Ted Cruz Says He Won't Filibuster or Delay Vote on Debt Deal

Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) said he would not filibuster or delay a Senate vote on a deal reached Wednesday between Democratic and Republican leaders to raise the debt limit and reopen the government.

"There is nothing to be gained from delaying this vote one day or two days," the conservative firebrand told reporters. "I have never had any intention of delaying the timing of this vote."

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) is flanked by journalists as he arrives for a meeting at the Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., on October 16, 2013. (AFP/Getty Images)

Still unbowed, however, in his criticism of President Barack Obama's landmark health care law, Cruz again reiterated that the "Washington establishment refuses to listen to the American people."

"The deal that has been cut provides no relief to the millions of Americans [affected by Obamacare]," he said.

According to Fox News' Chad Pergram, GOP sources said Cruz and others hinted before the debt deal was struck that he would not be filibustering.

Late last month, the outspoken senator said he was prepared to use "any procedural means necessary" to prevent Obamacare funding in a continuing resolution bill aimed at funding the federal government.

“Senator Reid must not be allowed to add Obamacare funding back into the House-passed bill,” he said at the time.

On Wednesday afternoon, the U.S. Senate formally announced its plan to end the government shutdown and avoid a potential default. The finalized deal would extend the debt limit through Feb. 7, reopen the government and keep it funded through Jan. 15.

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