Conrad opposes line-item veto proposal

Under the plan, presidents would have to suggest their spending cuts within a certain time frame. Those cuts would then become law if they received a majority vote in both houses.

Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton sought a line-item veto during their respective stints at the White House. But those requests were considered unconstitutional. Obama's is different in that it gives Congress the final say on enacting the cuts.

Based upon Conrad's reaction to the proposal, getting Congress to back the request will be a hard sell.

"I don't favor it — never have," he said. "It gives too much power to the executive."