DETROIT, MI -- Emergency Manager Kevyn Orr swore in his oath of office to support the Michigan constitution, but he wants to cut constitutionally protected pensions, attorney Anthony Ullman pointed out repeatedly in bankruptcy court Monday.

Ullman, who represents Detroit retirees, cross-examined Orr after lawyers for the city had the emergency manager review the steps that led him to take the city into bankruptcy.

Orr insisted earlier Monday that he tried to negotiate in good faith with creditors before seeking Chapter 9 protection.

Labor unions, a retiree committee and others are trying to prove otherwise in the trial that will decide whether Detroit is eligible for bankruptcy.

Ullman pressed Orr on the fact that he made proposals to slash pensions despite the constitutional protection.

"We think federal supremacy trumps state law," Orr said.

Orr repeatedly said "I don't know" when Ullman asked whether he believed he had the authority to impose benefit cuts outside of bankruptcy.

Gov. Rick Snyder is expected to take the stand at 1 p.m.

Orr earlier Monday reviewed the dire conditions and obstacles to negotiation that led to the bankruptcy filing.

"If we do not go through Chapter 9, this city will continue to fail," Orr said.

A lawyer for the opposition objected to the statement, calling it speculation. U.S. District Judge Steven Rhodes overruled the objection.

Follow MLive Detroit reporter Khalil AlHajal on Twitter @DetroitKhalil or on Facebook at Detroit Khalil. He can be reached at kalhajal@mlive.com or 313-643-0527.