(AP)  The bipartisan compromise on Wednesday to avoid a financial default and end a 16-day partial government shutdown cast a spotlight on Sens. Ted Cruz of Texas and Mike Lee of Utah.

The two lawmakers had precipitated the crises with their demand that President Barack Obama gut his 3-year-old health care law.

Senate Republicans warned the two about their quixotic move, but they’re taking little pleasure in saying ‘I-told-you-so.’

The final deal hardly nicked the health care law while the shutdown and near default left the GOP reeling.

Cruz and Lee are being wildly cheered by outside conservative groups that have made money on the months-long dispute.

The far right flank is hailing Cruz and Lee for what they’re calling a principled and courageous stand.