I am still trying to understand both sides of this can/can't debate. I looks to me like there are parts of correctness to both opposing view points.
Here is what I HOPE to be the case (although I'm completely convinced yet).
In the big picture, there seems to be discretionary USE of the fixed amounts named. The Dems think we only got 1.6B for the wall. This seems to be correct if you only look at that appropriation and they 'think' they won that battle.
However, since the Corps of Engineers got 80B appropriated for their use, DJT could direct 25B of their appropriation toward that effort. I hope.
In this case, 'they are so stupid' would apply.
I hope this to be true as it would bridge the gap between what would appear to be two opposing viewpoints, that are neither both entirely correct or entirely wrong. It would also fit much better with the way this has all progressed, and leave us less 'screwed' in the aftermath of this bill's signing.