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 18 of 211On May 20, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:12 pm and 8:14 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-215 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the importance of upcoming media briefings with representatives from Time and Newsweek, specifically mentioning journalists Jerrold L. Schecter and John L. Steele. Nixon emphasizes the critical nature of the coverage expected for the following week and directs Kissinger to ensure he personally speaks with these correspondents before their respective deadlines. Kissinger confirms his intent to meet with the reporters to manage the administration's messaging.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler reviewed the overwhelmingly positive television network coverage of the administration's announcement regarding the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT). Ziegler detailed favorable commentary from ABC, NBC, and CBS, noting that anchors like Walter Cronkite characterized the negotiations as a potential breakthrough for global peace. To maintain this positive momentum, Nixon directed the team to expand their media outreach strategy by engaging with major news magazines through additional background briefings led by Henry Kissinger.
On May 20, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull talked on the telephone from 8:28 pm to 8:29 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-106 of the White House Tapes.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:32 am and 9:37 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-107 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman, Henry Kissinger, and other advisors to review his upcoming schedule, including appearances at the INTELSAT conference and a National Medal of Science ceremony. The discussion covered the President’s recent surprise visit to a Tulane alumni dinner, various domestic policy issues such as school desegregation and environmental regulations, and potential personnel moves within the administration. Additionally, the President and his staff strategized on handling media coverage of the SALT agreement and discussed the importance of presenting a confident, coordinated economic policy in anticipation of upcoming meetings in Europe.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:25 am and 9:37 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 503-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted speechwriter William Safire for assistance in refining rhetoric for an upcoming presentation of science medals. Nixon sought to incorporate historical quotes from Thomas Jefferson and Alfred E. Smith to challenge the contemporary anti-science sentiment and pushback against technological progress. Safire agreed to research the specific phrasing of the requested quotes and identify additional references to Benjamin Franklin that would resonate with an audience of scientists.
President Nixon consulted speechwriter William Safire to refine remarks for an upcoming presentation of science medals. The President requested that Safire incorporate a paraphrase of Thomas Jefferson regarding the preference of hope over fear to ensure the speech resonated with the audience. Nixon finalized the messaging strategy, intending to utilize the draft for an event scheduled for early June.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met to coordinate the logistics and presentation strategy for the National Medals of Science awards ceremony. They discussed the physical handling of the medals, specifically debating the most effective way to present the awards to recipients without creating awkward or cumbersome visual moments. The discussion focused on streamlining the protocol to ensure the ceremony proceeded smoothly and with proper decorum.
On May 21, 1971, 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 9:53 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 503-005 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his SALT delegation, including Henry Kissinger and Gerard C. Smith, to strategize for upcoming negotiations in Helsinki and manage public and bureaucratic expectations. The discussion focused on maintaining a firm stance on the 'Safeguard' ABM program while emphasizing the need to keep details confidential to prevent premature leaks and political opposition. Nixon stressed that the delegation should project strength and avoid defensiveness, ultimately aiming to finalize a comprehensive treaty that would serve American security interests.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met in the Oval Office of the White House from 10:46 am to 10:47 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 503-007 of the White House Tapes.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:47 am and 11:02 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 503-008 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Secretary of State William P. Rogers to discuss complex foreign policy strategies involving the Soviet Union, the People's Republic of China, and the Middle East. Nixon emphasized the importance of leveraging the Soviet Union's underlying anxiety regarding China while maintaining a careful, high-level approach to diplomatic overtures with the PRC. Regarding the Middle East, the President instructed Rogers to take a firm stance in negotiations, expressing personal willingness to apply pressure on Israel to reach a settlement while critiquing the current Israeli leadership.
President Nixon met briefly with Secretary of State William P. Rogers and aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate scheduling and logistics for upcoming appointments. The participants finalized the arrangements for an impending meeting and confirmed the availability of staff support. The discussion concluded with the parties departing to continue their daily schedules.
President Nixon met with Olympic swimmer Donald Schollander and Jonathan Rose to express his appreciation for Schollander’s achievements and dedication. The conversation centered on the societal value of athletics, the importance of discipline and leadership in sports, and comparisons of coaching styles across various disciplines. During the meeting, President Nixon presented Schollander with a pair of presidential cuff links.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:20 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 503-012 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Stevens, Mr. and Mrs. Alex D. Steinkamp, and Robert H. Finch for a social visit in the Oval Office. The discussion included the guests' recent tour of the Treasury Department and a proposal from the guests to simplify federal revenue sharing by utilizing local county treasurers. The President concluded the meeting by presenting the guests with commemorative gifts and discussing upcoming events at the White House.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:31 pm and 2:59 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 503-014 of the White House Tapes.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:42 pm and 12:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-109 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the media's coverage of the ongoing Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT), specifically focusing on how major outlets like The New York Times and The Washington Post were portraying the negotiations. Nixon expressed frustration with the press's characterization of the potential agreement, viewing their critical stance as an attempt to protect their past editorial positions. Ultimately, they agreed that Kissinger should maintain a positive, firm narrative during upcoming press briefings, emphasizing the importance of a simultaneous approach to both offensive and defensive weapons.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:50 pm and 6:26 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-111 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, George Shultz, John Ehrlichman, and Henry Kissinger to discuss several pressing domestic and foreign policy issues. The team reviewed Peter Peterson's potential new roles in intelligence and government reorganization, addressed political concerns regarding environmental regulations, and formulated plans to require an "economic impact statement" for future agency decisions. Additionally, the President and Kissinger finalized plans for a diplomatic meeting with South Vietnamese President Nguyen Van Thieu, deciding to prioritize the regional impact over potential negative reactions from American liberals.
President Nixon met with Herbert Stein, George Shultz, John Connally, and Arthur Burns to discuss the state of the U.S. economy, specifically focusing on inflation, sluggish recovery, and steel industry negotiations. The group debated the potential risks of government intervention, including wage-price freezes, while also planning a strategy to better communicate budget deficits and fiscal policy to the American public. Additionally, Nixon emphasized the need for a unified administration voice on economic policy ahead of upcoming international monetary conferences, urging his team to maintain a confident and assertive posture regarding U.S. domestic economic strength.
President Nixon met with Robert D. Murphy and Alexander M. Haig, Jr. to discuss the geopolitical implications of the United States' shifting China policy, particularly regarding Taiwan's status in the United Nations. The participants analyzed the political stability and leadership of Chiang Kai-shek and explored the feasibility of a 'two-China' policy versus the risks of abandoning a long-standing ally. Nixon expressed concern that tactical maneuvering within the UN would fail to win respect from Peking and might instead signal a loss of American resolve to the international community.
President Nixon met with Alexander P. Butterfield to coordinate preparations and review remarks for the President's upcoming schedule on May 22, 1971. The brief discussion focused on finalizing the details of the President's public messaging and agenda for the following day. No significant policy decisions were recorded during this short administrative consultation.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 6:00 pm and 6:04 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 503-019 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, and Alexander Butterfield met to coordinate upcoming presidential remarks and review scheduling logistics. The discussion included planning for an honorary dinner for Nicaraguan President Anastasio Somoza Debayle and television arrangements for the upcoming Lyndon B. Johnson library dedication ceremony. Nixon also expressed his personal preference to avoid future use of a presidential library, favoring his office in San Clemente instead.
President Nixon met with Ronald Ziegler and Alexander Butterfield to coordinate the President's upcoming schedule and social engagements. The discussion focused on logistics regarding a scheduled lunch and a planned meeting with Charles "Bebe" Rebozo. The participants concluded the brief session by clarifying the availability and whereabouts of the individuals involved in these meetings.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met to review specific materials, including a speech draft and a press conference transcript. The discussion focused on finalizing the text and organization of these documents for upcoming use. No major policy decisions were reached, as the meeting served primarily as an administrative review of White House communications.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 6:07 pm and 6:26 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 503-023 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his close friend Charles G. "Bebe" Rebozo to discuss personal logistics and preparations for an upcoming social gathering. The conversation included arrangements for Billy Graham's arrival in Florida, the scheduling of the President's speech for the following day, and coordination with First Lady Pat Nixon regarding dinner plans and guest etiquette. These discussions focused on balancing professional obligations with personal travel and private hospitality.
President Richard Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon engaged in a brief telephone conversation to coordinate personal plans. The discussion centered on logistics and private matters rather than official government business. No significant policy decisions were made during this exchange.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the strategic importance of ongoing negotiations with the Soviet Union and the necessity of establishing clear linkage between various diplomatic issues. They evaluate the political risks of a potential failure in reaching an agreement, characterizing the situation as a critical test of whether the two nations can conduct substantive business. The conversation emphasizes that the administration’s forthcoming public announcement will serve as a definitive gauge of Soviet intentions.
President Nixon and his close associate Charles G. "Bebe" Rebozo held an informal meeting in the Executive Office Building. The brief, fragmentary exchange appears to focus on casual social observations rather than formal policy matters. No substantive administrative decisions or action items were recorded during this session.
President Nixon and his close confidant Charles G. "Bebe" Rebozo engaged in a wide-ranging, informal discussion in the Oval Office covering both personal matters and political strategy. The conversation touched upon the stresses of the presidency, potential political challengers like Ted Kennedy, and the political future of Vice President Spiro Agnew, whom Nixon expressed a desire not to force out of office despite press scrutiny. Additionally, the pair discussed administrative appointments, the merits of various cabinet members such as John Connally, and miscellaneous personal topics including property, finance, and office decor.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:05 pm and 8:30 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-113 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the favorable media coverage surrounding the administration's progress in the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT). Kissinger reports on his briefings with prominent journalists, noting that their reporting confirms a growing consensus that the President is achieving a historic breakthrough in U.S.-Soviet relations. The two reflect on their strategic decision-making process since December 1970 regarding the USSR and China, concluding that their diplomatic maneuvering has effectively neutralized political opposition.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and unknown person(s) talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:36 pm and 8:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-115 of the White House Tapes.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:36 pm and 8:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-116 of the White House Tapes.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:36 pm and 8:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-216 of the White House Tapes.
On May 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 8:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-117 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed strategies for managing Vietnam policy, specifically regarding the timing of a proposed meeting with South Vietnamese President Nguyen Van Thieu. They evaluated the political risks of prematurely announcing an end to combat operations and agreed to delay public actions until mid-June to align with potential developments in negotiations and ongoing diplomatic efforts with the Soviet Union and China. Kissinger advised the President to use a firm, deadline-driven approach with the Soviets regarding a potential summit to avoid being manipulated by their stalling tactics.
On May 25, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:36 pm and 8:53 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-120 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed scheduling logistics for upcoming domestic and foreign policy events, including a meeting with South Vietnamese President Nguyen Van Thieu and various budget-related briefings. They reviewed the success of the President’s recent trip to Alabama, noting favorable crowd reactions and the effectiveness of his engagement with regional media and local editors. Additionally, the two discussed the strategic timing for a future press conference to maximize television audience reach during the Memorial Day weekend, while acknowledging the positive public relations value of recent family photos featuring Julie and David Eisenhower.
On May 25, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:14 pm and 9:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-122 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler reviewed the media coverage and public reception of the President's recent trip to Alabama, specifically praising the large, enthusiastic crowds and the effective messaging regarding national unity. They discussed the positive impact of the President's informal briefing for Southern regional journalists, noting that his comments on patriotism, religion, and military strength were well-received. Finally, the two consulted on the scheduling of an upcoming press conference, weighing the strategic advantages of holding it on a Friday versus a Tuesday in light of the week's existing news cycle.
On May 25, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:20 pm and 9:29 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-124 of the White House Tapes.
On May 25, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 9:29 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-125 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:24 am and 11:07 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-126 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:08 am and 10:03 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 505-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon dictates a highly sensitive, 'eyes-only' memorandum for Secretary of State William P. Rogers outlining his strategic vision for U.S. Middle East policy. He emphasizes that U.S. national security interests must take precedence over domestic political pressures, specifically criticizing the influence of the 'Jewish lobby' on American foreign policy and past humanitarian neglect of Arab refugees. Nixon instructs Rogers to aggressively pursue an interim peace agreement with Israeli leaders by mid-summer 1971, warning that failing to secure a settlement will force the U.S. to rebalance its regional military support to prevent a broader conflict.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:08 am and 10:03 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 505-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, and Henry Kissinger discussed the recent killings of police officers in New York and Washington D.C., with Nixon expressing strong support for law enforcement and frustration over perceived inaction. They also covered upcoming presidential travel, including potential trips for Vice President Agnew and Kissinger's own international engagements, as well as the ongoing Vietnam War and the complex diplomatic situation regarding the People's Republic of China. A decision was made to schedule a press conference for Tuesday, May 25th, and Nixon emphasized the need for a strong statement on marijuana policy.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discussed internal security concerns regarding police violence and coordinated a private strategy meeting regarding sensitive diplomatic outreach to the People's Republic of China. Nixon directed Rogers and Henry Kissinger to prepare comprehensive political and diplomatic arguments for this China policy shift while maintaining a firm presidential posture. The participants agreed to meet privately following a scheduled luncheon with King Faisal to finalize their approach before Rogers’ upcoming trip to Europe.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:11 am and 1:30 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-128 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Alexander P. Butterfield to finalize the logistical and protocol arrangements for an upcoming working lunch with King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. Nixon directed Butterfield to increase the guest list to approximately 40 congressional members and industry figures, including those from the oil sector, to maximize political engagement. The President also established specific rules for the event, including a strict three-course menu, a champagne-only beverage policy, and a directive that the interpreter should not translate his English remarks during the toast.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and other staff members to review administrative operations and discuss public relations strategies. They evaluated the success of a recent trip to Alabama, debated the appropriate use of motorcades and podiums to maintain presidential dignity, and addressed upcoming personnel appointments, including a potential position for Albert Watson. Additionally, Nixon emphasized his preference for controlling his media appearances and artistic portraiture, insisting that staff streamline his briefing materials and limit his direct physical engagement with crowds.
President Nixon, Henry Kissinger, and David K. E. Bruce met to discuss the terms of Bruce's resignation from his role in the Vietnam negotiations and his future potential as a presidential consultant. The participants reviewed the status of the Paris peace talks, including the challenges regarding prisoner of war issues and the need for a graceful exit strategy for Bruce. Additionally, Nixon and Kissinger solicited Bruce’s insights on potential diplomatic outreach to the People's Republic of China, emphasizing that his future involvement would be most effective after he had officially left his current position.
President Nixon met with his secretary, Rose Mary Woods, to address a variety of administrative tasks and personal correspondence. They discussed the logistics of book presentations, the potential for Nixon to author a book on past presidents, and the management of his future presidential papers. Additionally, the pair touched upon public sentiment regarding the funding of presidential libraries and the political climate surrounding recent police funerals.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield held a brief meeting to coordinate the President's upcoming schedule. The primary focus of the discussion was a specific telephone call involving Edward J. Kiernan at the Executive Office Building. Butterfield prompted the President to review details regarding this communication, which concluded the short session.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 1:26 pm and 1:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 505-009 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 1:30 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-129 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 1:37 pm and 1:41 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 505-011 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 1:37 pm and 1:41 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 505-012 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Charles Colson met to discuss the administration's political strategy regarding the recent killing of police officers, with Nixon expressing frustration over the Justice Department's failure to take aggressive legal action or project a sufficiently firm image. The two strategized on how to exploit the issue to court public support and push for new federal legislation against police killings, while also reviewing current polling data and congressional maneuvering on the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) and the Antiballistic Missile (ABM) program. Nixon emphasized his desire for a hard-line, proactive stance to contrast with Democratic candidates, ultimately tasking Colson with finding ways to leverage these issues for electoral advantage.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 2:10 pm and 2:17 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-009 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon telephoned Edward J. Kiernan to express his condolences following the recent slayings of police officers in New York City. Nixon requested that Kiernan convey his appreciation for the force's service and reassured him that the vast majority of Americans support law enforcement during these difficult times. The conversation also touched upon the necessity of fostering greater public respect for police officers, with both men noting that the tragic incidents served to re-awaken public support for law and order.
President Nixon spoke with Edward J. Kiernan, president of the Patrolmen's Benevolent Association, to express support for law enforcement following a recent, troubling incident. During the brief discussion, Nixon emphasized the necessity of maintaining public respect for police officers in their efforts to combat criminal elements. The President concluded the call by requesting that Kiernan convey his encouragement and gratitude to the rank-and-file officers.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and unknown person(s) talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:19 pm and 2:20 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-131 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, 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 2:19 pm and 2:20 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-011 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss the President’s recent outreach to Edward J. Kiernan following the killing of New York City police officers. Nixon confirms he sent letters of condolence to the victims' families and expressed his formal support for the NYPD to boost morale and public appreciation for law enforcement. Colson agrees to coordinate further publicity for these actions, specifically through the New York Daily News, to capitalize on the potential political impact.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Charles W. Colson met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 2:20 pm to 2:21 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-012 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:21 pm and 3:12 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-133 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John D. Ehrlichman discuss shifting federal management of water resource projects from the Department of the Interior to NASA, aiming to leverage NASA's technical and management expertise for broader social applications. The President expresses frustration with the current bureaucracy and advocates for utilizing modern scientific approaches over traditional departmental methods. Additionally, the participants coordinate a legislative strategy involving Congressman F. Edward Hébert regarding land use at Camp Pendleton and address ongoing concerns related to New York police issues and J. Edgar Hoover.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 2:21 pm and 3:12 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-014 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, 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 2:21 pm and 3:12 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-015 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consults with Raymond K. Price, Jr. to coordinate revisions for an upcoming West Point speech, requesting that Price bring speechwriter John K. Andrews to the Executive Office Building for a meeting. Nixon expresses concern that current drafts focus too heavily on Vietnam, directing his staff to pivot the speech toward post-Vietnam foreign policy and economic strategy. He emphasizes incorporating themes related to U.S. diplomatic initiatives with the Soviet Union and China to highlight the broader transition from war to peace.
President Nixon met with speechwriter Raymond K. Price, Jr. to coordinate preparations for an upcoming West Point commencement address. The President expressed specific concerns regarding how the speech should frame Vietnam policy and distance his administration's position from existing, unsatisfactory drafts. Nixon directed Price to meet with him shortly thereafter to ensure the speech draft better aligned with his personal perspective and strategic vision.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:15 pm and 3:17 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-135 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, 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 3:15 pm and 3:17 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-017 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon spoke briefly with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, via telephone to coordinate family schedules. They confirmed plans for Julie and David Eisenhower to join the President and Mrs. Nixon for dinner on the porch the following evening. The conversation also touched upon Julie and David's evening plans, including a shower for Helen Thomas that Mrs. Nixon and Tricia would attend, and the President's own evening engagements with a visitor from Hong Kong, a speech, and a doctor's appointment.
President Richard Nixon and his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, engage in a brief, informal personal check-in. The conversation centers on coordinating social arrangements and logistical planning for an upcoming gathering involving Julie and her husband, David Eisenhower. No significant policy decisions are made, as the exchange is limited to light domestic updates and scheduling clarifications.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:18 pm and 3:30 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-137 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, 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 3:18 pm and 3:30 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-019 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Leonard Garment discuss the positive reception of the President's recent speech on the arts, which Nancy Hanks reported was well-received by leaders in the field. Beyond cultural policy, Garment informs the President of a significant fundraising development involving Taft Schreiber, Sam Rothberg, and other California Democrats targeting $5 million for the 1972 campaign. Nixon emphasizes the importance of framing arts and culture as essential to the human experience, transcending basic material needs like food stamps or Social Security.
President Nixon and Leonard Garment discussed the administration's outreach efforts to the arts community and the political value of engaging with cultural figures. Nixon emphasized his belief that the government should look beyond material concerns like social security or food stamps to convey more profound, inspirational messages to the public. He specifically instructed Garment to encourage Nancy Hanks, the chair of the National Endowment for the Arts, to maintain flexibility and effectively navigate the countercultural climate of the era.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 3:35 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-021 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Raymond K. Price, Jr. and John K. Andrews, Jr. to edit and refine the themes of a forthcoming commencement speech. The President emphasized a message centered on American global responsibility, the necessity of maintaining strength, and the importance of service, while cautioning against neo-isolationism. The discussion also addressed recent violence against police officers, with Nixon directing staff to highlight his prior initiatives regarding law enforcement support and to consider a potential national scholarship fund for the children of slain officers.
President Nixon met with J. Edgar Hoover, John Mitchell, and senior staff to coordinate a stronger federal response to rising violence against police officers, including the potential implementation of federal insurance benefits for fallen officers' families. The group discussed strategies to foster public support for law enforcement, such as establishing an annual Police Recognition Day and organizing high-profile meetings between the President and police leadership to counter anti-authority sentiment. Additionally, the President issued a directive to create a centralized, independent agency to tackle the national drug crisis, moving responsibilities away from HEW to improve accountability and treatment programs for military personnel.
President Nixon met with Hong Kong-based businessman Harold Lee and Henry Kissinger to solicit an expert perspective on the shifting geopolitical landscape in Asia. The discussion focused on U.S.-China relations, the motivations behind the People's Republic of China's recent diplomatic openness, and the broader, even-handed foreign policy Nixon intended to pursue between the USSR and China. Nixon and Kissinger also discussed the difficulties of maintaining U.S. alliances, specifically regarding Taiwan, while managing the pragmatic realities of global power dynamics.
On May 26, 1971, 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 5:20 pm and 5:21 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-024 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:17 pm and 6:33 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-139 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, 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 6:17 pm and 6:33 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-025 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 6:17 pm and 6:33 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-026 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, 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 6:17 pm and 6:33 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-027 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 6:33 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-140 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:33 pm and 6:42 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-141 of the White House Tapes.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 6:33 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-028 of the White House Tapes.