Missouri Gov Plans Line-item Veto In Stimulus Bill

Shortly before leaving office in January, then-Gov. Matt Blunt's administration awarded an $82 million radio contract to Motorola Inc., contingent upon state financing. The federal money would alleviate financing concerns.

But the contract also is being challenged by rival bidder Tyco Electronics Ltd., which contends the true cost of Motorola's bid is closer to $112 million and that its own bid is cheaper.

Nixon's administration has not ruled on the bid protest. Cardetti gave no immediate indication Friday of whether Nixon supports using federal money for the radio system.