WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- The healthcare reform bill now before the U.S. Senate is a "job killer," Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said Sunday.

Speaking just minutes before the vote, Kentucky Senator and Minority Leader, Mitch McConnell, made a last ditch plea to Democrats to vote against this bill, saying that it raises premiums, raises taxes, and cuts Medicare.

The senate's new health care reform bill is being praised by President Barack Obama and members of his party but senate Republicans led by Minority Leader Mitch McConnell say, it's a tough pill to swallow.

Senate Minority Leader Sen. Mitch McConnell of Ky., center, gestures during a health care reform news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington, Friday. From left are, Sen. Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., McConnell, Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, and Senate Minority Whip Jon Kyl of Ariz. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) argued last Sunday that Republicans deserve at least six additional weeks to consider health care reform before letting the bill come to a vote. But on Friday, his top lieutenant said the entire GOP has already made up its mind on the legislation.

CQ Transcript: Sens. Brown, Bennet, Shaheen, McConnell on CNN's 'State of the Union';

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid eked out 60 votes on a procedural motion to start the health care debate Saturday night – so there’s no guarantee he can pass a bill on the merits.

The Senate convened at 9:45 a.m. Saturday, beginning immediately with a sharp clash by the chamber’s top Democrat and Republican. Read more...

CQ Transcriptswire

What's Your Reaction? If there was any doubt that Senate Republicans are eager to drag their heels when it comes to health care reform, Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) removed it on Sunday.