiling. Maybe they won't and then after a few days of mayhem and rioting n the streets they will be able to pass any legislation and debt raising measures they want. We'll have to wait and see.