WASHINGTON (AP) - Two Democratic senators say the health careoverhaul bill now going to the Senate floor for debate is a key to saving jobs and reducing the spiraling American budget deficit.

Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan says health care cost reductions for employers will save 3.5 million jobs.

Democratic Sen. Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania says the health care measure would save the country $800 billion over the coming 20 years.

Republican senators aren't buying those arguments.

Republican Sen. Lamar Alexander of Tennessee predicts the measure will collapse under its own weight during debate. And Republican Sen. Kit Bond of Missouri calls the Democratic-sponsored measure a "scam."

The senators spoke on "Fox News Sunday."

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)