Less than three dozen Republicans join almost all of the Democrats to back bill . GOP Sen. Cruz says he will filibuster the measure . By refraining from a filibuster , which would require 60 votes to overcome , the Senate 's 45 Republicans can oppose the increase in the borrowing limit without getting accused of obstructing the 55-member Democratic caucus from passing it . The debt ceiling must be raised by February 27 . Comment:
Less than three dozen Republicans join almost all of the Democrats to back bill . GOP Sen. Cruz says he will filibuster the measure . The debt ceiling must be raised by February 27 . Comment: