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 185 of 211President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the administration’s strategy for handling the mounting Watergate scandal, specifically debating whether to cooperate with congressional investigations or rely on the judicial process. They weigh the potential impact of high-level indictments and deliberate on the appointment of a special prosecutor to ensure the investigation remains thorough and credible. Nixon ultimately concludes that maintaining confidence in the American judicial system, rather than engaging in a high-profile public defense, is the best path to restore public trust.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:44 pm and 3:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-044 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Richard G. Kleindienst talked on the telephone from 3:48 pm to 3:49 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-045 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at 3:50 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-046 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1973, Henry E. Petersen, White House operator, and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:00 pm and 5:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-047 of the White House Tapes.
Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen confers with prosecutors Earl Silbert and Charles Shaffer regarding the ongoing Watergate investigation and the credibility of key witnesses. The participants evaluate conflicting accounts from John Dean and Gordon Strachan, specifically focusing on the involvement of H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman in managing hush money and obstructing the investigation. The conversation concludes with administrative arrangements for an in-person meeting at Petersen’s home to further coordinate their legal strategy.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:00 pm and 5:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-049 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at 5:17 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-050 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Attorney General Richard Kleindienst discuss the escalating Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the emerging testimony of Jeb Stuart Magruder and the potential legal jeopardy of top White House officials H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. They weigh the necessity of appointing a special prosecutor or delegating oversight to Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen to avoid conflicts of interest, particularly given Kleindienst's close personal association with John Mitchell. The conversation highlights the administration's concern over obstruction of justice allegations and the need to restore public confidence in the Justice Department without preemptively assuming guilt or forcing resignations.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:43 pm and 8:14 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-051 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen discussed the status of negotiations with John Dean, who refused to enter a plea unless H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman were also prosecuted. Petersen briefed the President on Dean’s attempt to communicate via a note and his potential desire to meet with Ehrlichman. To resolve the matter, Nixon authorized a direct meeting with Dean to demand the full truth and agreed to pressure G. Gordon Liddy to cooperate by signaling that the President expected complete disclosure.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and unknown person(s) talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:18 pm and 8:25 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-054 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen discuss the need to ensure full cooperation and transparency from individuals involved in the Watergate investigation, specifically G. Gordon Liddy. Nixon directs Petersen to convey that the President wants all parties to testify truthfully and rejects the notion that Liddy’s silence is due to presidential influence or protection. Petersen agrees to contact Liddy’s legal counsel immediately to emphasize that the President expects full disclosure from everyone involved.
On April 15, 1973, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman, White House operator, and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:26 pm and 9:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-056 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and John D. Ehrlichman talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:17 pm and 9:39 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-057 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen discussed securing the cooperation of G. Gordon Liddy’s attorney, Peter Maroulis, regarding the Watergate investigation. Emphasizing a desire for full disclosure, Nixon directed Petersen to instruct Maroulis that his client must reveal everything he knows about the scandal. The President preferred that Petersen handle the communication personally to maintain professional distance, though he remained willing to meet with the attorney directly if the initial effort failed to produce the desired result.
On April 15, 1973, John D. Ehrlichman, White House operator, and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:16 pm and 11:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-061 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 10:16 pm and 11:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-063 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen regarding the strategic timing for the resignations of John Dean, H.R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman amid the deepening Watergate investigation. Petersen advised the President to delay these resignations to avoid interfering with ongoing prosecutorial efforts and to ensure that potential testimony could be woven into a coherent legal narrative. The two also discussed the status of various witnesses, including Jeb Stuart Magruder, and the importance of coordinating their actions to maintain control over the evolving situation.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to coordinate the President's upcoming schedule, specifically focusing on managing high-stakes meetings with key figures including John W. Dean III, George P. Shultz, and Henry E. Peterson. Nixon expressed a desire to limit his direct involvement in certain sessions while emphasizing the need for extended time with specific individuals. The discussion concluded with instructions regarding the logistics and staging of these meetings at the Executive Office Building.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:24 am and 9:50 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 897-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to strategize their response to the escalating Watergate investigation and the upcoming deposition of John Dean. The group discussed managing public perception through a potential White House-led announcement, while specifically addressing legal vulnerabilities regarding “plumbing” operations, unauthorized wiretaps, and the extent of the President's knowledge. They focused on establishing a consistent narrative that would distance the President from illegal activities, particularly by framing past surveillance as national security matters and attributing unauthorized actions to subordinates like John Mitchell.
President Nixon met with John Dean and Stephen Bull to discuss the potential resignations of Dean, H.R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman in light of ongoing investigations. Nixon sought Dean's advice on the best way to handle these resignations, whether as a leave of absence or outright resignation, and stressed the need to have these documents in hand to manage the public relations aspect of the unfolding Watergate scandal. Dean agreed to draft resignation letters for himself and the others, and they also discussed the legal complexities and the importance of truthfulness in testimony.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to coordinate the scheduling of an upcoming address to the building trades unions. They discussed logistical delays and decided to adjust the departure time to accommodate a shift of approximately 15 minutes. The conversation focused on ensuring the President arrived appropriately for the event in coordination with George P. Shultz.
President Nixon instructed his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to postpone a scheduled meeting with Arthur F. Burns and George P. Shultz. The President cited urgent national security matters as the reason for his unavailability and limited the upcoming session with them to 30 minutes. This directive reflects the President's attempt to manage his schedule amidst the increasing pressures of the escalating Watergate scandal.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:40 am and 10:50 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 897-007 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to finalize scheduling arrangements for an upcoming Building Trade Association conference. They reviewed the logistics for the event, including Nixon’s attendance at a VIP reception involving Secretary of Labor Peter J. Brennan. Nixon directed Bull to coordinate with Kenneth R. Cole, Jr. to ensure the President was briefed on the delay of the event and the specific protocol for his appearance.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman met to coordinate a narrative regarding their management of the Watergate investigation. They reviewed the timeline of recent events, specifically emphasizing the President's actions to uncover facts after becoming dissatisfied with the John Dean report. The participants strategized on how to frame these developments to legal authorities and the public, focusing on the decision to involve the Attorney General and the handling of potential witnesses like Mitchell and Magruder.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to review and adjust the President's upcoming schedule, specifically focusing on managing high-level meetings and administrative commitments. Key discussions included the reorganization of energy policy briefings, the coordination of bipartisan congressional meetings, and logistical arrangements for upcoming events and film messages. Nixon instructed Bull to clear his immediate agenda to manage his workload and prioritize interactions with key economic and legislative leaders.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman meet to strategize their public and legal response to the escalating Watergate scandal. They evaluate proposals from advisors, including Len Garment and John Ehrlichman, regarding whether the President should make a dramatic public admission or resign to protect the office of the presidency. Ultimately, they decide to solicit further written recommendations from Garment before meeting with William Rogers, maintaining a cautious approach to avoid impulsive actions that could jeopardize their legal standing.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:31 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 897-012 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with representatives from Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), including Tom Pike and Caspar Weinberger, to accept a ceremonial gift of the organization's one-millionth published book. The participants discussed the organization’s redemptive work, the prevalence of alcoholism in various sectors of society and the military, and the importance of recovery efforts. During the exchange, Nixon shared his own personal habits, emphasizing that he abstains from alcohol before public speaking or major responsibilities to maintain peak performance.
President Nixon met with Rotary International President Roy D. Hickman and W. Richard Howard to discuss Hickman’s recent global travels and the role of Rotary in fostering world peace. Hickman shared observations on the positive international reception of Nixon’s foreign policy, specifically his trips to China and the Soviet Union, and discussed the importance of voluntary community service in promoting American values abroad. The conversation concluded with an exchange of gifts and a reaffirmation of the organization’s commitment to bridging political divides.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:57 pm and 12:58 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 897-015 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Ronald Ziegler discussed how to manage the escalating Watergate scandal and the mounting pressure from press coverage, specifically reports involving the Washington Post and the Ervin Committee. They debated whether to pursue a strategy of "minimum action"—relying on the Department of Justice and limiting personnel changes—or a "bold play" involving the public removal of key staff like H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and John Dean. Ultimately, Nixon emphasized that he required full, candid information from his aides and considered relying on Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen to handle the unfolding investigations while avoiding a premature or ineffective special prosecutor.
President Nixon met with Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen to coordinate the ongoing Watergate investigation and manage the political fallout. The discussion focused on securing a plea deal for Jeb Stuart Magruder and navigating the potential resignations of John Dean, H.R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman. Nixon and Petersen strategized on how the President should publicly characterize his personal inquiry into the matter to ensure the investigation appeared to be under control without prematurely triggering resignations or jeopardizing future prosecutions.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at 2:19 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-065 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at 3:25 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-066 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Ronald L. Ziegler talked on the telephone from 3:25 pm to 3:26 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-067 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and John D. Ehrlichman met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 3:25 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 427-003 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 3:25 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 427-004 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Ronald L. Ziegler met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 3:25 pm to 3:26 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 427-005 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman and Ronald Ziegler to navigate the growing legal and public relations pressures surrounding the Watergate investigation. The discussion focused on coordinating a response to grand jury subpoenas, managing potential testimony from White House staff, and negotiating ground rules for committee hearings. Nixon emphasized the need for a unified strategy while expressing concern over the implications of public testimony and potential leaks, ultimately deciding to delay any major public announcement to avoid jeopardizing ongoing legal proceedings.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at 4:04 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-068 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and John W. Dean, III talked on the telephone from 4:04 pm to 4:05 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-069 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 4:04 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 427-007 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon briefly spoke with John Dean, asking him to come over to the Oval Office due to a scheduling delay. The conversation was very short and appears to be a logistical arrangement for Dean to meet with Nixon shortly. Stephen Bull was also present in the office before Dean arrived.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:05 pm and 4:42 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-070 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 4:06 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 427-009 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Dean met to discuss the drafting of a public statement intended to address the mounting Watergate-related legal pressures facing the White House. The conversation centered on the potential risks of appearing to prejudge staff members, the complexities of managing public perception regarding internal investigations, and the need to insulate the President from specific illicit schemes. They specifically addressed the optics of staff members testifying before the grand jury and considered various ways to present these actions to the public without creating a liability or a perception of scapegoating.
President Nixon spoke with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, to inform her that he would be unavailable that evening due to his need for rest. The two also briefly discussed the upcoming state dinner for Italian Prime Minister Giulio Andreotti. Julie confirmed that preparations were complete and noted the high level of public interest and demand for attendance at the event.
President Nixon met briefly with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, to inform her of his impending busy schedule and personal commitments. The pair exchanged brief pleasantries regarding her current activities and upcoming plans. The conversation serves primarily as a personal check-in between family members amidst the intensifying pressures of the administration.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:55 pm and 5:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-072 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:55 pm and 6:01 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-074 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:55 pm and 8:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-076 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:55 pm and 8:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-077 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with William Rogers to discuss the unfolding Watergate scandal, focusing on the potential testimony of John Dean, Jeb Magruder, and John Mitchell. They reviewed the role of Henry Petersen in the investigation, the disposition of materials from E. Howard Hunt Jr.'s safe, and the implications of Dean's negotiations with prosecutors. The conversation also touched upon President Nixon's schedule and potential actions, including involving Leonard Garment.
On April 16, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at 8:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-078 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:45 pm and 8:58 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-080 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:45 pm and 8:58 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-081 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 8:45 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 427-014 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 8:45 pm and 8:58 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 427-015 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 8:45 pm and 8:58 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 427-016 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen discussed ongoing developments in the Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the testimonies of key figures like Frederick LaRue, John Dean, and H.R. Haldeman. They reviewed the logistical and legal challenges of naming top aides as unindicted co-conspirators and the potential implications of Judge Sirica’s likely courtroom interrogations. Petersen updated the President on negotiations for immunity and cooperation, while Nixon expressed frustration regarding information Dean failed to disclose to him previously.
President Nixon met with Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen to discuss the ongoing investigation into the Watergate scandal and its potential impact on his administration. The two focused on the necessity of managing the investigation's pace and gathering sufficient facts to justify legal proceedings. Nixon emphasized the importance of staying informed on developments and coordinating communication to avoid jeopardizing the integrity of the prosecution.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:18 am and 9:19 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-083 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:18 am and 9:19 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Dean discussed the Watergate investigation, specifically the approach being taken by Leonard Garment and the potential impact of public statements. Nixon expressed concern about damaging the case, referencing a conversation with Henry Petersen and the reluctance to make statements that could be misconstrued. They also touched upon Jeb Stuart Magruder's upcoming statement and the judicial procedures involved, with Nixon asking Dean to research the constitutional implications of confessing in open court. Nixon encouraged Dean, acknowledging the difficult circumstances.
President Nixon and John Dean met briefly to discuss the legal strategy and potential fallout from the Watergate investigation, specifically concerning the upcoming court proceedings and statements from individuals like McCord. Nixon sought Dean's assessment of the best approach to manage the situation and its public perception, while Dean indicated that certain key developments, like McCord's statement, were still pending. They agreed to meet again later that day to further discuss the matter.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:25 am and 9:30 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Leonard Garment met to strategize on managing the escalating Watergate scandal and its impact on the administration's credibility. Garment advised the President to act preemptively by issuing a brief, clear public statement that would distance him from the unfolding crisis and the individuals involved, including H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and John Dean. They also discussed the necessity of potentially suspending key staffers involved in the investigation to mitigate political damage and restore public confidence.
On April 17, 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 9:47 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-005 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss the urgent need for a strategic public relations move regarding the escalating Watergate scandal. They reviewed the growing pressure from the U.S. Attorney’s office and problematic accounts provided by John Dean, specifically regarding the destruction of evidence and the alleged involvement of Charles Colson and L. Patrick Gray. Nixon and Haldeman concluded that the administration needed to proactively disclose information by 3:00 p.m. to regain control of the narrative before further leaks or accusations from prosecutors occurred.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Thelma C. ("Pat") (Ryan) Nixon met in the Oval Office of the White House from 9:59 am to 10:00 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-007 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Italian Prime Minister Giulio Andreotti and his delegation to discuss the status of the Atlantic Alliance, the volatile geopolitical situation in the Middle East, and planning for the President's upcoming "Year of Europe" visit. The two leaders emphasized the necessity of maintaining military strength and unity within NATO amid pressures from shifting European public opinion and potential superpower detente. Additionally, Nixon and Andreotti exchanged views on navigating Italian domestic political challenges and coordinated on upcoming bilateral discussions regarding trade and economic policy.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:19 pm and 12:35 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-009 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:19 pm and 12:35 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-010 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:19 pm and 12:35 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-011 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:19 pm and 12:35 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-028 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to discuss the Watergate investigation, specifically the potential for John Dean to receive immunity and the implications for the presidency. They debated strategies for dealing with Dean, including the possibility of his suspension or dismissal, and the political ramifications of granting immunity to White House staff. The conversation also touched upon the visit of Italian Prime Minister Giulio Andreotti and the political advantages of including John Volpe in the discussions.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:20 pm and 2:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-013 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:20 pm and 2:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-014 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:20 pm and 2:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-015 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Ronald L. Ziegler met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:20 pm and 2:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-016 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:20 pm and 2:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-017 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:20 pm and 2:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-018 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:30 pm and 2:39 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-085 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman coordinated the talking points for Nixon’s upcoming meeting with Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen regarding the Watergate investigation. They established a firm policy against granting immunity to top White House officials, such as John Dean and Charles Colson, while remaining open to immunity for lower-level staffers like Gordon Strachan. Furthermore, they clarified personnel policies regarding suspensions upon indictment and resignations upon conviction, while also planning to confront Petersen about the political damage caused by ongoing leaks from the grand jury.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discussed the administration's strategic position regarding legal immunity and potential grand jury indictments for individuals involved in the Watergate scandal. They reached a consensus on adopting a firm policy that excludes immunity for key figures while allowing for flexibility in cases involving corroborating evidence. This brief exchange served to finalize the President's directives for Ehrlichman to convey during his upcoming discussions with Henry Petersen at the Department of Justice.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:40 pm and 2:46 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-020 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen to discuss the accelerating Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the status of John Dean, H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and Jeb Magruder. They deliberated on the potential for upcoming indictments, the legal complexities of naming unindicted co-conspirators, and the strategic risks associated with granting immunity to key figures. Nixon emphasized his desire to distance himself from the legal process while maintaining control over the political fallout, ultimately finalizing a policy that any staff member formally indicted or credibly implicated in public proceedings would be required to resign or take an indefinite leave of absence.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Lawrence M. Higby met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 3:49 pm and 3:50 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-022 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 3:49 pm and 3:50 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-025 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman coordinated with William Timmons to communicate the administration's forthcoming Watergate-related statement to Senator Sam Ervin and Senator Howard Baker. Ehrlichman directed Timmons to read specific portions of the document to both senators rather than soliciting their feedback. This action reflects the White House’s attempt to manage congressional expectations and control the narrative surrounding the President’s impending public announcement.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to draft a public statement addressing the growing Watergate scandal and the ongoing Justice Department investigation. The participants discussed how to frame the President's involvement, specifically referencing his initiation of a new inquiry on March 21, while debating the political risks of suspending staff members versus waiting for potential indictments. Ultimately, the group sought to project a narrative of progress in uncovering the truth without compromising their legal standing or appearing to cover up misconduct.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and Ronald Ziegler to formulate strategies for handling impending legal challenges and potential grand jury testimony related to the Watergate scandal. The discussion focused on managing John Dean's shifting narrative, coordinating with legal counsel, and determining whether to assert executive privilege regarding White House communications. Participants deliberated on the political implications of requesting leaves of absence and the anticipated public pressure from impending congressional hearings.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler coordinate the administration's public messaging regarding the ongoing Watergate investigation. They discuss how to address press inquiries concerning John Dean's role and the validity of Nixon's previous August 29th statement about White House staff involvement. Nixon instructs Ziegler to emphasize that the President is managing the matter directly with Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen and to avoid further commentary that could interfere with the judicial process.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 4:35 pm and 4:41 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 899-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler met to discuss the escalating Watergate scandal and the problematic roles of key staff members, specifically John Dean, H.R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman. They evaluated the political risks of potential legal developments, such as the naming of staff as unindicted co-conspirators, while rejecting the idea of a massive, premature purge of White House personnel. The conversation concluded with the President instructing Ziegler to contact Dean to manage the administration's public narrative and address concerns regarding leaks.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:03 pm and 6:17 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-089 of the White House Tapes.