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 19 of 211On 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 6:33 pm and 6:42 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-029 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the strategic importance of U.S. relations with the People's Republic of China, emphasizing the Chinese leadership's long-range geopolitical thinking. Nixon contrasts this perspective with the more tactical approach of the Soviet Union while advising Kissinger on logistical arrangements for his potential upcoming trip to Asia. The brief consultation serves as a high-level assessment of the diplomatic climate regarding the administration's outreach to Beijing.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss various administrative priorities, focusing on the successful defeat of the Harold Hughes pay amendment and positive economic indicators. They review legislative progress, including federal efforts regarding New York City police, and coordinate upcoming meetings on drug policy involving John Ehrlichman and J. Edgar Hoover. Additionally, they finalize the decision to postpone the President's press conference to a Tuesday to maximize Nielsen ratings.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss administrative updates, including a scheduled meeting with Congressman Glenn Earthman regarding drug policy and the progress of internal efforts involving J. Edgar Hoover and John Mitchell. They also evaluate the political impact of recent foreign policy stances on NATO and the Soviet Union, with Haldeman noting potential influence on congressional support. The conversation concludes with a brief assessment of current market trends and upcoming scheduling logistics.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss diplomatic personnel, legislative strategy, and the administration's broader foreign policy messaging. Nixon praised the integrity of Ambassador David K. E. Bruce, specifically highlighting him as the ideal candidate for potential future negotiations regarding the People's Republic of China. Additionally, the two discussed the administration's recent victory in defeating the Harold E. Hughes pay amendment in the Senate and Nixon's desire to shift the public narrative away from Vietnam to focus on the future of U.S. relations with the USSR, China, and the domestic economy.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:50 pm and 6:58 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-144 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Butterfield met to discuss administrative scheduling, specifically evaluating whether the President should attend an Office of Strategic Services (OSS) convention event honoring David K. E. Bruce. Nixon declined to attend the award ceremony but expressed interest in other potential engagement opportunities. Additionally, the pair coordinated an upcoming phone call to J. Edgar Hoover and discussed personnel appointments, including the invitation of Donald L. Jackson to the Interstate Commerce Commission.
President Nixon and FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover discussed the need for an aggressive legal and investigative strategy regarding individuals apprehended for violent acts against police officers. Expressing frustration over lawlessness, the President directed the Attorney General to prioritize the collection of unlimited security information and confirmed plans for a meeting with law enforcement leaders. Nixon also signaled his intention to address a police academy as part of a broader effort to emphasize a tough stance on crime, explicitly rejecting sociological justifications for criminal behavior.
President Nixon and FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover discussed the recent targeted killings of New York City police officers and the strategy to apprehend the perpetrators. Nixon directed Hoover to utilize unlimited intelligence-gathering resources and coordinate with Attorney General John Mitchell to ensure full FBI cooperation. Additionally, Hoover outlined plans for upcoming conferences with national police leadership to address the violence and bolster law enforcement response.
President Nixon and J. Edgar Hoover discussed strategies for strengthening public support for law enforcement and the military amidst ongoing anti-war protests and civil unrest. The President emphasized the need for a national narrative that frames service and law enforcement as pillars of societal stability, contrasting this with the negative portrayal of such institutions by media and protest movements. They further explored legislative ideas, including potential federal benefits for the families of slain police officers, as part of an effort to bolster morale and public respect for those in uniform.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:01 pm and 7:10 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-146 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 7:01 pm and 7:10 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-036 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, in the Old Executive Office Building for a brief informal exchange. The conversation focused on the President's personal dining preferences and his enjoyment of a recent meal. No significant policy developments or official administrative decisions were addressed during this short interaction.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 7:10 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-147 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 7:10 pm and 7:35 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-148 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 7:10 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-038 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 7:10 pm and 7:35 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-039 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 7:10 pm and 7:35 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-040 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, in the Old Executive Office Building for a brief, informal check-in. The discussion primarily centered on routine household and personal management, including commands for the President’s Irish Setter, King Timahoe, and a request for television access to watch a baseball game. The two also briefly touched upon logistics regarding an upcoming Florida trip and Sanchez’s personal work schedule.
President Nixon contacted National Endowment for the Arts Chairperson Nancy Hanks to congratulate her following his recent speech at an arts event. Hanks reported a highly positive reception from the audience regarding the President’s remarks and her own leadership. Nixon emphasized that the primary challenge moving forward is the effective implementation and distribution of arts funding rather than simply securing the budget.
On May 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 7:35 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-042 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon spoke with National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Chair Nancy Hanks to congratulate her on the successful outcome of her day's activities. The discussion centered on the importance of effectively distributing NEA funding rather than simply securing appropriations. Nixon expressed his full support for the agency’s efforts, emphasizing that while he provides the resources, Hanks deserves the credit for the program's success.
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 7:36 pm and 9:39 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 253-044 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, to attend to routine domestic tasks and the care of the President's dog, King. The discussion focused on managing the logistics of the President's personal environment and animal care. No significant policy or administrative decisions were made during this brief interaction.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:25 am and 9:33 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 504-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, Henry Kissinger, and others to discuss administrative matters, including the President's recent Southern trip, press strategy, and upcoming state visits. The group reviewed the success of the President's recent tour, debated the merits of using certificates of appreciation to bolster local support, and strategized on how to better leverage public relations for administration priorities like the drug crisis. Furthermore, the President and Kissinger discussed the ongoing Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT), with Nixon emphasizing the need to adopt a hardline stance toward the Soviet Union to ensure progress before any potential summit.
President Nixon, First Lady Pat Nixon, and Alexander Butterfield met briefly in the Oval Office to coordinate the placement of a gift received from King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. The participants discussed whether the item should be displayed in the White House or transferred to the presidential library. They ultimately concluded the session by formalizing plans for the gift's handling and display.
President Nixon met with King Faisal of Saudi Arabia to discuss bilateral relations and the escalating instability in the Middle East. The King expressed deep concern regarding the influence of Zionism and Communism in the region, arguing that they often act as destabilizing forces that threaten U.S.-Saudi interests. Nixon reiterated his commitment to an even-handed Middle East policy, emphasizing that his administration sought to normalize relations with all regional states and pursue a durable peace settlement rather than just interim measures like the proposed reopening of the Suez Canal.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:52 am and 11:54 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 504-005 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon hosted a series of brief meetings in the Oval Office to recognize the service of several individuals, including Admiral R. C. Robinson, Jack T. Cole, and long-serving government employee Carson Howell, often presenting them with commemorative gifts. During these sessions, the President discussed his opposition to the legalization of marijuana and orchestrated various photo opportunities for his guests. Additionally, Nixon met with Catherine May Bedell and Peter G. Peterson to discuss her nomination to the U.S. Tariff Commission, emphasizing the need for her to work closely with his administration and maintain direct communication with his key advisors.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:05 pm and 12:10 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 504-007 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and later Henry Kissinger to navigate sensitive political scheduling and high-stakes foreign policy dilemmas. The group discussed managing state visits, including the logistical and political optics of hosting King Faisal and Anastasio Somoza, while also deliberating on the timing of a presidential press conference and potential meetings with congressional leadership. A significant portion of the session focused on the 'Two Chinas' issue, where the President weighed the risk of losing Taiwan's United Nations seat against the diplomatic consequences of shifting U.S. policy toward the People's Republic of China. Ultimately, Nixon directed his team to stall for time, opting for noncommittal consultations with allies while prioritizing the preservation of existing diplomatic postures.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met briefly to coordinate administrative logistics regarding upcoming meetings with William P. Rogers and Henry A. Kissinger. The discussion focused on scheduling these high-level briefings and managing internal communication protocols. Butterfield confirmed the status of necessary documentation, ensuring the President's agenda was prepared before departing.
President Nixon and personal secretary Rose Mary Woods briefly consulted regarding the logistics of an upcoming evening engagement, specifically checking on an individual's itinerary and planned activities. Nixon sought clarity on the status of this individual's participation to determine how best to proceed with scheduling or campaign-related involvement. The discussion concluded without a definitive decision, as the President remained uncertain about the appropriate course of action for this person's role.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and Alexander Butterfield met to coordinate the President's upcoming schedule, specifically balancing congressional social engagements with official duties. They discussed the logistics of a congressional mixer and the necessity of rescheduling certain events to accommodate a visit from Nicaraguan President Anastasio Somoza Debayle. The group decided to shift the congressional event to the following week to ensure proper planning and to account for the President’s travel to California.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met in the Oval Office of the White House at 2:42 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 504-012 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to strategize on two critical foreign policy initiatives: the pursuit of Mutual and Balanced Force Reductions (MBFR) in Europe and the shifting U.S. approach toward the People's Republic of China (PRC) and the United Nations. They discussed the tactical necessity of appearing proactive while maintaining control over the pace of negotiations, specifically regarding a potential 10% troop reduction in Europe and the delicate diplomatic maneuverings required to manage Taiwan's status at the UN. Secretary of State William P. Rogers joined the discussion to refine these strategies, and the President emphasized the importance of consulting with allies before making any final policy declarations to ensure domestic and international stability.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 4:26 pm and 4:28 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 504-014 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his senior staff and cabinet members to finalize a new, centralized strategy for combating the heroin epidemic among Vietnam veterans and the general public, including the establishment of a Special Action Office. The President directed that this new office would oversee federal drug rehabilitation, prevention, and enforcement efforts across all departments, emphasizing the urgent need for a cohesive, high-level response to prevent former servicemen from turning to crime. During the discussions, Nixon also pressed for stricter loyalty within the administration, authorized an investigation into intelligence leaks, and evaluated personnel appointments within the CIA and military leadership.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:38 pm and 7:53 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-150 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss logistical and scheduling arrangements for upcoming White House events, including a dinner for Anastasio Somoza Debayle and preparations for Tricia Nixon’s wedding. They decide to expand the Somoza dinner to include wives to simplify social obligations and reach a consensus on clearing the White House schedule of non-essential events leading up to the wedding to reduce staff strain. Additionally, they coordinate the President’s participation in upcoming Kennedy Center opening events, specifically opting for the symphony concert led by Antal Dorati while choosing to avoid the Leonard Bernstein performance associated with the Kennedy family.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:59 pm and 8:09 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-152 of the White House Tapes.
President Richard Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon coordinate logistics for upcoming social obligations at the White House, specifically focusing on the guest list for an upcoming dinner and a reception for the 80th Congress. The couple discusses the venue arrangements for these events, including the First Lady's concerns regarding the logistical management of breakfast service. They ultimately agree on using an alternative space to avoid interference with serving preparations.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:11 pm and 8:19 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-154 of the White House Tapes.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and John K. Andrews, Jr. talked on the telephone from 8:19 pm to 8:20 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-155 of the White House Tapes.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:20 pm and 9:05 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-156 of the White House Tapes.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:20 pm and 9:05 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-157 of the White House Tapes.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:20 pm and 9:05 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-158 of the White House Tapes.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:27 pm and 9:00 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 504-016 of the White House Tapes.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:27 pm and 9:00 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 504-017 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon uses this brief session to dictate a formal response to a May 21 letter he received from John J. McCloy. The President expresses his appreciation for McCloy’s generous correspondence and supportive sentiment regarding his presidency. This interaction serves as a routine administrative act to maintain diplomatic relations with a prominent advisor.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Thomas W. Fletcher met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:27 pm and 9:00 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 504-019 of the White House Tapes.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:27 pm and 9:00 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 504-020 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon called Cardinal Patrick O'Boyle to personally congratulate him on the fiftieth anniversary of his ordination. During the discussion, O'Boyle expressed his support for the President’s policies on Vietnam and offered prayers for his leadership amid political opposition. The two also discussed the recent surge in police killings, with both men agreeing on the necessity of taking a firm stance against such violence.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:07 pm and 9:14 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-160 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon called ABC executive Leonard Goldenson to express his gratitude for the performance of John Scali and to confirm that Charles Colson was managing a pending cable television issue. The two discussed the importance of balanced network news coverage, with Nixon expressing satisfaction with ABC’s reporting and his own press conference strategy. Nixon also checked on Goldenson’s health during his hospital stay and encouraged him to maintain a positive outlook.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:16 pm and 9:28 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-162 of the White House Tapes.
On May 27, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:16 pm and 9:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-163 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon called James Cardinal McIntyre to wish him well following a hospital stay and to congratulate him on his fiftieth anniversary of ordination. They also briefly discussed the construction of a hospital, Tricia Nixon's upcoming wedding in the Rose Garden, and McIntyre's improving health.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:47 am and 9:08 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-165 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met in the Oval Office to facilitate the presidential dictation of an official memorandum. The discussion focused on the drafting of this specific document to record executive instructions or observations. No further policy deliberations or significant administrative actions were recorded during this brief encounter.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:47 am and 9:08 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 505-016 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Secretary Rogers discussed the Soviet Union's relationship with Egypt, agreeing that a recent agreement was primarily "window-dressing" to maintain appearances. They also touched upon King Faisal's predictable statements regarding Israel and a New York Times article about Israel's evolving stance. Rogers expressed concern over a potential leak in the Washington Post regarding China policy, and Nixon instructed Rogers to have State Department officials advise the White House press office on how to handle the story discreetly.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers met to coordinate their public messaging strategy ahead of an upcoming presidential press conference. They discussed the political implications of recent comments regarding Middle East policy and the administration's stance toward Israel. Nixon instructed Rogers to maintain a low-key approach regarding these diplomatic sensitivities to ensure consistent communication.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman, Henry Kissinger, and other staff members to strategize on administration messaging, foreign policy initiatives, and political tactics. The conversation centered on managing the upcoming press conference, refining the administration's stance on drug policy by shifting focus toward youth rather than just veterans, and monitoring polling data regarding China and the United Nations. Nixon and his advisors also reviewed plans for an upcoming speech at West Point and discussed sensitive diplomatic maneuvering regarding potential summits and China-related negotiations.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:16 am and 9:34 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-167 of the White House Tapes.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:16 am and 9:34 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-168 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover discussed coordinating a public relations strategy to counter legislative efforts, specifically the Schweiker bill, which sought to expand federal jurisdiction over the investigation of police killings. They aimed to oppose these bills by highlighting the effectiveness of local law enforcement while reaffirming the FBI's existing, flexible authority to intervene in specific cases involving national conspiracies or political groups like the Black Panthers. Hoover agreed to meet with police chiefs to align them against the proposed legislation and planned to work with Attorney General John Mitchell to draft a refreshed public statement regarding FBI procedures for the upcoming week.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss the administrative restructuring of water policy and a strategic pivot in the administration's drug abuse program. Nixon instructs Ehrlichman to frame the new drug initiative around youth addiction rather than specifically focusing on veterans to avoid negative political associations with the war. They also plan to use an 'inspired leak' to journalist Stewart Alsop to preemptively control the narrative and discuss moving oversight of the program away from the National Institute of Mental Health to a team led by Egil Krogh.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:49 am and 11:03 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-171 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon instructed John K. Andrews, Jr. to revise the conclusion of an upcoming speech by incorporating an anecdote or a letter to provide an emotional rather than intellectual closing. Nixon suggested utilizing correspondence from prisoners of war, parents of servicemen, or Vietnam veterans to frame the theme of service. Andrews was tasked with gathering two or three potential options for the President to review by late afternoon.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:04 am and 12:20 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-174 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Puerto Rican Governor Luis A. Ferre, accompanied by Rosario Benigno Trigo and John C. Whitaker, to discuss political and economic developments in Puerto Rico and its role as a bridge to Latin America. Governor Ferre highlighted his "North-South Center" initiative, designed to foster democratic cooperation and social technology exchange with neighboring countries, while also addressing challenges related to federal funding, education, and regional stability. Nixon expressed support for Ferre’s efforts to promote Puerto Rico as a model of peaceful democratic transition and pledged continued cooperation regarding the island's Commonwealth status and legislative needs.
President Nixon met with Stephen Hess, Dr. Edward Zigler, and Kenneth R. Cole, Jr. to discuss the government's response to public concerns regarding children, particularly following the White House Conference on Children. Nixon emphasized the necessity of humanizing the administration by genuinely addressing citizen inquiries rather than providing rote form responses, and he tasked the group with establishing a 'Children's Concern Center' to improve government accessibility. Additionally, the President stressed the need for creative policy development outside of established bureaucratic structures, using his administration's cancer research restructuring as a model for achieving actual results.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met with the departing Danish Ambassador, Torben Ronne, to mark the conclusion of his six-and-a-half-year tenure. The meeting focused on formal farewells, with Ronne expressing his appreciation for the cooperation he received during his time in Washington. The participants briefly discussed Ronne's transition back to Denmark and his future aspirations to continue his public service.
President Nixon met with Danish representative Torben Ronne and Henry Kissinger to discuss international security, specifically regarding the People's Republic of China, the Soviet Union, and ongoing Vietnam War tensions. The discussion emphasized the need for a coordinated alliance position on arms control and regional stability, while Ronne expressed concerns regarding potential unilateral diplomatic recognition of Hanoi by other Scandinavian countries. Nixon reaffirmed the administration's commitment to consulting with Denmark on sensitive regional matters and acknowledged the Danish government's support regarding troop levels and foreign policy alignment.
President Nixon met with leaders of the Retail Clerks International Association, including James Suffridge, James Housewright, and William McGuire, alongside aide Charles W. Colson for a brief, ceremonial visit. The participants engaged in light conversation, exchanged gifts including golf balls and cuff links, and discussed a prayer shared by a local pastor. The interaction concluded with a photo opportunity and a brief discussion regarding a gift received from Saudi Arabia intended for the presidential library.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:13 pm and 12:14 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 506-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H. John Heinz III and Harry S. Dent to discuss Heinz's campaign for a congressional seat in a Democratic-leaning district in Pennsylvania. Nixon provided political advice, emphasizing that Heinz should focus on a personal appeal to voters while addressing economic concerns like jobs and inflation. The meeting concluded with Nixon presenting gifts to Heinz for his family and reflecting on his own early experiences as a young congressman.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:18 pm and 12:20 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 506-005 of the White House Tapes.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:18 pm and 12:20 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 506-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon speaks with his daughter Julie Nixon Eisenhower and son-in-law David Eisenhower to discuss the previous night's event at the Kennedy Center. The conversation focuses on David’s impressions of the evening, the presence of the Kennedy family, and the attendance of Mamie Eisenhower. They also address a circulating rumor regarding the President's potential appearance at the function.
President Nixon met briefly with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, to discuss her recent attendance at a social event. The conversation centers on Julie’s role in representing the family at a gathering associated with the Kennedy family. The exchange is informal and serves primarily as a personal check-in between the President and his daughter.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:21 pm and 2:39 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-176 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss foreign policy initiatives, specifically the delicate handling of the People's Republic of China, and the broader political landscape concerning the administration's re-election prospects. They evaluated the performance of cabinet members, with Kissinger expressing distrust toward Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird’s political ambitions and perceived lack of loyalty. Additionally, they addressed concerns regarding the Vietnam War, emphasizing the necessity of preventing a collapse of Saigon before the 1972 election while noting the military's ongoing struggles with drug abuse.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:33 pm and 12:40 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 506-009 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman met to coordinate the President’s upcoming travel schedule, which included stops in Indianapolis, California, Midway Island, and Maine. They discussed speech drafting, particularly for an upcoming address to the American Medical Association, and debated the logistics of using helicopters versus airplanes for these trips. Additionally, the pair reviewed recent polling data from Louis Harris and George Gallup regarding public opinion on the People's Republic of China’s admission to the United Nations, noting a shift in Republican sentiment in response to administration policy.
On May 28, 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 1:18 pm and 2:39 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 254-001 of the White House Tapes.
On May 28, 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 1:18 pm and 2:39 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 254-002 of the White House Tapes.
On May 28, 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 1:18 pm and 3:00 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 254-003 of the White House Tapes.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 2:39 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-177 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discuss the administration's evolving strategy regarding the People's Republic of China's admission to the United Nations, specifically debating the merits of a two-resolution approach to separate admission from the expulsion of Taiwan. Nixon emphasizes the importance of reassuring Taiwan privately while managing domestic and international perception through Rogers' forthcoming Senate testimony. Additionally, the two touch upon the sensitive status of U.S. combat roles in Vietnam ahead of meetings with South Vietnamese leadership and review the recent visit by King Faisal of Saudi Arabia.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:00 pm and 3:10 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-179 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman, George Shultz, and Peter Peterson to strategize on national economic goals, focusing on research and development (R&D) and long-term industrial planning. The discussion centered on creating a cohesive framework to address U.S. competitiveness, particularly regarding trade and labor, and the potential for a new commission to oversee domestic technological breakthroughs like breeder reactors and desalinization. The participants also explored strategies to communicate these initiatives to the public and political leaders, aiming to frame them as vital for future job growth and national strength.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull talked on the telephone from 3:10 pm to 3:11 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-180 of the White House Tapes.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and unknown person(s) talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:48 pm and 4:51 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-181 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Butterfield coordinate the delivery and review of drafts for an upcoming presidential speech scheduled for May 29, 1971. Butterfield confirms the status of the speech materials, including recently arrived substitute pages for the document. Nixon concludes the call by instructing Butterfield to hold the drafts at his office so the President can review the full text in person.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to discuss the administrative handling of a forthcoming presidential speech and the vetting of potential political appointees. They reviewed the distribution of speech drafts to key staff members, including Henry Kissinger and Alexander Haig, while incorporating revisions based on Kissinger's recommendations. Additionally, Nixon expressed strong reservations about appointing individuals like Charles Schultze or John Gardner due to their perceived ties to Democratic candidates, ultimately deciding against their inclusion.
On May 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met in the Oval Office of the White House from 5:10 pm to 5:12 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 506-012 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Henry Kissinger, John N. Mitchell, and other staff to refine a forthcoming speech at West Point and discuss a wide range of domestic and international political strategy. Key topics included the U.S. response to Soviet naval activity in Cuba, the ongoing effort to manage the Vietnam War in the public consciousness, and organizational strategies for the 1972 primaries, specifically concerning Ohio, California, and Texas. Nixon and Mitchell also reviewed potential personnel appointments and cabinet-level changes, including the roles of Leonard Firestone and Louie Nunn, while finalizing the administration's political positioning regarding Democratic challengers.