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 184 of 211President Nixon met with John B. Connally to discuss the administration's upcoming energy message, economic strategy, and the intensifying Watergate scandal. They assessed the political implications of the energy proposals, debated the effectiveness of selective price controls on inflation, and explored strategies for the White House staff to navigate the growing congressional investigations. A significant focus of the conversation involved potential legal and public relations responses to the scandal, including how key staff members like H.R. Haldeman should manage their testimony to mitigate political fallout.
On April 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 5:21 pm and 5:27 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 894-017 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to coordinate various administrative tasks, including scheduling commitments involving Hugh Scott’s anniversary and upcoming meetings with Italian Prime Minister Giulio Andreotti and Paul W. Keyes. During the session, the President prioritized obtaining feedback from John B. Connally regarding the administration's energy message. Nixon instructed Bull to expedite the delivery of a preliminary draft to Connally to ensure his prompt review and commentary.
On April 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 5:27 pm and 11:59 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 894-022 of the White House Tapes.
On April 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:55 pm and 7:31 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 044-157 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss the mounting political and media pressure surrounding the Watergate scandal and the need to restore confidence within the White House staff. Colson reports on recent positive public appearances and emphasizes that the administration must move past the scandal by focusing on its significant domestic and foreign policy achievements. The two agree on the necessity of a unified plan to address the crisis, and Nixon directs Colson to draft a paper outlining how to bring the Watergate matter to a definitive conclusion.
President Nixon and Stephen Bull met to coordinate the logistics and entertainment for upcoming White House events, including a State dinner for Willy Brandt and a major dinner honoring returning Prisoners of War (POWs). They discussed potential performers, scheduling challenges for large receptions, and the need for a formal press plan regarding the POW event. Additionally, Nixon directed that formal citations for the POWs be deferred due to pending legal and disciplinary reviews, while finalizing guest policies for the attendees.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:29 am and 8:49 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 895-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed administrative papers and discussed upcoming White House social programming. The conversation centered on achieving ethnic balance in these events and organizing a fundraising initiative for children of Missing in Action (MIA) servicemen. Nixon reviewed plans for a scholarship program involving celebrities like Sammy Davis, Jr. and Bob Hope to promote voluntary action and charitable efforts regarding Vietnam-era veterans.
President Nixon met with William E. Timmons to discuss the effectiveness of recent social gatherings for Congress members in fostering partisan support and building a stronger team atmosphere. The two reviewed attendance lists for White House receptions and religious services, strategizing on how to use "wildcard" invitations to include specific Republican and "responsible" Democratic lawmakers. Nixon also directed Timmons to refine the guest selection process for upcoming meetings on energy and trade issues, focusing on key committee leadership to ensure legislative priorities remained on track.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:04 am and 9:09 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 895-005 of the White House Tapes.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:04 am and 9:09 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 895-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Stephen Bull to review logistics regarding a recent appearance by the Mike Curb Congregation, specifically focusing on the president's interactions with new members and the children in attendance. Following Bull's departure, Nixon consulted with William Timmons to coordinate an urgent meeting with Otto Passman. The President directed Timmons to contact Passman regarding an unspecified matter and requested that no definitive decisions be finalized until Passman’s return.
President Nixon and John D. Ehrlichman coordinate communication efforts regarding Gordon C. Strachan’s recent interaction with prosecutor Earl J. Silbert. The President expresses concern over John Mitchell’s hardening stance and seeks further intelligence on the nature of the adjustments Strachan intended to make to his testimony or records. Ehrlichman is tasked with investigating the matter and providing a written report to the President through Steve Bull.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to coordinate the White House's legal and public relations strategy regarding the Watergate investigations, specifically addressing the Grand Jury's scrutiny of campaign funds and potential perjury by administration staff. Ehrlichman reported on his recent discussions with Attorney General Richard Kleindienst regarding immunity policies and the legal distinctions between illegal payoffs and legitimate campaign financial practices. They weighed options for managing White House testimony, including the potential for staff to issue sworn statements, the possible departure of John Dean, and the selection of new legal counsel to navigate the impending Ervin Committee hearings.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:47 am and 11:08 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 895-009 of the White House Tapes.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:47 am and 11:08 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 895-010 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with an aide to finalize the protocol and logistical arrangements for a courtesy call involving a group of Japanese governors. The discussion focused on scheduling a brief greeting in the Oval Office, followed by a walk in the Rose Garden to view the spring blooms and a subsequent tour led by Michael J. Farrell. Nixon explicitly directed that no press be present for the event, ensuring the engagement remained an informal visit.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discussed how to handle public inquiries regarding the President's continued medical treatment by Dr. W. Kenneth Riland following the doctor's legal issues. Haldeman expressed concern that maintaining the relationship while Riland faced tax-related indictments could create political vulnerability for the President, particularly regarding his role as the nation's chief law enforcement officer. Ultimately, the two strategized on how to discreetly manage Riland's access and public messaging to avoid unnecessary controversy.
President Nixon met with a delegation of Japanese governors and officials to discuss the strengthening of U.S.-Japan relations through localized diplomatic exchanges. The participants highlighted the importance of fostering ties beyond the national government level, specifically between state and local leaders, to better connect with the general public in both countries. Discussion touched upon the shift toward friendly economic competition and the long-term historical importance of bilateral cooperation. The meeting concluded with a photo opportunity in the Rose Garden to celebrate the spirit of international friendship.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed strategies for managing public perception, specifically addressing press coverage of the administration and the unfolding Watergate scandal. They reviewed potential public relations maneuvers, including a possible statement from Vice President Spiro Agnew to counter media narratives, while also weighing administrative appointments for the Federal Reserve and the Department of Labor. The conversation emphasized maintaining a unified front against hostile press inquiries and coordinating staff testimonies for upcoming grand jury appearances.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:40 am and 11:41 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 895-015 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with a delegation from the Frontiers of Science Foundation of Oklahoma, led by Edward King Gaylord and accompanied by Congressman John Jarman, to recognize the organization's contributions to scientific education and research. During the brief, ceremonial Oval Office session, Nixon commended the role of voluntary organizations in American life, arguing that private sector initiative often produces more value than government spending. The President presented the group with commemorative gifts and engaged in light conversation regarding his experiences with science education, his past visits to Oklahoma, and the logistical challenges of presidential communications via satellite.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at 11:50 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 895-017 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Herbert Klein and staff member Jeni Brown to formally acknowledge Brown’s departure from the White House staff. The brief session included a photograph to commemorate the occasion and a discussion regarding Brown’s future professional plans in California, specifically involving television and media work. Nixon offered encouragement for her career transition before presenting her with a parting gift.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at 11:53 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 895-019 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Secretary of Labor Peter J. Brennan and Kenneth R. Cole, Jr. to discuss political strategy regarding organized labor, specifically the administration's ongoing tensions with AFL-CIO leader George Meany. They reviewed the administration's legislative agenda, including the minimum wage, unemployment insurance for strike victims, and the Alaska Pipeline, while emphasizing the need to maintain strong support from the Building Trades unions. The discussion concluded with a focus on managing the President's upcoming appearance before labor groups and balancing the competing economic interests of labor and the business community.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman coordinate their schedules and discuss an ongoing meeting involving Charles Colson. The participants focus on the mounting political pressures surrounding the White House and investigate the substance and motivations behind Colson’s recent actions. The conversation serves as a preparatory session for later briefings regarding these unfolding external demands.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to strategize on the worsening Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on damaging allegations against White House staff members including H.R. Haldeman, Charles Colson, and John Dean. The two discussed the threat posed by Jeb Stuart Magruder's potential cooperation with investigators and his claims regarding a tape that allegedly implicated the White House in electronic eavesdropping and obstruction of justice. They weighed options for managing these threats, including hiring an independent special counsel and potentially discrediting Magruder or other witnesses to prevent the scandal from reaching the Oval Office.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:59 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 895-025 of the White House Tapes.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:28 pm and 2:46 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-002 of the White House Tapes.
This recording captures fragmented, brief exchanges between unidentified individuals and potentially President Nixon within the Oval Office and the Executive Office Building. The dialogue consists of administrative-sounding logistical checks, including numerical references and confirmation of arrangements. Due to the lack of identifying information and the disjointed nature of the transcript, no substantive policy discussions or significant presidential decisions are discernable.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman talked on the telephone from 2:46 pm to 2:47 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-003 of the White House Tapes.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:47 pm and 3:54 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-004 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman met to strategize on managing the Watergate fallout, focusing specifically on the damaging potential of testimony from Jeb Stuart Magruder and John W. Dean. The participants discussed the risk of indictments targeting former Attorney General John Mitchell and the necessity of keeping the White House insulated from criminal implications. They weighed the merits of asserting executive privilege versus allowing witnesses to testify, while expressing concern over the U.S. Attorney’s investigation and the strategic need to contain potential revelations before the Ervin Committee hearings commenced.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull talked on the telephone from 3:54 pm to 3:55 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-005 of the White House Tapes.
In this meeting, President Nixon discussed the ongoing Watergate investigation with John Ehrlichman, focusing on strategies for dealing with the Ervin Committee and managing testimony. Following Ehrlichman's departure, Henry Kissinger joined the President to review foreign policy concerns, specifically regarding potential military responses to North Vietnamese violations in South Vietnam. The participants also evaluated the political stability of Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev and discussed the progress of negotiations on a nuclear treaty ahead of a potential summit.
President Nixon, Henry Kissinger, and Joseph Sisco met to discuss a confidential diplomatic strategy for managing Middle East tensions through both formal channels and back-channel negotiations. The participants emphasized the necessity of maintaining secrecy and building psychological deterrence to manage Egyptian expectations and prevent military escalation, despite the intransigence of the Israeli government. Additionally, the President and Kissinger reviewed Sisco's potential future assignments, ultimately suggesting that his skills were best utilized in Washington to continue his active role in Middle East diplomacy rather than an ambassadorship in Moscow.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:42 pm and 5:07 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-006 of the White House Tapes.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and John D. Ehrlichman talked on the telephone from 5:07 pm to 5:08 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-007 of the White House Tapes.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:08 pm and 5:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-008 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the escalating Watergate crisis, focusing on the potential implications of Jeb Stuart Magruder’s expected testimony and the legal exposure of former Attorney General John Mitchell. Nixon expresses frustration over the uncertainty surrounding the involvement of his staff and stresses the necessity of facing the truth, comparing the situation to the political fallout surrounding Sherman Adams during the Eisenhower administration. Additionally, the two evaluate public opinion strategies and the importance of presidential travel to mitigate the damage caused by negative press coverage regarding the economy and the administration's legal troubles.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:58 pm and 6:00 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-010 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss diplomatic appointments, administration strategy, and foreign policy matters during a telephone call. They review potential ambassadorial assignments for Moscow, Thailand, and Pakistan, while also coordinating the President's upcoming schedule and meetings. Furthermore, they deliberate on Vietnam strategy, including the necessity of a coordinated planning process, and assess ongoing negotiations with the Soviet Union regarding the upcoming summit.
President Nixon and John D. Ehrlichman discussed the impending grand jury testimony of E. Howard Hunt, who was reportedly planning to implicate former Attorney General John Mitchell and White House associates in the Watergate affair. Ehrlichman detailed information from meetings with Charles Colson and David Shapiro regarding Hunt’s loss of faith in promised pardons and his potential to reveal details about a break-in at Hank Greenspun’s safe. The President and Ehrlichman analyzed the threat of Mitchell and Jeb Stuart Magruder cooperating with prosecutors, ultimately deciding to monitor the situation while contemplating how to handle the political fallout and potential allegations against the White House.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:31 pm and 6:44 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-013 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman discuss the internal legal maneuvering and shifting loyalties within the administration regarding the Watergate scandal. The participants analyze the credibility of Chuck Colson and the potential for various aides to cooperate with authorities to protect their own interests. They specifically deliberate on the reliability of transcripts and whether key figures like Colson and Jeb Stuart Magruder are prepared to testify truthfully or implicate others.
John D. Ehrlichman and President Nixon consulted on strategies to manage the escalating Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on how to influence or delay upcoming grand jury testimony from E. Howard Hunt. They discussed potential maneuvers to deflect attention from Charles Colson and explored the possibility of persuading John N. Mitchell to take responsibility for the campaign's actions to shield the White House. The pair agreed to review a more comprehensive set of options regarding witness management and legal strategy during a follow-up meeting the next morning.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:04 pm and 9:09 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 044-159 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with Stephen B. Bull and William E. Timmons to discuss concerns raised by Representative Otto Passman regarding foreign aid policy. Passman, who advocates for loans over grants, was scheduled to travel abroad, prompting the President to manage the legislator's expectations. Nixon directed that Henry Kissinger contact Passman before his departure to assure him that the administration would defer final decisions on foreign aid until after his return.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:44 am and 8:47 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-016 of the White House Tapes.
On April 14, 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 8:44 am and 8:47 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 428-015 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon coordinates his daily schedule with Stephen B. Bull, specifically setting times for meetings with Alexander M. Haig, Jr., Henry Kissinger, and Paul W. Keyes. Nixon also plans an appearance at Pat Nixon’s garden tour at 2:00 p.m. for photographic purposes. Finally, he requests that Bull locate H. R. Haldeman and John D. Ehrlichman to arrange a joint meeting with them later that morning.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 8:47 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 428-016 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon instructed his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to coordinate meetings with Henry Kissinger and Bob Haldeman. The President requested that a meeting with Hayes be scheduled around 11:00 a.m. and directed Bull to contact relevant staff to confirm the availability of others, including Art, for morning appointments.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:49 am and 8:54 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-018 of the White House Tapes.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 8:49 am to 8:54 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 428-018 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with top aides John Ehrlichman, H.R. Haldeman, John Dean, and others to discuss the escalating Watergate scandal, including potential testimony from key figures like E. Howard Hunt and the legal strategies for dealing with the Senate Watergate Committee. They also touched upon foreign policy matters, specifically the situation in Vietnam and Cambodia, and debated the best approach to manage the unfolding crisis, weighing options like cooperation with investigators versus stonewalling. The conversation revealed deep concern over the potential legal and political fallout, with a focus on damage control and preserving the presidency.
President Nixon and Secretary of Defense Elliot L. Richardson discussed a public relations strategy to counter criticism regarding recent military base closures. Nixon advised Richardson to quantify the long-term budgetary savings, framing the closures as evidence of a lean defense budget to pressure liberal critics who simultaneously demand defense cuts and the retention of local bases. Richardson agreed to implement this messaging strategy to highlight the hypocrisy of those opposing the administration's fiscal austerity.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:00 am and 10:49 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-020 of the White House Tapes.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull talked on the telephone from 10:49 am to 10:50 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-021 of the White House Tapes.
John Dean contacted John Ehrlichman to report that he had arrived and was available to talk, indicating there were no significant new developments beyond their last conversation. Dean mentioned he had been "brooding" and had some thoughts he believed Ehrlichman would want to record. Ehrlichman agreed to meet with Dean later that morning. President Nixon could be heard conferring with Charles Colson in the background.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and unknown person(s) talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:50 am and 11:33 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-024 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon instructed Stephen B. Bull to reschedule his lunch meeting with Paul W. Keyes due to unexpected demands regarding national security matters. Nixon initially suggested meeting after the White House correspondents' event, but ultimately pivoted to scheduling a brief chat following the 2:00 pm garden tour. The brief exchange highlights the President's efforts to balance social obligations with pressing executive responsibilities.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:30 pm and 12:53 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-026 of the White House Tapes.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull talked on the telephone from 12:53 pm to 12:54 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-027 of the White House Tapes.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 12:53 pm to 12:54 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 428-020 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, in the Old Executive Office Building to coordinate his personal schedule. The discussion focused primarily on logistical arrangements for the President’s afternoon, specifically confirming plans for his lunch and a nap. No significant political or policy decisions were reached during this brief administrative interaction.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to coordinate the President's upcoming schedule and address personal matters. The discussion centered on logistics for Pat Nixon’s garden tour and an update regarding a conversation between Bebe Rebozo and John Hutton, a Presbyterian minister. Bull provided these administrative details to ensure the President remained informed of both official engagements and private social communications.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, in the Old Executive Office Building for a brief administrative interaction. The primary purpose of the meeting involved the routine delivery and removal of a lunch tray. No policy discussions took place, as the exchange focused exclusively on these personal service duties.
On April 14, 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 12:54 pm and 4:58 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 428-024 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with William E. Timmons to discuss items in the President's outbox. The conversation was brief, with Nixon instructing Timmons to place an item in the outbox. No significant decisions or action items beyond this administrative task were recorded.
On April 14, 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 12:54 pm and 4:58 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 428-026 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with an aide to coordinate his participation in a Rose Garden tour hosted by First Lady Pat Nixon for student contest winners. They discussed the logistics of the event, specifically mapping out the President’s route, his interaction with the press, and the placement of attendees. The discussion concluded with a plan for the President to exit his office and proceed through the hall to join the tour participants.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to coordinate the President's schedule and manage the availability of key advisors. The conversation focused on the logistics of upcoming meetings involving John Mitchell, H.R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman, particularly regarding discussions with Jeb Stuart Magruder. Nixon explicitly clarified his desire to avoid a meeting with Mitchell, directing Bull to adjust the schedule accordingly.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 1:52 pm and 2:13 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 896-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with an unidentified individual, H. R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman to coordinate the logistics and press coverage for First Lady Pat Nixon’s upcoming Rose Garden tour. The participants discussed the President's itinerary and his role in following the First Lady to ensure appropriate photography opportunities. The conversation focused on managing the public appearance and scheduling the President's movements to accommodate media presence.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and others met to strategize regarding the escalating legal and political fallout of the Watergate scandal. The discussion centered on the decision of Jeb Stuart Magruder to cooperate with prosecutors and the potential for his testimony to implicate other high-level officials, including John Mitchell. The participants debated how to manage the public narrative, protect the President's standing, and navigate the implications of Senate hearings and grand jury proceedings while considering legal strategies for those facing impending indictments.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:55 pm and 4:58 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-028 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon discussed their respective evening schedules and the success of the ongoing White House garden tour. Pat Nixon reported a high volume of positive attendee engagement, particularly noting the demeanor of the guests, while the President coordinated a meal plan due to his need to continue drafting remarks. They concluded by confirming logistics for David and Julie Eisenhower's attendance at the upcoming White House Correspondents’ dinner.
President Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon briefly discussed the logistics and timing for an upcoming public appearance. They confirmed their departure schedule for the event, ensuring they would be ready to leave by 8:45. This brief interaction served to synchronize their plans for the evening's commitment.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to discuss the escalating legal and political fallout surrounding the Watergate scandal. The participants weighed the risks of ongoing investigations, particularly focusing on potential obstruction of justice charges against key figures like John Mitchell and the strategy of preempting further disclosures by "beating them to the punch." Nixon expressed urgency regarding the need to conclude the scandal quickly to prevent it from dominating his administration, contemplating potential resignations and the necessity of managing the public narrative.
Julie Nixon Eisenhower and President Nixon coordinated logistics for their upcoming attendance at the White House correspondents’ dinner. They discussed the arrival time for the President and his guests, which included Bebe Rebozo and David Eisenhower. The participants agreed to skip the pre-dinner cocktail party and expressed skepticism regarding whether the event organizers would be prepared for the President's scheduled arrival at 8:45 p.m.
On April 14, 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 6:45 pm and 8:11 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 428-029 of the White House Tapes.
On April 14, 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 6:45 pm and 8:11 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 428-030 of the White House Tapes.
On April 14, 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 6:45 pm and 8:11 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 428-031 of the White House Tapes.
On April 14, 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 6:45 pm and 8:11 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 428-032 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon dictates a memorandum for his personal files to address the ongoing investigation into the Watergate scandal. He focuses on establishing a consistent narrative regarding the administration's involvement while emphasizing the inherently bizarre and unusual nature of the initial incident. This dictation serves as an effort to organize his perspective on the complex developments surrounding the unfolding crisis.
President Nixon dictated a memorandum to the file regarding his schedule, specifically mentioning Camp David. He also referenced filing this dictation and alluded to a federal agency, though the specifics remain unclear from the provided segment. The purpose of this dictation appears to be for personal record-keeping and reflection on his activities and potential governmental matters.
President Nixon met with his personal aide, Manolo Sanchez, to discuss administrative matters, including the filing of the President's private papers. The two also addressed the President's schedule and his assessment regarding his attendance at the upcoming White House Correspondents' Dinner. Nixon expressed doubt about the event's arrangements, ultimately indicating a change in his plans.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:28 pm and 11:02 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-033 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the aftermath of the White House correspondents' dinner and the escalating legal and political challenges posed by the Watergate investigation. Nixon expresses concern regarding testimony from Jeb Magruder and seeks advice on how to manage potential public testimony from his staff, specifically whether to concede to public, televised hearings. Ultimately, Nixon directs Haldeman to consult with William Rogers and John Connally to gauge their opinions on how the administration should handle these appearances and navigate the growing legal pressure.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:16 pm and 11:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-035 of the White House Tapes.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:16 pm and 11:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-036 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss a strategy to manage the deepening Watergate scandal, focusing on the potential indictment of John Mitchell and the handling of White House staff implicated in the investigation. The President expresses a desire to move toward a more public, forthcoming stance, including potentially waiving executive privilege to allow staff to testify, in order to combat leaks and manage the narrative. They also plan to coordinate with Press Secretary Ron Ziegler and address the upcoming testimony of Jeb Magruder to protect the administration's interests while maintaining the appearance of a thorough internal inquiry.
On April 15, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:45 am and 1:01 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-038 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discussed the positive reception of the President's recent remarks at the White House correspondents' dinner, specifically noting the emotional impact on attendees regarding the POWs and the substance of the speech. While Ziegler reported that the event was largely free of Watergate-related tension, Nixon expressed anxiety that the upcoming indictment of John Mitchell would escalate the scandal. The conversation concluded with Nixon emphasizing the importance of maintaining his public stance against critics despite the impending legal pressures.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to discuss the administration's public relations strategy amid the escalating Watergate scandal and concerns over the President's public approval ratings. They evaluated the political impact of recent press coverage, including articles by Jules Witcover and Haynes Johnson, and explored potential staffing changes, specifically regarding the employment of Nicholas Thimmesch. Furthermore, the two analyzed economic policy and communication, with Ehrlichman proposing the appointment of a dedicated Treasury spokesperson to better manage public perception of Phase III economic controls.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and Richard G. Kleindienst talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:12 pm and 2:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-040 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:22 pm and 3:27 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-042 of the White House Tapes.