Richard M. Nixon
Richard M. Nixon served as the 37th President of the United States from January 1969 until his resignation in August 1974. In February 1971, he ordered the installation of a secret voice-activated taping system in the White House to preserve a historical record of his administration. Until the system's existence was revealed and dismantled in July 1973, the tapes captured Nixon directing major foreign policy initiatives, such as the opening to China, as well as his central role in the Watergate cover-up.

What Nixon talks about on the tapes
White House operations 4,654Presidential scheduling 4,037Presidential communication 2,299Public relations 1,746Vietnam War 1,719Logistics 1,631Manolo Sanchez 1,592White House communications 1,427White House administration 1,358Henry Kissinger 1,313Foreign Policy 1,160Camp David 1,101
Conversations (21,010)
— Page 165 of 211On February 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 12:16 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-019 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Stephen Bull met to coordinate the President’s logistical schedule, including arrangements for a helicopter trip to Camp David with First Lady Pat Nixon. Bull also relayed a request from First Lady Nixon for advance notice regarding their departure time to ensure she would be ready. Additionally, Bull informed the President that Senator Mike Mansfield had requested a phone call to discuss a personal matter following Nixon's meeting with Henry Kissinger.
On February 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House from 1:20 pm to 1:21 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 840-014 of the White House Tapes.
On February 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House from 1:20 pm to 1:21 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 840-015 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield discussed upcoming foreign policy developments, including Henry Kissinger’s diplomatic missions to Hanoi and Peking and the potential for a future trip to China for Mansfield. They also coordinated on appointing members to the Committee for the Study of Foreign Policy, with Nixon expressing a desire to select high-profile individuals like Nelson Rockefeller. Finally, the two reviewed the status of ceasefires in Southeast Asia, with Nixon justifying continued U.S. bombing in Laos as an incentive to finalize peace agreements.
President Nixon and Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield met to coordinate on administrative appointments and foreign policy developments. The two discussed potential candidates for a congressional committee, with Nixon expressing a preference for experienced figures like governors who could provide significant contributions. Additionally, Nixon provided a status report on the ongoing ceasefires in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, noting that current U.S. air operations serve as an incentive for continued compliance.
On February 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:23 pm and 1:33 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-021 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with staff regarding legislative strategy and foreign policy coordination, specifically concerning Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield's interest in visiting the People's Republic of China. Nixon directed Bill Timmons to contact Mansfield to discuss the potential trip and to address the appointment of nominees to an unspecified foreign policy board. Additionally, the President reviewed a list of potential board candidates provided by George H.W. Bush, emphasizing the need for loyal supporters, and prepared for an upcoming meeting with Charles Colson.
On February 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 1:23 pm and 1:32 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 840-018 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Charles Colson and others to discuss administrative appointments, the management of Henry Kissinger, and the fallout from recent media relations. The group reviewed low television ratings for a recent Kissinger appearance and discussed the necessity of keeping Kissinger under tighter control, including having Colson oversee his foreign policy project appointments to ensure ideological alignment. The President also emphasized the importance of securing conservative-leaning personnel for future advisory committees and reiterated his strategy of maintaining personal oversight to counteract Kissinger’s perceived tendency to play both sides with the media.
President Richard M. Nixon placed a courtesy call to former First Lady Claudia "Lady Bird" Johnson to offer his condolences following the death of Lyndon B. Johnson. During the conversation, Nixon praised her dignified conduct during the bereavement period and discussed the administrative challenges she faced managing estate matters and correspondence. The President concluded by suggesting she consider a future short-term appointment to the United Nations delegation, explicitly requesting that she defer any decision until she had time to recover from her recent loss.
President Nixon utilized the seclusion of Camp David to dictate personal notes and memorandum contents for future administrative use. The recording captures the President working in solitude to organize his thoughts and strategic directives. The primary focus of this session was the structured dictation of official records, though the majority of the content remains unintelligible or withdrawn.
President Richard M. Nixon and Thelma C. ("Pat") (Ryan) Nixon met in the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David on an unknown date, sometime between 2:45 pm on February 3, 1973 and 8:34 pm on February 4, 1973. The Camp David Hard Wire taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 242-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his valet, Manolo Sanchez, at Camp David to discuss personal matters and administrative arrangements. The dialogue focused on the logistics surrounding dictation equipment and the physical placement of documents. The brief exchange reflects the intimate nature of their working relationship and the private administrative tasks managed by the President's personal staff.
President Richard M. Nixon and Thelma C. ("Pat") (Ryan) Nixon met in the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David on an unknown date, sometime between 2:45 pm on February 3, 1973 and 8:34 pm on February 4, 1973. The Camp David Hard Wire taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 242-004 of the White House Tapes.
President Richard M. Nixon and Thelma C. ("Pat") (Ryan) Nixon met in the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David on an unknown date, sometime between 2:45 pm on February 3, 1973 and 8:34 pm on February 4, 1973. The Camp David Hard Wire taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 242-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Richard M. Nixon and Julie Nixon Eisenhower met in the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David on an unknown date, sometime between 2:45 pm on February 3, 1973 and 8:34 pm on February 4, 1973. The Camp David Hard Wire taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 242-007 of the White House Tapes.
President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David on an unknown date, sometime between 2:45 pm on February 3, 1973 and 8:34 pm on February 4, 1973. The Camp David Hard Wire taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 242-008 of the White House Tapes.
On February 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at 3:30 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 161-003 of the White House Tapes.
On February 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 3:30 pm and 5:18 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 161-004 of the White House Tapes.
On February 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator met in the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David at 3:30 pm. The Camp David Hard Wire taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 241-008 of the White House Tapes.
On February 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator met in the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David at an unknown time between 3:30 pm and 5:18 pm. The Camp David Hard Wire taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 241-009 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Manolo Sanchez and Tricia Nixon Cox at Camp David to reflect on recent administrative challenges, presidential communication, and foreign policy. Nixon discussed his frustrations with the press, the necessity of maintaining a firm public stance against critics, and his ongoing work regarding energy, trade, and international relations. The conversation also touched upon personal reflections regarding his predecessors and the importance of documenting his own historical record through tape recordings and notes.
President Richard Nixon and his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox, discuss their recent movements to and from Camp David and confirm their family's arrival at the retreat. The primary focus of the call involves a domestic update regarding a tame deer kept at the site and the family's efforts to introduce it to their dog, King. The participants exchange lighthearted advice on feeding the animal and express optimism about the two animals coexisting.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:20 am and 9:03 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 848-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull discussed logistical arrangements for honoring the late Colonel William B. Nolde, the last American combat casualty of the Vietnam War. They weighed the options of the President personally attending the funeral service at Arlington National Cemetery versus sending General Alexander M. Haig, Jr. as a representative to meet the family at the White House. The discussion also addressed the administration's efforts to facilitate a Washington tour for the Nolde family, coordinated in part by Senator Robert P. Griffin.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate the scheduling of upcoming meetings and establish strict protocols for Oval Office usage. Nixon mandated that specific group meetings be held in the Oval Office while simultaneously emphasizing that he did not want any photographs taken during these sessions. Additionally, the President inquired about the availability of Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler to assist with these logistical arrangements.
President Nixon met briefly with an unidentified woman in the Oval Office before transitioning to a discussion with legislative aides Thomas C. Korologos and William E. Timmons. The conversation focused on the administration's interactions with the House of Representatives, specifically mentioning Richard K. Cook. Due to the fragmented nature of the recording, no specific policy decisions or significant action items were finalized during this brief exchange.
President Nixon met with his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, and assistant Stephen B. Bull to coordinate administrative tasks and social planning. The discussion focused on managing the President's personal correspondence with celebrity acquaintances like Jane Wyman, delegating the handling of incoming telephone calls, and finalizing the guest list for an upcoming state dinner for King Hussein of Jordan. Nixon emphasized the need for a more structured approach to managing his communications to ensure effective engagement with his contacts.
President Nixon met with William E. Timmons and Thomas C. Korologos to discuss legislative strategy, focusing on upcoming budget vetoes and garnering congressional support. The group examined messaging tactics, specifically regarding the Vietnam War, and the development of a 'loyalist list' of both Republican and Democratic members to cultivate for future legislative fights. Nixon emphasized the need for an aggressive, unified stance against the opposition's budgetary agenda and discussed plans for a White House reception to reward supportive legislators.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:59 am and 10:05 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 848-008 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and Henry Kissinger discussed the ongoing Southeast Asia trip of Vice President Spiro Agnew, specifically focusing on scheduling his return and managing his public itinerary to avoid negative optics. The President and his advisors expressed concern that Agnew's potential visits to military commands or unauthorized stops in Hawaii could undermine peace efforts during a sensitive period involving Kissinger's travel to Hanoi. Ultimately, Nixon decided that Agnew should bypass sensitive military sites and proceed to California rather than returning immediately to Washington, effectively controlling the Vice President's narrative and ensuring his activities remained aligned with administration policy.
President Nixon met with members of the Pay Board and Price Commission to review the accomplishments of the Economic Stabilization Program's Phase II and discuss the transition into Phase III. The group evaluated the program's success in curbing inflation and managing the economy, while addressing challenges such as rising food prices, the global energy crisis, and the necessity of maintaining labor and business cooperation. Nixon expressed his appreciation for the board members' service and dedication, formally signaling the shift in responsibility for the next phase of economic policy.
President Nixon met with his aides and outside consultants to discuss the administration's telecommunications policy and a new strategic approach to public opinion. The discussions focused on centralizing control over broadcasting regulation, managing public perception regarding the press, and the need for internal unity among White House staff. Nixon and his advisors also reviewed polling data with Albert Sindlinger to better understand shifting voter sentiments, particularly among Democrats, regarding Vietnam, inflation, and law-and-order issues. The President emphasized that his administration must act decisively in these areas and maintain a unified public front to avoid being undermined by bureaucratic infighting or negative media coverage.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to briefly review the President's upcoming daily schedule, specifically coordinating meetings with Commander Alexander R. Larzelere and Robert J. Brown. The discussion focused on personnel changes involving the Coast Guard representative at the White House and the logistics of providing an ashtray for the respective appointments. The brief interaction concluded with Bull confirming the arrangements for the upcoming meetings.
President Nixon met with Cmdr. Alexander R. Larzelere and his family in the Oval Office, accompanied by Gen. Brent G. Scowcroft and Stephen B. Bull, to conduct a brief social visit and photo session. During the meeting, the President expressed his appreciation for the Commander's professional performance and discussed his transition into a new role within the Congressional affairs office. The conversation also touched upon the Coast Guard’s participation in the recent Inaugural Parade and the distribution of small gifts to the Larzelere children.
President Nixon met with Robert J. Brown and John D. Ehrlichman to discuss Brown's departure from his White House role and his future professional plans. The discussion covered Brown's potential involvement in international marketing programs and public broadcasting, as well as addressing the broader challenges of the American public image regarding political violence and radicalism. Following the Browns' departure, Nixon and Ehrlichman briefly addressed staffing concerns at the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, specifically regarding administrative appointments and regionalization policies.
President Nixon met with the Nolde family, including the widow and children of a fallen soldier, to express his condolences and gratitude for their sacrifice during the Vietnam War. During the visit, Nixon presented the family with gifts, discussed the importance of peace and the dignity of military families, and arranged for them to receive a private tour of the White House and Capitol. The meeting served as a gesture of presidential support, honoring the service member's legacy while providing his family with a personal encounter with the administration.
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman to discuss various administrative, economic, and staffing challenges facing the White House. The participants addressed personnel matters, including the potential departure of Patricia Hitt from HEW and organizational issues involving Herbert Klein and Peter Peterson. They also reviewed economic policy, particularly Phase III controls, and strategized on how to manage Cabinet officers and Congressional relations by utilizing decision papers to streamline presidential involvement. Additionally, the conversation touched upon the complexities of the national energy policy and the upcoming preparation for foreign policy discussions, including SALT.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:38 pm and 4:08 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-213 of the White House Tapes.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 1:54 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-030 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon briefly met with Stephen B. Bull and Manolo Sanchez in the Oval Office. The primary purpose of this very short interaction appears to be Nixon instructing Bull to open the door, with Sanchez also present and offering thanks. No significant policy discussions or decisions were made during this brief exchange.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 1:59 pm and 2:58 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 408-001 of the White House Tapes.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 1:59 pm and 2:58 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 408-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with key officials, including Earl Butz, James Lynn, Caspar Weinberger, and John Ehrlichman, to coordinate administration policy on housing, welfare reform, and government reorganization. The discussion focused on addressing the ineffectiveness of subsidized housing programs, the potential for a housing moratorium, and the need to craft a cohesive legislative agenda before the upcoming Congressional recess. Nixon emphasized the importance of presenting an aggressive, bipartisan posture to Congress and strategically managing Cabinet relations to ensure unified messaging on domestic policy.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 4:05 pm and 4:08 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 408-004 of the White House Tapes.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull talked on the telephone from 4:08 pm to 4:09 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-023 of the White House Tapes.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 4:08 pm to 4:09 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 408-005 of the White House Tapes.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:09 pm and 6:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-024 of the White House Tapes.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 4:09 pm and 4:10 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 408-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Charles Colson to discuss Colson's upcoming trip to the USSR, focusing on the potential for strategic speech material, public relations, and trade negotiations. The conversation shifted to an extensive review of polling data provided by Albert E. Sindlinger, which Nixon and Colson used to analyze public sentiment on the Vietnam War settlement, economic issues, and shifting social values. Finally, the two discussed public relations strategies for managing the media, emphasizing the need for the administration and its supporters to more aggressively combat negative press coverage regarding Watergate and domestic policy.
President Nixon coordinates with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, to arrange a meeting before they attend dinner together. The two finalize plans to meet at the Oval Office before walking to their evening engagement. This brief interaction serves as a personal scheduling logistics call between family members.
President Nixon met with his key economic advisors—George Shultz, Herbert Stein, Roy Ash, and John Ehrlichman—to assess the administration's economic policy, particularly the transition to Phase III of the wage and price controls. The group discussed the political and economic challenges of managing inflation, maintaining a $250 billion budget ceiling, and navigating potential labor strikes, with Nixon emphasizing the need for a unified strategy and public confidence. The participants also addressed international trade tensions, the devaluation of the dollar, and the necessity of managing Congressional relations to sustain the administration's fiscal objectives.
President Nixon met with unidentified individuals in the Oval Office for a brief, informal encounter. The discussion focused on the President's coat and included an exchange of gratitude between the parties. The meeting concluded quickly with the departure of the guests.
President Nixon and Julie Nixon Eisenhower met briefly in the Oval Office to coordinate logistics for an upcoming dinner. The participants confirmed the 7:30 pm start time and finalized plans for their subsequent meeting. The discussion served primarily as a personal check-in regarding the evening's schedule.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:15 pm and 7:57 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-026 of the White House Tapes.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Julie Nixon Eisenhower met in the Oval Office of the White House from 6:15 pm to 6:24 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 849-004 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger coordinated logistics for upcoming travel schedules, including Vice President Agnew's itinerary and Kissinger's planned return from Asia. They discussed the Vietnam peace process, specifically authorizing Ronald Ziegler to announce negotiations for a ceasefire in Paris, and agreed that Kissinger should visit Laos to leverage a ceasefire there. Additionally, they deliberated on diplomatic strategy regarding King Hussein of Jordan and how to manage a potential secret meeting with Egyptian representatives without triggering excessive interference from the State Department.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 8:12 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-028 of the White House Tapes.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 8:17 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-029 of the White House Tapes.
On February 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:17 pm and 11:59 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-214 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler met to discuss administrative messaging, media strategy, and responses to recent congressional and public relations challenges. They reviewed the status of legislative impoundment, personnel moves involving Herbert G. Klein, and press coverage of Vice President Spiro Agnew’s travels and the Vietnam cease-fire. Nixon emphasized the need for a firm, coordinated stance against critics of his administration’s amnesty policy while instructing Ziegler on how to manage personal media inquiries and cultivate favorable press relationships.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed the President’s daily schedule, including arrangements for a meeting with King Hussein of Jordan and a briefing with Henry Kissinger regarding his upcoming trip to Southeast Asia. The discussion also addressed press strategy regarding the administration's impoundment of funds, specifically highlighting the need to frame these actions as consistent with previous presidencies. Nixon directed Bull to clear the afternoon agenda and organize talking points for an upcoming meeting with Republican Congressional leadership concerning federal spending.
President Nixon met with an unknown individual and Stephen B. Bull to coordinate compassionate assistance for a White House staffer named Fate Suber. Nixon expressed concern over Suber’s ongoing health struggles and mental state following a heart attack. The President directed Bull to finalize arrangements for Suber and his wife to spend time at Camp David, specifically tasking him with coordinating military support and lodge accommodations.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to review preparations for an upcoming meeting with King Hussein of Jordan. Nixon expressed dissatisfaction with the length of the provided briefing materials and directed Bull to condense the reports into a more manageable two-page summary. This interaction highlights Nixon's specific requirements for executive briefing documents and his time-constrained approach to managing his daily schedule.
President Nixon and Rose Mary Woods met to coordinate administrative details for upcoming White House events, including seating arrangements and guest lists for state dinners honoring the King of Jordan and Golda Meir. They discussed the potential inclusion of various political figures and guests, as well as scheduling a tea for Alice Roosevelt Longworth. Additionally, the President expressed frustration regarding the delayed Navy discharge of David Eisenhower, accusing Secretary of the Navy John Warner of politicizing the process.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to discuss the potential mishandling of David Eisenhower's Navy discharge and the broader political performance of Secretary of the Navy John Warner. The participants also strategized on how to counter the Ervin Committee's Watergate investigation by broadening its scope to include past political campaigns, and they coordinated a messaging plan to defend the administration's impoundment of budget funds. Finally, the group reviewed legislative priorities and briefing materials for an upcoming meeting with Republican Congressional leaders.
President Nixon met with Republican congressional leaders to discuss his administration's legislative priorities, focusing primarily on securing support for a fiscally responsible budget. He emphasized the necessity of cutting spending and utilizing presidential vetoes to combat inflation and avoid tax increases, framing these actions as essential for the nation's economic stability. Additionally, the President and the leaders engaged in an extensive review of recent foreign policy, specifically highlighting the significance of the Vietnam cease-fire and the strategic importance of U.S. global leadership.
On February 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Ronald L. Ziegler met in the Oval Office of the White House from 11:16 am to 11:17 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 850-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to coordinate his upcoming schedule with King Hussein of Jordan before consulting with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The discussion focused on Ziegler’s recent press briefing regarding presidential impoundment of budget funds and the administration's frustration with media coverage. Nixon and Ziegler strategized on how to better communicate the administration's fiscal policy to the press by drawing direct comparisons to the practices of previous administrations.
President Nixon, King Hussein of Jordan, Henry Kissinger, and Zaid al-Rifai met to discuss the Middle East peace process and bilateral US-Jordanian relations, including military and economic aid requirements. The participants analyzed the regional security environment, specifically the influence of the Soviet Union, the threat posed by Iraq and Syria, and the potential for private, rather than public, negotiations between Jordan and Israel. Nixon committed to reviewing Jordan's urgent budgetary and military aid requests sympathetically, while Kissinger coordinated follow-up channels to maintain progress on peace negotiations.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed various administrative matters, focusing on establishing a standard practice for preparing summaries of the President's meetings with foreign dignitaries to improve efficiency. They discussed scheduling for upcoming White House events, including the swearing-in ceremony for John T. Dunlop and meetings regarding tax policy. Additionally, the President issued instructions for streamlining correspondence and handling personnel matters and nominations, including those of Jack O. Horton and John H. Kyl.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull discussed protocol and security arrangements for an upcoming state dinner hosting King Hussein of Jordan. The pair focused on logistics regarding vehicle transport and seating for the official party to avoid potential security risks and crowd management issues. Nixon directed Bull to handle these instructions carefully so that the guests would not be offended by the revised itinerary.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed several administrative and political matters, including the handling of David Eisenhower's military service discharge and strategies for managing the upcoming Senate Watergate hearings. Nixon emphasized the need for simpler, more effective public relations messaging regarding the federal budget and impoundments, criticizing current staff for failing to communicate in concise, "grabby" terms. They also assessed the legislative landscape and the potential for a more bipartisan approach to the Watergate committee structure while planning future Cabinet engagement and press strategies.
On February 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:54 pm and 2:47 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-031 of the White House Tapes.
On February 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 1:54 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 409-008 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his personal aide, Manolo Sanchez, to discuss logistics regarding an upcoming trip to California. The brief conversation focused on scheduling arrangements and the specific needs of Sanchez's family, including travel plans for their dogs and his wife, Fina Sanchez. The exchange functioned primarily as a logistical check-in to coordinate these personal travel details.
President Nixon met with aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate logistical arrangements for his daily schedule and upcoming meetings. The discussion centered on adjusting the President’s itinerary following the heart attack suffered by Rex W. Scouten. They finalized the timing and location for briefings involving Henry Kissinger and potentially Charles Colson.
On February 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 1:57 pm and 2:47 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 409-011 of the White House Tapes.
On February 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 1:57 pm and 2:47 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 409-012 of the White House Tapes.
On February 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and William P. Rogers met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 1:57 pm and 2:47 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 409-013 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, coordinate logistics for an upcoming trip to Camp David involving family and friends. The conversation focuses on scheduling travel plans, arranging for Charles “Bebe” Rebozo to join them on Saturday, and confirming that an invitation to Camp David has been extended to Fate Suber upon his discharge from the hospital. They also briefly discuss the current weather conditions at the retreat and local wildlife sightings.
President Nixon held a brief, informal check-in with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, to discuss her upcoming travel and social plans. The conversation primarily focused on logistics for a visit, including travel timing to avoid work conflicts and general inquiries regarding her well-being. No significant policy or administrative decisions were made during this personal exchange.
On February 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 2:47 pm and 2:57 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 409-015 of the White House Tapes.
On February 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 2:47 pm and 2:57 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 409-016 of the White House Tapes.
On February 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:50 pm and 11:50 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-033 of the White House Tapes.
On February 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:50 pm and 11:50 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-034 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Charles W. Colson and later Henry Kissinger to discuss White House political strategy, administration appointments, and foreign policy objectives. The discussions focused on managing labor union relations, controlling the narrative through press and polling, and navigating congressional opposition to the administration's budget and reconstruction aid plans for North Vietnam. The President emphasized his desire to implement reorganization in his second term by replacing bureaucrats with political appointees and solidified plans for his upcoming diplomatic initiatives.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed and reorganized the President's upcoming schedule to accommodate administrative priorities, including economic policy and legislative strategy. They specifically coordinated meetings with figures such as Wilbur Mills and the National Association of Manufacturers while finalizing the timing for a scheduled radio address. Nixon emphasized the need for thorough talking papers to prepare for high-level discussions, ultimately opting for a one-on-one meeting with Mills to avoid unnecessary staff involvement.
President Nixon dictates a personal letter to actress Jane Wyman to express his admiration for her performance in the film "So Big." During the dictation, Nixon critiques the declining quality of contemporary Hollywood and European cinema, contrasting it with the superior artistry of older films. He notes that he and First Lady Pat Nixon frequently rely on older movie catalogs for entertainment during their weekends at Camp David.
In this meeting, President Nixon met with Rose Mary Woods and H. R. Haldeman to address various administrative and political matters, including the guest list protocols for White House events and potential personnel changes for administration appointees. The discussion also covered the logistical planning for an upcoming radio address, where the President expressed frustration over inadequate preparation time and the poor quality of recent briefings provided by his staff. Additionally, they reviewed details regarding the 1973 inaugural ceremonies and the military discharge status of David Eisenhower, reaching consensus on how to manage these sensitive issues.
President Nixon met with Arthur Burns and George Shultz to coordinate the administration's economic response to a worsening international monetary crisis and trade deficit. The group finalized plans for a 6.5% dollar devaluation and discussed strategies to secure trade revaluation agreements with Japan and European partners. Additionally, they reviewed talking points for upcoming congressional testimonies, emphasized the need for continued wage and price control efforts, and addressed the potential bankruptcy of a railroad company.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman engaged in a comprehensive discussion regarding the management of the administration's public image and the strategic control of presidential communication. They debated the efficacy of state dinners and ceremonial functions, concluding that these activities often yield low political return, and evaluated the best media outlets for communicating economic policy. Additionally, they critiqued the organizational structure of White House staff, analyzed public opinion on amnesty for Vietnam War deserters, and addressed the psychological transition of Henry Kissinger following the Vietnam peace settlement.
On February 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Walter R. Tkach talked on the telephone from 11:50 pm to 11:51 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-035 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with his physician, Dr. Walter R. Tkach, regarding the critical post-surgical condition of Senator John C. Stennis. Despite slight improvements in the Senator's lucidity and vital signs, Dr. Tkach offered a grim prognosis, suggesting that the Senator was unlikely to survive for more than a few days. Consequently, the President made plans to visit Stennis the following morning, pending medical clearance.
On February 7, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:46 am and 9:54 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 852-001 of the White House Tapes.
On February 7, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:46 am and 9:54 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 852-002 of the White House Tapes.
On February 7, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:46 am and 9:54 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 852-003 of the White House Tapes.
On February 7, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:46 am and 9:54 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 852-004 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss strategy for Kissinger’s upcoming trip to Hanoi and the People’s Republic of China, as well as the ongoing effort to secure economic aid for North Vietnam. They addressed the necessity of managing Congressional resistance by emphasizing international participation in reconstruction funds and agreed on a firm, controlled approach toward critics and foreign leaders like Indira Gandhi. Nixon also expressed a desire to pivot his administration’s public focus toward a new diplomatic initiative for Europe once the Vietnam settlement was finalized.