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 195 of 211On May 11, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at 3:41 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 046-019 of the White House Tapes.
On May 11, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 3:42 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 434-034 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon held a brief, informal meeting with an unidentified individual, potentially a staff member, to discuss personal logistical arrangements and travel plans. The dialogue touches upon the President's upcoming schedule at Camp David, the use of transportation, and the attendee's personal life, including a potential marriage. The conversation concludes with the President confirming the attendee's departure as he prepares to transition to his own transport.
On May 11, 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 3:42 pm and 3:45 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 434-036 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig met to strategize on managing public perception and internal testimony regarding Watergate-related documents and investigations. They discussed ensuring that individuals like General Vernon Walters and L. Patrick Gray maintained a narrative of presidential innocence while maneuvering to leak specific, favorable information to the press to counter negative allegations. The meeting focused on controlling the dissemination of records to ensure the President was portrayed as having no prior knowledge of the scandal.
On May 11, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 5:31 pm and 5:35 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss the political fallout and potential disclosure of White House-authorized wiretaps, specifically regarding individuals like Tony Lake. They debate whether to preemptively admit to these national security-related taps or maintain a defensive stance while coordinating with William Ruckelshaus on a public statement. Ultimately, Nixon directs Haig to verify the scope of existing wiretap records to ensure the administration is prepared for impending press scrutiny and to protect Henry Kissinger and Ronald Ziegler from contradictory information.
On May 11, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 6:30 pm and 6:35 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig met to strategize on managing public and legal fallout from the ongoing Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on the unauthorized surveillance of National Security Council staffer Anthony Lake. They debated the necessity of publicly framing these wiretaps as legitimate national security measures while distancing the White House from illegal conduct by comparing their practices favorably to those of previous administrations. The pair discussed coordinating statements for Henry Kissinger and William Ruckelshaus, while emphasizing the need to locate specific files to support their defense that these operations were essential for protecting sensitive diplomatic initiatives.
On May 11, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 6:47 pm and 7:08 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-005 of the White House Tapes.
On May 11, 1973, Camp David operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 6:47 pm and 7:08 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-006 of the White House Tapes.
On May 11, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 6:47 pm and 7:08 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-007 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discussed the status of White House investigations into past wiretaps and surveillance operations to ensure they could mount a strong defense against potential public backlash. The two reviewed documentation regarding the scope of these activities, confirming they were authorized for national security purposes and were limited in number compared to previous administrations. They coordinated a strategy for William Ruckelshaus to deliver a public statement on the findings by the following week, while also preparing Henry Kissinger to deflect questions regarding these matters during his upcoming briefings.
On May 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 10:05 am and 10:11 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-009 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig held a strategic meeting to manage the fallout from the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on press narratives, the handling of sensitive CIA memoranda, and the upcoming testimony of administration officials. They discussed coordinating with figures like L. Patrick Gray and CIA officials to emphasize that the President had directed forceful investigations into potential intelligence leaks, rather than attempting a cover-up. The conversation centered on maintaining a firm stance on national security grounds regarding the custody of sensitive documents while countering unfavorable media interpretations of the President's past directives.
On May 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 10:49 am and 11:50 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-011 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Roy Ash discussed the administration's economic policy, specifically affirming their rejection of a price freeze despite pressure from some advisors. They also coordinated cabinet management strategies, with Nixon tasking Ash to reassure Caspar Weinberger regarding his continued importance as a key domestic counselor. Finally, the President reflected on the recent, painful resignations of H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, reiterating that these departures were necessary steps for the administration to move past the Watergate scandal.
On May 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 11:56 am and 11:58 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-013 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon directed Office of Management and Budget Director Roy Ash to contact John B. Connally to solicit his advice and assistance on several administration priorities, including energy policy, export promotion, tax legislation, and wage and price controls. Nixon expressed concern over the political optics of Connally’s potential involvement in energy, given Connally’s known business interests in Soviet and Middle Eastern gas deals. Ash agreed to coordinate with Connally, acknowledging the need to balance utilizing Connally's expertise while insulating the administration from criticisms regarding his private sector ties.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the fallout from Kissinger's recent press briefing regarding national security wiretaps and his access to intelligence reports during the Watergate scandal. Kissinger reviews the success of his briefing, which aimed to refocus public attention on the upcoming Soviet summit and Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT), while Nixon emphasizes that the administration’s wiretap policies were authorized and less extensive than those of the Kennedy administration. The two conclude by agreeing that the administration should resist releasing a list of wiretapped individuals to protect innocent parties and maintain focus on key foreign policy objectives.
On May 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 12:30 pm and 12:31 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-016 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler consulted on managing public relations regarding the Watergate investigation and upcoming foreign policy developments. The discussion focused on drafting a press statement or orchestrating a strategic leak to clarify Nixon’s limited interactions with L. Patrick Gray and to refute allegations of presidential involvement in a cover-up. Additionally, they coordinated efforts to bolster support for a proposed commission on election reform by involving Republican leadership, while noting that Henry Kissinger’s recent briefings on the Soviet summit were successfully overshadowing Watergate concerns in the news cycle.
On May 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 12:36 pm and 12:37 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-018 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discussed the legal and political risks surrounding sensitive memoranda of conversation (memcons) related to the Watergate investigation and potential CIA involvement. Concerned about potential leaks and forthcoming testimony from officials like James Schlesinger and Vernon Walters, Nixon insisted that these documents remain in White House possession to protect national security and the administration's legal standing. The two also coordinated a strategy for press secretary Ronald Ziegler to counter negative narratives by emphasizing past administrations' use of wiretaps and ensuring the administration's public stance on cooperation remains consistent.
On May 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 12:54 pm and 12:59 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-020 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss legal strategy regarding the Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on John Dean’s role and his potential testimony. They review documentation of Dean's interactions with Lt. Gen. Vernon Walters, aiming to frame these as standard investigative procedures while distancing the President from Dean’s actions. The two conclude that J. Fred Buzhardt should consult with Richard Helms to assert national security privilege over specific records to limit their disclosure during the ongoing inquiry.
On May 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 1:03 pm and 2:04 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-022 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discussed administrative strategies for responding to the escalating Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on efforts to manage public perception and counter negative media coverage. The two reviewed press briefings given by Ronald Ziegler and strategized on how to engage political allies like John Stennis to influence legislative and public opinion. Additionally, the conversation addressed the importance of preventing the release of names linked to previous administration wiretaps, with the President asserting that such disclosures would be disastrous for innocent parties.
On May 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 2:10 pm and 2:11 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-024 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig coordinate a public relations strategy regarding Louis Patrick Gray III's upcoming testimony and statements concerning the Watergate investigation. Nixon directs Haig to ensure Gray emphasizes that the President had instructed him to conduct a thorough and unrestricted investigation regardless of who it might implicate. The objective is to use this narrative to override damaging revelations surfacing from grand jury proceedings and congressional testimony.
On May 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 2:13 pm and 2:17 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-026 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the administration's public relations strategy regarding Watergate-related media reports and allegations involving L. Patrick Gray III. Ziegler confirms he has briefed major news outlets to emphasize the President's commitment to a thorough investigation and to deny any White House participation in a cover-up. The two prioritize contacting Gray to coordinate testimony and prevent inconsistent statements, while also noting potential vulnerabilities regarding John W. Dean III.
On May 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 2:21 pm and 2:27 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-028 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss the administration’s strategy regarding Watergate-related documents, specifically focusing on the handling of memoranda of conversation (memcons) and the containment of information held by Vernon Walters and Richard Helms. They emphasize the necessity of maintaining a unified stance that no such records exist or will be released, framing this as a critical protection of presidential papers under the guise of national security. Furthermore, they coordinate efforts to contact L. Patrick Gray for testimony and confirm the preparation of additional materials by Leonard Garment for review at Camp David.
On May 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 5:15 pm and 5:17 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-030 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with Alexander Haig and Ronald Ziegler to strategize on managing the political fallout from the ongoing Watergate investigation. The discussion focused on characterizing Nixon's past communications with L. Patrick Gray and his inquiries into potential CIA involvement as legitimate efforts to uncover the facts rather than as attempts to obstruct justice. They emphasized the need to frame these interactions through the lens of national security and asserted that the President had consistently ordered a thorough, high-level investigation. The group also discussed managing potential evidence, such as memoranda of conversation (memcons), and reinforcing the narrative that John Dean was the primary source of the administration's legal difficulties.
On May 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 5:47 pm and 6:48 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-032 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discussed the ongoing Watergate investigation, focusing on managing the public and legal narrative surrounding H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. Nixon sought to convince Haig that interactions between his aides and the CIA were not a conspiratorial attempt to orchestrate a cover-up, but rather an effort to keep the CIA out of the investigation. The two men coordinated on strategies for upcoming grand jury testimony, specifically considering the use of executive privilege to protect Haldeman from potential perjury charges while emphasizing the need to ensure favorable, non-incriminating testimony from figures like Vernon Walters.
On May 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 8:56 am and 10:02 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-034 of the White House Tapes.
On May 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at 10:02 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-035 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler consulted at Camp David to coordinate the administration's public relations strategy regarding ongoing press coverage of the Soviet summit and the Watergate scandal. They discussed promoting positive bipartisan cooperation on a new election commission while maintaining a firm, defensive narrative against damaging leaks, specifically regarding FBI wiretap files and allegations of CIA involvement. Nixon emphasized the need to frame his inquiries into intelligence activities as logical and routine, while Ziegler confirmed that the White House had successfully countered misleading reports concerning the President's past communications with L. Patrick Gray.
On May 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 10:20 am and 10:21 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-037 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman consulted on the administration's strategy for responding to the intensifying Watergate investigation and the looming Senate hearings. They discussed the complexities of invoking executive privilege to protect presidential papers and testimony, specifically concerning meetings involving John Ehrlichman, H. R. Haldeman, and CIA Director Richard Helms. Nixon urged Haldeman to maintain a defiant stance, emphasizing the need to frame their past actions as a legitimate attempt to protect the CIA from being unfairly implicated in the scandal.
On May 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 10:39 am and 10:48 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-039 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss strategic responses to the Watergate scandal, focusing on managing public perception and protecting administration documents. They address the controversy surrounding Central Intelligence Agency involvement, the potential risks of disclosing "memcons" (memoranda of conversation), and the necessity of maintaining a unified front among staff and foreign diplomats. Additionally, Nixon proposes a new commission on election reform as a distraction to shift media focus away from the ongoing investigations.
On May 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 11:10 am and 11:36 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-041 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and aide Raymond K. Price, Jr. discussed the development of a forthcoming message to Congress regarding campaign finance and practice reform. Nixon proposed establishing a bipartisan commission to examine election irregularities, including campaign spending, organizational contributions, and violent campaign demonstrations, while also suggesting structural reforms like four-year terms for House members. The President decided to meet with congressional leaders on Tuesday to solicit their input before finalizing and delivering the message on Wednesday to demonstrate a bipartisan approach.
On May 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 12:04 pm and 4:11 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 166-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and his secretary Rose Mary Woods discussed administrative matters, staff assignments, and the administration's political strategy during the Watergate crisis. Nixon directed Woods to initiate a project of making 15 to 20 appreciation calls daily to political supporters to bolster morale and counter negative media coverage. The two also exchanged views on the perceived conspiracy by the press, Congress, and political opponents to undermine the presidency.
On May 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 4:16 pm and 4:21 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 166-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Richard Nixon and Representative Joe D. Waggonner, Jr. discussed the mounting political pressures of the Watergate scandal and ongoing challenges in Congress. Waggonner expressed his loyalty and support for the administration, while Nixon criticized the media, the Senate hearings, and the legal treatment of figures like Daniel Ellsberg. The two men also reviewed legislative strategy regarding Cambodia, agreed on the importance of demanding an accounting for MIAs in Indochina, and expressed optimism about the President’s ability to overcome the current political crisis.
On May 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:54 pm and 10:04 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 046-020 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discussed upcoming public appearances and the administration's strategic response to the ongoing Watergate scandal. The conversation focused on preparations for H. R. Haldeman’s grand jury testimony, the status of John Dean’s potential immunity, and the timeline for William Ruckelshaus's public statement regarding White House documents. Nixon emphasized the importance of maintaining a normal presidential schedule to project stability while coordinating a bipartisan effort for a new Commission on Federal Election Reform.
On May 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:08 pm and 10:09 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 046-022 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig held a strategic discussion regarding the administration's defensive posture in the ongoing Watergate investigation. They reviewed the status of key witnesses, including L. Patrick Gray’s successor, FBI files, and the expected testimony of figures like John Dean and Vernon Walters. Furthermore, Nixon proposed declassifying decade-old national security records, such as those related to the Bay of Pigs and the death of Ngo Dinh Diem, as a diversionary tactic to generate favorable controversy and shift public focus away from Watergate.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 5:15 am and 5:17 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-041 of the White House Tapes.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:42 am and 8:56 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Ronald Ziegler, Alexander Haig, and Lawrence Higby to discuss the ongoing fallout from the Watergate scandal and manage the White House's public relations strategy. They addressed the intensifying pressure surrounding John Dean’s allegations, the potential for impeachment, and the legal implications of White House files and intelligence activities. Nixon emphasized a strategy of holding the line, challenging Dean’s credibility, and maintaining administrative operations despite the investigation's encroachment on his staff and records.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:50 am and 11:00 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-003 of the White House Tapes.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:50 am and 11:00 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-004 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Lawrence Higby to discuss the location and existence of specific political memoranda that might have been shared with John Dean or H.R. Haldeman. Concerned about the potential impact of these documents in the context of the Watergate investigation, Nixon instructed Higby to verify their existence by consulting secretaries Beverly Kaye and Rose Mary Woods. The conversation also touched upon the sensitivity of national security documents mentioned by Dean in court and potential unauthorized activities involving E. Howard Hunt.
President Nixon met with his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, to discuss the management and security of sensitive documents, specifically memos and John D. Ehrlichman's diaries related to the ongoing Watergate investigation. Nixon instructed Woods to verify the contents of their files and retrieve certain personal dictated notes to ensure they were kept separate from official records. The conversation also touched upon the climate of the administration, with Woods offering personal support and encouragement to the President as he navigated the mounting political crisis.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:10 am and 11:25 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-007 of the White House Tapes.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:15 am and 11:25 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 046-024 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Lawrence Higby discuss efforts to verify whether any presidential memoranda were sent to John W. Dean III regarding Watergate. Higby confirms that secretaries Beverly J. Kaye and Pat McKee have independently denied typing such documents, and Nixon directs him to further verify this by contacting Terry L. Decker. Nixon expresses strong frustration regarding the scrutiny of his past files, insisting that he never authored memoranda on Watergate-related matters.
President Nixon and Lawrence Higby discussed the integrity and control of internal White House documents and potential records related to the Watergate scandal. Nixon expressed deep concern over the handling of sensitive materials and instructed Higby to verify the origin and distribution of specific files and copies. The exchange highlights the President's anxiety regarding the potential paper trail and his efforts to manage internal information security during the investigation.
President Nixon and his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, met to organize and review sensitive records, including Presidential memoranda and dictabelt tapes relevant to the Watergate investigation. The President reviewed specific files and dictabelt content to manage and verify the filing procedures for these materials. During the meeting, they established instructions for the handling and marking of these tapes to maintain control over the documentation.
President Nixon and an unidentified aide discuss the political impact of recent public statements made by Clay T. Whitehead and Kevin Phillips regarding administration policy. They conclude that while these individuals are advancing the administration's goals, their inflammatory rhetoric has become counterproductive. The conversation concludes with the President requesting copies of relevant materials and reviewing taped recordings to manage future appearances and public messaging.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Rose Mary Woods met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:28 am and 11:40 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-013 of the White House Tapes.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:28 am and 11:40 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-014 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon reviewed personal dictabelt recordings from mid-March 1973 with an unknown participant to reflect on past events. The discussion revisited the President's preparations for his March 15th press conference and a subsequent meeting with Senator Hugh Scott at Camp David. The session served as a retrospective analysis of political strategy and internal challenges faced during that period.
President Nixon reviews past instructions intended for H.R. Haldeman regarding George H.W. Bush by listening to previously recorded dictabelt tapes. He also consults with George P. Shultz to discuss ongoing difficulties concerning the Labor Management Committee and the composition of its membership. The pair evaluates international economic affairs and specific administrative memos to address current organizational challenges.
President Nixon reviewed personal dictabelt recordings and memos to document his internal thoughts and prior communications regarding the unfolding Watergate scandal. He assessed the legal and political vulnerabilities of key staff members, including H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and John Dean, while considering potential legal strategies involving immunity and clemency. The session served as a retrospective evaluation of his administration's handling of the crisis and his efforts to establish a clear record of his knowledge and decision-making.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:28 am and 11:40 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-018 of the White House Tapes.
President Richard Nixon met with his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, to discuss the organization and status of sensitive Watergate-related memoranda. The conversation focused on distinguishing between internal files and documents prepared for distribution, including materials originating from Camp David. Nixon confirmed that the records were properly accounted for and verified, indicating the completion of a review process regarding these sensitive papers.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler met to coordinate the White House response to upcoming media reports concerning the Pentagon Papers investigation and wiretapping activities. Nixon instructed Ziegler to frame the administration's involvement in the Egil Krogh-led investigation as a routine, legitimate national security measure. The two also discussed the status of presidential files and sought to downplay the administration's prior knowledge of sensitive intelligence activities by emphasizing the President's lack of personal recollection of specific documents.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:59 am and 12:03 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 046-026 of the White House Tapes.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Rose Mary Woods met in the Oval Office of the White House at 11:59 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-021 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with unidentified individuals to finalize the logistical details for an upcoming bill-signing ceremony involving Vera Clemente. The discussion focused on coordinating the press relations and event participants, specifically noting the involvement of Senator Hugh Scott and baseball players Willie Stargell and Manny Sanguillen. The primary objective was to facilitate the presentation of a commemorative medal, with proceeds directed toward the Roberto Clemente Memorial Fund.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:59 am and 12:03 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-023 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Lawrence M. Higby discuss the status of a records search, specifically concerning potential memoranda related to John W. Dean III and files held by Rose Mary Woods. Higby reports that an initial review of the materials yielded no significant findings, prompting the President to urge continued diligence in the search. The conversation concludes with Nixon preparing to attend a Citizens Medal presentation for Mrs. Roberto Clemente while awaiting further updates.
President Nixon met with aide Lawrence M. Higby to briefly discuss the status of a requested report and the administrative handling of presidential correspondence. Nixon inquired about specific documentation regarding his expressed concerns over public demonstrations. The conversation concluded without a definitive resolution, reflecting the President's ongoing preoccupation with political optics during the Watergate era.
President Nixon hosted Vera Clemente, widow of baseball legend Roberto Clemente, alongside several legislators and fellow professional athletes to honor the late humanitarian and star outfielder. The meeting focused on the formal signing of H.R. 3841, a bipartisan bill authorizing a commemorative medal in Clemente’s honor. During the ceremony, the President presented the Citizen’s Medal to Mrs. Clemente, offered commemorative gifts for her children, and coordinated photographs with the attendees.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:19 pm and 12:24 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-026 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office to coordinate the logistics and schedule for an upcoming bipartisan congressional leadership meeting. They reviewed the guest list, which included notable figures such as John B. Connally, Elliot L. Richardson, and Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The discussion centered on finalizing the administration of the meeting, including confirming attendee lists and relevant legislative contacts.
President Nixon met with Lawrence Higby and Alexander Haig to discuss the unfolding Watergate scandal, focusing on the potential legal vulnerabilities of H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. Nixon expressed concerns regarding the motives and credibility of John Dean, specifically speculating about his possession of sensitive files and his efforts to secure immunity. The participants assessed the likely impact of forthcoming Ervin Committee testimony, emphasizing the need to maintain executive privilege and protect the administration from legal fallout.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig met to strategize the administration's response to the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on managing the public statements of William Ruckelshaus and mitigating the impact of documents held by John Dean. They discussed the necessity of distancing the President from specific FBI and White House activities involving J. Edgar Hoover and William C. Sullivan. Nixon expressed relief after a review of his own files and private memoranda confirmed that no evidence existed linking him directly to the controversial actions under scrutiny.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:53 pm and 12:59 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-030 of the White House Tapes.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:53 pm and 12:59 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-031 of the White House Tapes.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:53 pm and 12:59 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-032 of the White House Tapes.
On May 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 12:59 pm and 1:15 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 436-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig coordinate the administration's public response to ongoing Watergate-related pressures, specifically addressing critical statements made by William D. Ruckelshaus. They discuss drafting a formal White House statement intended to emphasize the administration's cooperation with the FBI. The two men also strategize on how to frame internal narratives regarding John D. Ehrlichman and the handling of the investigation to minimize political damage.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss the administration's strategy for responding to Watergate-related investigations, specifically focusing on FBI records and the potential political exploitation of past wiretaps from the Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Johnson administrations. Nixon instructs Haig to pressure FBI Acting Director William Ruckelshaus to investigate the disposition of previous administrations' records to deflect scrutiny from the White House. The two also address the legal challenges posed by Judge John Sirica's access to John Dean's documents and the potential transfer of these materials to the Ervin Committee and the grand jury.
On May 14, 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 1:04 pm and 1:07 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 435-021 of the White House Tapes.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander M. Haig, Jr. met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 1:07 pm to 1:08 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 435-022 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed the President's upcoming schedule to manage his time commitments and prioritize meetings. They discussed various appointments, including prospective visits with political figures and reports from individuals returning from official trips. Nixon explicitly directed that certain visitors, such as Peter G. Peterson, must undergo extensive vetting and reporting to other administration officials like John B. Connally and Henry Kissinger before being granted an audience with him.
President Nixon met with Ronald Ziegler and Alexander Haig to formulate a public relations strategy to counter the ongoing Watergate scandal. The discussion focused on shifting public attention toward the previous Democratic administrations by highlighting missing FBI wiretap records from the Kennedy and Johnson eras. Nixon emphasized the importance of aggressive tactics, including the declassification of sensitive documents and the promotion of a narrative that the White House had fully cooperated with investigations into national security leaks.
President Nixon and Ron Ziegler discussed press relations and the ongoing Watergate investigation. They focused on how Ziegler handled press briefings, the tone of White House communications, and potential strategies to manage public perception. Key topics included the President's August 1972 statement, John Dean's role, and the possibility of a press conference. They also touched upon the Ellsberg break-in and the handling of sensitive files, with a decision to potentially adjust the frequency of Ziegler's briefings.
On May 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 2:05 pm and 3:10 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 436-006 of the White House Tapes.
On May 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 2:05 pm and 3:10 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 436-007 of the White House Tapes.