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 31 of 211On July 3, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:23 pm and 3:57 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-124 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon instructed his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, to transmit a telegram to publisher William Randolph Hearst regarding his upcoming Sunday column. Nixon requested that the message commend Hearst for maintaining the tradition of prioritizing national security in his editorial content. Woods was directed to have the message phoned in or sent by mail to ensure the sentiment was conveyed promptly.
On July 3, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:59 pm and 4:05 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-126 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with William H. Carruthers regarding the production details for an upcoming speech. The President requested that “America the Beautiful” be selected as the closing song to better align with the themes of his remarks, pending the availability of an a cappella version. Additionally, Nixon confirmed his intent to wear an American flag lapel pin, which Carruthers agreed would be an appropriate and well-received gesture.
On July 3, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:06 pm and 4:12 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-128 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss their dissatisfaction with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and specifically the recent handling of unemployment data, which they characterize as a politically damaging "statistical fluke." The President expresses deep distrust toward BLS leadership, suggesting the agency is intentionally undermining the administration, and they strategize ways to force a change in leadership. Colson is tasked with orchestrating quiet, indirect pressure through academic contacts like Milton Friedman and political allies to challenge the competence of BLS officials before the critical months of late summer and autumn.
On July 3, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:22 pm and 4:37 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-130 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss strategies for effectively communicating positive economic data following the upcoming release of unemployment figures. They highlight the importance of providing Republican legislators, such as Robert Dole and Hugh Scott, with simplified talking points to emphasize the record-breaking drop in unemployment and growth in job numbers. Colson confirms that a one-page summary has already been distributed to GOP leadership to ensure a unified and impactful public narrative.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to request a telephone connection with First Lady Pat Nixon. The operator attempted to locate the First Lady to facilitate the call. No substantive policy discussions occurred during this brief administrative exchange.
President Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon coordinate the logistics for an upcoming speech and their subsequent departure. They confirm a timeline for attending the event, which requires an early arrival to ensure the audience is seated, followed by a planned helicopter flight to Camp David. The discussion serves to align their personal schedules and travel arrangements for the evening.
On July 3, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:05 pm and 6:16 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-134 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with John K. Andrews, Jr. to clarify the correct pronunciation of the word "valedictory" for an upcoming presidential address. The brief exchange confirmed the stress placement on the third syllable and verified that preparations for the speech were finalized. Andrews informed the President that his requested revisions had been incorporated and the text was ready for delivery.
On July 3, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:17 pm and 6:55 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-136 of the White House Tapes.
On July 3, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:17 pm and 6:55 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-137 of the White House Tapes.
On July 3, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander M. Haig, Jr. talked on the telephone from 6:55 pm to 6:56 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-138 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman review the successful certification ceremony for the 26th Amendment, focusing on how the use of young performers helped foster a positive image of the presidency. They pivot to a broader discussion on the Pentagon Papers, with the President directing his staff to secure a private report from J. Edgar Hoover and Melvin Laird regarding the New York Times' involvement. The conversation concludes with a strategic assessment of how to handle foreign policy disclosures, aiming to frame the administration’s secret negotiations as essential peace-making efforts while minimizing the public impact of the leaked documents.
On July 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 4:28 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-139 of the White House Tapes.
On July 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:16 pm and 7:21 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-140 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the media's television coverage of the President's certification of the 26th Amendment. Nixon expresses frustration, alleging that major networks deliberately excluded the event's enthusiastic atmosphere and the youth participants' performance. The President instructs Ziegler to confront specific network correspondents, including Robert Pierpoint and Herbert Kaplow, to criticize their editorial choices and demand better representation of the event's spirit.
On July 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:16 pm and 7:21 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-142 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss their dissatisfaction with the broadcast networks' coverage of the President’s certification of the 26th Amendment. Nixon expresses frustration that the networks, particularly CBS, ignored the positive nature of the event in favor of negative reporting. To address this, Nixon directs Haldeman to have Charles Colson confront network executives by forcing them to compare their aired reports against the raw footage they filmed to highlight the perceived bias.
On July 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 7:25 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-144 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the scheduling and potential reliability of upcoming Gallup and Harris presidential approval polls. They analyze the impact of recent political events, noting that the lack of major developments between polling periods should limit significant fluctuations in results. The conversation reflects the administration's strategic focus on monitoring public perception amidst ongoing political scrutiny.
On July 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:28 pm and 7:35 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-146 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and his daughter Tricia Nixon Cox discussed the certification of the Twenty-sixth Amendment, which lowered the voting age to 18. Nixon explained his role in urging Ohio to be the 38th state to ratify the amendment and described a ceremony he attended with young people and interns. Tricia shared her experience signing autographs for tourists from various countries at the White House fence. They also briefly touched upon Nixon's upcoming travel and his mother's visit to Camp David.
On July 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:26 pm and 8:38 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-148 of the White House Tapes.
On July 5, 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 8:26 pm and 8:38 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 260-028 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a call to Representative Florence Dwyer. The exchange served as a routine administrative request to facilitate communication with the congresswoman. No substantive policy discussions or significant political developments occurred during this brief interaction.
President Nixon initiated a friendly call to Congresswoman Florence P. Dwyer to offer birthday greetings upon discovering they shared the same July 4 birth date. Dwyer discussed her recent experiences at a large Fourth of July parade in Plainfield, New Jersey, where she publicly encouraged the crowd to pray for the President. The conversation concluded with a brief exchange regarding Nixon's upcoming travel schedule to Kansas City and California and Dwyer's pledge of continued political support.
President Richard Nixon met with Congresswoman Florence P. Dwyer in his Old Executive Office Building suite for a brief consultation. While no transcript exists for this short three-minute exchange, the discussion concerned ongoing legislative matters of interest to the New Jersey representative. The meeting served as a direct line of communication between the White House and Capitol Hill regarding the administration’s current political and policy agenda.
On July 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:41 pm and 8:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-150 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon held an informal, largely conversational interaction with a White House operator that touched upon his upcoming travel itinerary. Nixon mentioned a scheduled trip to Kansas City for a media briefing followed by a ten-day stay in California, where he planned to participate in a shipyard opening and other official engagements. The dialogue was primarily social in nature, serving to acknowledge the operator's service and reaffirm communication plans for the President's return.
President Nixon called Congressman James Harvey to extend birthday wishes for Harvey's 50th birthday and to share an anecdote about his daughter Julie Nixon Eisenhower’s birthday. The conversation served as a personal outreach, with Harvey praising the President's recent televised appearance regarding the 26th Amendment and youth engagement. Nixon briefly touched upon his upcoming schedule, noting his intent to pressure steel industry and labor leaders toward a settlement before departing for a trip to Kansas City and California.
On July 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and James Harvey met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 8:45 pm to 8:48 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 260-032 of the White House Tapes.
On July 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:48 pm and 9:08 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-152 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with a White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection. The brief exchange focused exclusively on coordinating communication logistics. No substantive policy matters or major decisions were recorded during this interaction.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss the recent deadly rocket attack on the Da Nang Air Base and review Henry Kissinger’s ongoing diplomatic trip to Southeast Asia. They focus on Kissinger's efforts to bolster South Vietnamese morale regarding troop withdrawal timelines, while affirming continued commitments to air power and economic aid. Additionally, they coordinate potential final communications with Soviet Ambassador Anatoliy Dobrynin regarding upcoming administration travel plans.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig met briefly to discuss immediate administrative scheduling and the necessity of initiating preparations for an upcoming project. The discussion focused on evaluating the success of previous efforts while emphasizing the need for urgent follow-up actions. Although the recording is brief and contains largely procedural dialogue, the participants signaled a priority to begin execution on their pending agenda.
On July 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:13 pm and 10:39 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-154 of the White House Tapes.
On July 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 10:39 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-155 of the White House Tapes.
On July 6, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:59 am and 9:10 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 538-001 of the White House Tapes.
On July 6, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:59 am and 9:10 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 538-002 of the White House Tapes.
On July 6, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:59 am and 9:10 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 538-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discussed strategies for managing U.S. foreign policy, specifically focusing on balancing negotiations with the Soviet Union while preparing for a diplomatic opening with the People's Republic of China. Nixon emphasized the need to adopt a tougher, more assertive stance toward the Soviets regarding Berlin and the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) to counter their perceived delaying tactics. The President decided to bypass traditional channels like David K. E. Bruce, opting to communicate directly to ensure the U.S. maintains the psychological initiative in these high-stakes geopolitical maneuvers.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed strategies for managing the administration's image, specifically focusing on how to address the Pentagon Papers fallout and upcoming media briefings. They reached a decision to initiate a systematic revocation of security clearances for officials from the previous Kennedy and Johnson administrations to emphasize a commitment to document security. Additionally, Nixon directed Haldeman to have Charles Colson prioritize the aggressive release of information that would implicate previous administrations in the unauthorized handling of sensitive materials.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the scheduling of a follow-up telephone call between the President and Attorney General John Mitchell regarding his upcoming travel plans. The conversation also shifts to an evaluation of recent television news coverage and the administration’s strategy for managing media relations. Nixon directs Haldeman to gather feedback from staff regarding the effectiveness of their outreach and to coordinate future efforts in shaping the network narrative.
President Nixon met with his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to coordinate his daily schedule and manage upcoming meetings. The primary focus was ensuring the President remained free from interruptions ahead of a 10:00 a.m. engagement. Additionally, the pair briefly touched upon a meeting request submitted by George P. Shultz.
President Nixon and George Shultz met to coordinate the President's upcoming appearance before steel industry and labor leaders, focusing on long-term industry challenges like productivity, foreign competition, and wage stagnation. They agreed the President should emphasize the national interest in a healthy steel sector while encouraging constructive labor-management negotiations. The two also reviewed recent Bureau of Labor Statistics unemployment data and positive retail sales indicators, specifically noting that employment improvements among adult workers remained strong despite seasonal fluctuations in teenage unemployment statistics.
On July 6, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and steel industry leaders and union representatives, including George P. Shultz, Roger S. Albrendt, Stewart Cort, Edwin H. Gott, Fred G. Jaricks, Frank Nemec, John O'Connell, Thomas Patton, J. Warren Shaver, William J. Stevens, George A. Stinson, C. William Verity, John Wall, Walter J. Burke, Joseph P. Maloney, Bernard Kleiman, Elliot Bredhoff, I[lorwith] W. Abel, John B. Connally, James D. Hodgson, and White House photographer, met in the Cabinet Room of the White House at an unknown time between 10:00 am and 11:19 am. The Cabinet Room taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 064-003 of the White House Tapes.
On July 6, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:00 am and 10:31 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 538-009 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to review administrative preparations for upcoming meetings and the logistics of presenting presidential mementos to guests. The discussion centered on managing the presentation of gifts and coordinating the scheduling of materials for visitors. Nixon and Bull finalized these arrangements to ensure that appropriate tokens were ready for distribution during his scheduled appointments.
On July 6, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:12 am and 11:26 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 538-012 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and Alexander Haig to discuss the administration's aggressive response to the Pentagon Papers leaks and the ongoing investigation into alleged leakers and conspirators. The group coordinated efforts to plant friendly personnel in congressional committees to serve as investigative conduits and reviewed progress on polygraph testing and evidence gathering against individuals like Charles Cooke and Daniel Ellsberg. Additionally, the President and Haig discussed foreign policy strategy, specifically addressing the diplomatic maneuvering with the Soviet Union regarding the SALT talks and the administration's cautious, calculated approach toward the upcoming opening with the People's Republic of China.
On July 6, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:45 am and 11:47 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 538-014 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John Mitchell, H. R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman primarily to discuss the ongoing investigation into the leak of the Pentagon Papers and the prosecution of Daniel Ellsberg. The participants strategized on how to expose the existence of a broader conspiracy, suggesting that the administration should leverage media leaks and congressional committees to sway public opinion. Nixon emphasized the need for strict control over the investigative process, instructing that no final indictments be issued without his direct approval while the team continued to build their case.
President Nixon, Rose Mary Woods, and Stephen Bull meet with unidentified guests to facilitate a brief, informal reception. The President exchanges pleasantries, reflects on past acquaintances, and presents commemorative gifts, including an item featuring the presidential seal. The meeting concludes with arrangements for the guests to tour the grounds and coordinate the arrival of additional visitors.
President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone on an unknown date, sometime between 6:05 pm on July 18, 1971 and 6:26 pm on July 19, 1971. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-156 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed the positive political and public impact of the recent announcement regarding the opening of relations with the People’s Republic of China. They examined the domestic reception, noting enthusiastic support from the military and the administration's 'official family' while assessing the potential pressure this shift places on congressional and Democratic opponents. Additionally, the conversation touched upon media relations, specifically addressing biased television news coverage and their strategies for managing press perception.
On July 19, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, William P. Rogers, and bipartisan Congressional leaders, including Michael J. ("Mike") Mansfield, Hugh Scott, John C. Stennis, Margaret Chase Smith, J. William Fulbright, George D. Aiken, Allen J. Ellender, Milton R. Young, Carl B. Albert, [Thomas] Hale Boggs, Gerald R. Ford, Edward Hébert, Leslie C. Arends, Dr. Thomas E. ("Doc") Morgan, William S. Mailliard, George H. Mahon, Frank T. Bow, Henry A. Kissinger, Clark MacGregor, William E. Timmons, Kenneth E. BeLieu, Ronald L. Ziegler, and John A. Scali, met in the Cabinet Room of the White House at an unknown time between 8:36 am and 10:11 am. The Cabinet Room taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 064-005 of the White House Tapes.
On July 19, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Cabinet officers, including William P. Rogers, Paul A. Volcker, Melvin R. Laird, Richard G. Kleindienst, Rogers C. B. Morton, Clifford M. Hardin, Maurice H. Stans, Laurence H. Silberman, John G. Veneman, Richard C. Van Dusen, James M. Beggs, David M. Kennedy, George P. Shultz, Donald H. Rumsfeld, George H. W. Bush, Herbert G. Klein, Raymond K. Price, Jr., Alexander P. Butterfield, Ronald L. Ziegler, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman, and Robert J. Dole, met in the Cabinet Room of the White House at an unknown time between 10:00 am and 11:12 am. The Cabinet Room taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 064-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with key Congressional leaders, including John C. Stennis and F. Edward Hébert, along with his advisors to discuss the legislative strategy for upcoming draft bills and the political impact of Congressional interference in Vietnam War policy. The participants debated the risks of establishing a firm troop withdrawal date, with Nixon emphasizing that Congressional restrictions could undermine his negotiating leverage and public perception. The President insisted on maintaining executive freedom of action to ensure a favorable peace settlement and signaled that he would not yield on the inclusion of a binding deadline in draft legislation.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and Alexander P. Butterfield convened in the Oval Office to address administrative details regarding White House interior maintenance. The participants briefly discussed the specific logistical task of refurbishing and reupholstering chairs within the executive office. The discussion concluded with a directive to proceed with the requested furniture maintenance.
President Nixon held a brief introductory meeting with an individual identified as Andrew Williams. The conversation remained inconclusive as the participant struggled to establish the purpose of the discussion. No substantive policy matters or action items were resolved during this brief exchange.
President Nixon met with an unknown individual in the Oval Office to receive an unspecified item intended for his office in the Old Executive Office Building. The brief interaction concluded with the visitor departing shortly thereafter. No substantive policy matters or further actions were recorded during this exchange.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, and Henry Kissinger met to discuss the positive domestic media reception of the administration's surprise initiative toward the People’s Republic of China. The participants reviewed the favorable coverage in national magazines, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strict secrecy while framing the initiative as a decisive, presidential-led move. They also addressed political strategy, including managing congressional relations, handling potential polling volatility related to the Vietnam War, and coordinating upcoming briefings for the White House staff.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler met to coordinate public messaging regarding the administration's recent initiative to open diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China. Nixon directed Ziegler to remain non-committal on speculative questions concerning Vietnam, Taiwan, and the potential impact on other nations, while emphasizing that the President would continue to work with relevant leaders. They also discussed handling inquiries about Vice President Spiro Agnew's controversial remarks on African leadership and affirmed the President's stance on meeting with Soviet officials only when concrete results are achievable.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull in the Oval Office to coordinate administrative logistics and manage the presidential calendar. The discussion focused primarily on scheduling requirements, specifically regarding upcoming appointments and briefings involving National Security Advisor Henry A. Kissinger. No significant policy decisions were recorded during this brief administrative encounter.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull discussed operational logistics regarding the Oval Office, focusing specifically on managing the presence of children during visits. They considered the potential addition of gifts, such as a music box, to improve the experience for younger visitors. The conversation also included brief administrative coordination regarding John Ehrlichman's schedule.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate the delivery of recent copies of Time and Newsweek magazines. The President specifically requested that these materials be sent to Mrs. Mechner. The interaction concluded with Nixon tasking Bull with the logistics of this delivery.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to verify the daily scheduling of his barber. The President sought specific confirmation regarding whether the barber or his partner was available at the White House. This brief interaction served to clarify the President's personal grooming arrangements for the day.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss strategy and messaging regarding the recent announcement of the U.S. opening to the People’s Republic of China. They reviewed how to manage press coverage and addressed leaks emanating from the State Department, specifically concerning the administration's internal process and lack of awareness among other cabinet members. Nixon provided instructions for Kissinger’s upcoming press briefing, emphasizing the need to highlight the President's personal qualifications, diplomatic experience, and philosophical approach as uniquely suited for the high-stakes negotiation with Chinese leadership.
President Nixon dictated a memorandum to National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger regarding the framing of their strategic outreach and diplomatic image. The President emphasized the need to subtly communicate personal characteristics and specific relational dynamics to influence public or foreign perception. This effort reflects an ongoing interest in utilizing personal narrative as a tool for political or diplomatic leverage.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed managing the flow of information regarding the recent China initiative, specifically addressing the need to limit staff briefings to maintain confidentiality and prevent leaks to the press. They also coordinated an upcoming meeting with John B. Connally, who was seeking clarity on his standing within the administration and preparing for congressional testimony. The conversation reflects the President's broader concern about internal discipline and his desire to shift the administration's focus toward domestic policy successes.
On July 19, 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 1:26 pm and 3:00 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 262-001 of the White House Tapes.
On July 19, 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 1:26 pm and 3:00 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 262-002 of the White House Tapes.
On July 19, 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 1:26 pm and 3:00 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 262-003 of the White House Tapes.
On July 19, 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 1:26 pm and 3:00 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 262-004 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John B. Connally and Henry Kissinger to discuss the sensitive diplomatic implications of the recent announcement regarding U.S. relations with the People's Republic of China, emphasizing the need for absolute secrecy and tight control over foreign policy information. Beyond foreign policy, the participants addressed internal administrative challenges, specifically regarding personnel appointments in the Treasury Department and the importance of professional discipline and loyalty among White House staff. The conversation concluded with an extensive political analysis concerning the upcoming 1972 election, potential Democratic challengers, and the strategic future of John B. Connally within the administration.
On July 19, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Henry A. Kissinger met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 5:05 pm and 5:10 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 262-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman coordinated upcoming scheduling logistics, specifically arranging a meeting for the following day involving George Shultz. The discussion touched upon staffing matters and personnel appointments, including positive reflections on the capabilities of William P. Rogers and other administrative associates. They concluded by confirming that no immediate action was required at that moment regarding the discussed items.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss personnel issues related to Treasury Secretary John B. Connally, specifically regarding staffing disputes and office appointments. They addressed Connally’s frustration over the hiring process for a secretarial position and the perceived interference of Charls E. Walker. The conversation reinforced Haldeman’s role in managing White House personnel matters and ensuring that administration staff remained aligned with the President's objectives.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss the strategic orchestration of upcoming international summits, specifically focusing on the delicate balance between diplomatic relations with China and the Soviet Union. Kissinger provided a debrief on his recent engagements, emphasizing the need for a carefully sequenced public announcement strategy to maximize political impact. The two discussed the importance of managing expectations for these meetings while maintaining a position of strength and strategic ambiguity to prevent preemptive interference from other global powers.
On July 19, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 8:01 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-158 of the White House Tapes.
On July 20, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, William P. Rogers, and Republican Congressional leaders, including Hugh Scott, John C. Stennis, Robert P. Griffin, Margaret Chase Smith, Gordon L. Allott, Norris Ctton, Peter H. Dominick, Gerald R. Ford, Leslie C. Arends, John B. Anderson, Richard H. Poff, Barber B. Conable, Jr., John J. Rhodes, Robert C. ("Bob") Wilson, Robert T. Stafford, H. Allen Smith, Robert J. Dole, Henry A. Kissinger, Clark MacGregor, John D. Ehrlichman, George P. Shultz, William E. Timmons, Kenneth E. BeLieu, Richard K. Cook, Harry S. Dent, Herbert G. Klein, Patrick J. Buchanan, Bryce C. Harlow, and Ronald L. Ziegler, met in the Cabinet Room of the White House at an unknown time between 7:35 am and 10:23 am. The Cabinet Room taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 065-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, Secretary of State William P. Rogers, and National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger coordinated strategy regarding ongoing efforts to achieve an honorable end to the Vietnam War. The discussion centered on aligning U.S. negotiating objectives—specifically a ceasefire, POW release, and regional peace—with potential legislative maneuvers in Congress. The participants evaluated how to manage Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield’s involvement to prevent unfavorable legislative interference with the administration's diplomatic goals.
On July 20, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Henry A. Kissinger met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 7:35 am and 7:53 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 540-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to coordinate messaging strategy regarding the secret opening of relations with the People's Republic of China. They discussed managing congressional and conservative skepticism, emphasizing the importance of maintaining secrecy while presenting an upbeat, controlled public narrative. The conversation also touched upon potential Vietnam peace negotiations and the strategic implications of a prospective summit with the Soviet Union in light of the PRC initiative.
President Nixon met with staff members Stephen B. Bull and Alexander P. Butterfield to coordinate logistical arrangements for upcoming meetings. The discussion centered on scheduling appointments with Senator Robert J. Dole and Senator James O. Eastland, as well as managing a briefing with Henry A. Kissinger. The participants specifically addressed requests regarding photography and the allocation of time for these high-level political engagements.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, Robert Dole, and William Timmons to coordinate Republican strategy regarding the 1972 National Convention site selection, specifically leaning toward San Diego. The group discussed the political necessity of framing the President’s recent initiative toward the People's Republic of China as a masterstroke of leadership to build momentum for the 1972 election. Furthermore, Nixon directed his staff to organize economic briefings for Republican members of Congress to bolster party morale and counter Democratic attacks concerning the economy and the Vietnam War.
On July 20, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:07 am and 11:09 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 540-008 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John D. Ehrlichman and George P. Shultz to discuss a wide-ranging agenda of domestic and political issues, including the administration's strategy for school desegregation, welfare reform, and the handling of the Pentagon Papers. The President expressed deep frustration with the lack of vocal support from Republican Congressional leaders regarding his recent initiative to open relations with the People's Republic of China, and directed his staff to organize briefings to mobilize legislators around economic and peace issues. Additionally, the President and Ehrlichman reviewed the potentially problematic behavior of the President's brother, Donald Nixon, requesting CIA surveillance to manage the political risks associated with his foreign travel and business dealings.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met to coordinate the logistics and staffing for an upcoming White House visit by a group of African athletes. The discussion included the participation of key aides, such as Henry Cashen, Charles Colson, and H.R. Haldeman, as well as the involvement of the official photographer, Ollie Atkins. Additionally, the President briefly touched upon fundraising efforts and the potential scheduling of a follow-up call with a political supporter.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the professional conduct and social habits of a third party, likely a high-ranking official or diplomat, during a recent trip. The conversation focuses on the subject's tendency to inappropriately fraternize with subordinates and service staff, which Nixon contrasts with his own philosophy on maintaining clear boundaries of rank. The participants reflect on how this behavior undermines the formal distance necessary for leadership.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss various administrative, political, and personnel matters, including the need for standardized internal procedures and the management of staff productivity. The conversation touched upon political challenges, specifically regarding civil rights, public perception, and diplomatic relations with China. They also reviewed specific staffing and testimony issues involving subordinates, emphasizing the importance of timing and strategic presentation in political decision-making.
President Richard Nixon and Henry Kissinger coordinated a schedule for an upcoming meeting, ensuring Kissinger arrived before another visitor to discuss ongoing foreign policy developments. The discussion primarily served as a logistical bridge to facilitate a more substantive, private consultation later that afternoon. The pair agreed to meet at 3:00 p.m. to review sensitive diplomatic matters.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, to discuss the President's daily schedule and upcoming arrangements regarding Henry Kissinger. The conversation served to coordinate administrative logistics for the executive office. Beyond these scheduling matters, the majority of the recording consists of personal or restricted material that has been withdrawn.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, to discuss the President's upcoming schedule. The conversation focused briefly on the logistics of Henry Kissinger's itinerary. No substantive policy decisions were recorded during this brief administrative check-in.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to review the progress of delicate, back-channel diplomatic efforts to open relations with the People's Republic of China. The discussion focused on maintaining strict discretion regarding upcoming trips and managing the political fallout from domestic figures, such as other politicians or Cabinet members like Secretary of State William P. Rogers, seeking to involve themselves in the process. The two agreed on the necessity of shielding the sensitive negotiations from external interference and ensuring that the diplomatic initiative remained firmly under the control of the President.
On July 20, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 3:35 pm and 3:41 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 263-006 of the White House Tapes.
On July 20, 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 3:35 pm and 3:41 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 263-007 of the White House Tapes.