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 42 of 211President Nixon directed Alexander Haig to formulate a strategy for reducing foreign aid to specific nations, explicitly targeting countries that lack contested democratic elections. Nixon dismissed concerns regarding the political optics or difficulty of such a policy, insisting that the process of cutting aid to these governments would be straightforward. This brief discussion prioritized the strategic realignment of American foreign assistance by conditioning it on domestic political governance.
On September 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:25 pm and 12:37 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-020 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon instructed Alexander M. Haig, Jr. to expand a foreign aid report to include all recipient nations, ensuring the analysis reflects the actual nature of their political processes. Nixon expressed frustration that previous drafts failed to critically assess whether countries—including Vietnam, Mexico, and Colombia—maintained legitimately contested elections rather than one-party or authoritarian systems. He directed Haig to ensure the report provides an honest accounting of these political structures to inform administration policy.
President Nixon instructed Alexander Haig to broaden the criteria for evaluating foreign democratic processes beyond a limited focus on only two nations. Nixon emphasized that assessments of legitimate governance should center on whether a country holds truly contested elections rather than one-party systems or non-competitive processes. He specifically cited countries like Mexico, Colombia, and Ethiopia as examples of nations that fail to meet this standard of a contested, democratic election.
On September 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:39 pm and 2:32 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-022 of the White House Tapes.
On September 15, 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 12:39 pm and 1:05 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 277-009 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to coordinate media strategy, specifically focusing on enforcing a restrictive approach toward press interviews to maintain leverage over major news outlets. They discussed ongoing efforts to limit unauthorized access to sensitive documents, particularly those held by Henry Kissinger's staff, and finalized plans to tighten the President's schedule to allow for greater flexibility. Furthermore, the two reviewed the administration's stance on critical press coverage, including the recent book by Evans and Novak, while debating the political effectiveness of various public engagement tactics like small-group meetings and presidential travel.
President Nixon briefly spoke with Manolo Sanchez in the President's office. The conversation appears to be a personal one, with Sanchez requesting a "sheet book" or "leaflet" and discussing an individual named Sally. Nixon gave permission for Sally to leave, indicating she could go whenever she wished.
On September 15, 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 2:10 pm and 2:30 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 277-012 of the White House Tapes.
On September 15, 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 2:10 pm and 2:30 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 277-013 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Alexander P. Butterfield to review and finalize specific details regarding the President’s upcoming daily schedule. The brief two-minute session served as a logistical consultation to ensure alignment on administrative arrangements. No further actions were recorded beyond this review of the presidential itinerary.
On September 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander M. Haig, Jr. talked on the telephone from 2:32 pm to 2:33 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-023 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander M. Haig, Jr. held a brief, one-minute meeting in the Old Executive Office Building to coordinate administrative or security matters. The discussion occurred in conjunction with a longer, more substantive consultation between the two men held earlier that day. No specific policy decisions were finalized during this particular interaction.
On September 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:33 pm and 2:37 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-024 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to coordinate strategy ahead of an upcoming presidential press conference. The discussion focused on finalizing necessary documentation and briefing materials to ensure the President was prepared for the event. Nixon expressed satisfaction with Kissinger’s preparation, specifically approving a memo related to foreign aid policy.
On September 15, 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 2:33 pm and 2:37 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 277-017 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon directed Alexander M. Haig, Jr. to prepare statistical comparisons of recent Vietnam War casualties against historical lows from the past five years. The President sought to identify the most compelling timeframe—ranging from four weeks to three months—to frame casualty figures for potential public use. Haig was tasked with providing this data efficiently without overextending administrative resources.
President Nixon met with Alexander Haig and Henry Kissinger to strategize on public relations, the upcoming U.S. troop withdrawal schedule, and foreign policy maneuvers regarding the People's Republic of China and Vietnam. The discussion focused on timing troop announcements to maintain political leverage, counter domestic critics, and navigate delicate diplomatic relations with the USSR and North Vietnam. The participants agreed that sustaining a phased withdrawal—coupled with strategic public disclosures—was essential to maintain executive authority and protect the administration’s negotiating position ahead of the President's planned summit travel.
On September 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:15 pm and 4:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-026 of the White House Tapes.
On September 15, 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 3:15 pm and 4:15 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 277-019 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed political strategy regarding the 1972 campaign, focusing on exploiting recent controversial statements made by Edmund Muskie. They analyzed public sentiment surrounding the Attica prison riots, the administration's economic policies, and the busing issue to solidify support for the President. The conversation culminated in a plan to mobilize congressional support for federal pay policies and to frame the administration's wage-price freeze as a necessary effort for national sacrifice.
President Nixon and Charles Colson met to discuss political strategy regarding the administration's economic policies and public polling. They assessed partisan support for the President's wage and price freeze initiatives, noting that public sentiment remained generally positive toward these measures. The conversation further touched upon political optics, including the importance of maintaining control over economic messaging to sustain voter support.
On September 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:38 pm and 4:44 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-028 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with an unidentified individual in the Old Executive Office Building to coordinate scheduling matters. While the lack of a transcript obscures the specific nature of the appointment or logistical requirements, the discussion centered on arranging the President's upcoming agenda. This brief interaction serves as a record of administrative time management within the executive office.
On September 15, 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 4:38 pm and 4:44 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 277-022 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and George Shultz discuss the economic outlook, specifically reviewing second and third-quarter growth estimates and recent positive automobile sales data. Nixon emphasizes the need to communicate that the post-90-day Phase II economic program will be effective, rather than relying solely on voluntary cooperation. Shultz confirms his involvement in drafting statements to address public concerns regarding wage and price standards, sanctions, and pay deferment policies.
President Nixon and George Shultz discuss the implementation of Phase II economic controls following the initial wage-price freeze. Nixon emphasizes the necessity of giving economic policies enforcement mechanisms, famously noting that one cannot have "jawbone without teeth." The two coordinate their messaging strategy to ensure the public perceives the forthcoming economic program as effective and decisive.
President Nixon inquired about the whereabouts of Alexander Butterfield, who was reportedly at a doctor's appointment and then getting a haircut. Nixon instructed Toni Sidley to have Butterfield come to him once he was finished, indicating a desire to speak with him. The conversation was brief and focused on coordinating Butterfield's availability.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman spoke to coordinate upcoming scheduling and finalize social plans for key administration officials. They briefly touched on the status of the stock market and shared mutual criticism regarding the utility of Governors' Conferences. Additionally, they decided to host a dinner at Camp David for the Quadriad and other key economic principals in early October to celebrate the completion of Phase II economic policy preparations.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss the implementation of an economic program, emphasizing the need for mandatory measures rather than voluntary cooperation. The discussion focused on establishing a firm stance regarding upcoming policy adjustments and ensuring the administration's program remains on track. They concluded the brief exchange by confirming the status of the current strategy, which was expected to remain unchanged for the following months.
President Nixon discusses social arrangements for an upcoming dinner involving guests and their spouses. The conversation focuses on logistics, including potential overnight accommodations and coordinating a specific end date for the visit. Nixon expresses a desire to ensure the guests are well-hosted, confirming final details to facilitate their travel and stay.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, to discuss administrative and logistical matters within the Executive Office Building. The conversation focused on the assembly of a briefing book, specifically addressing the inclusion of additional pages, and logistical arrangements regarding staff schedules, including the typing duties and departure of Sally Inge. No significant policy decisions were recorded during this brief coordination meeting.
On September 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:11 pm and 7:23 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-031 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to facilitate an outgoing call. The brief exchange focused exclusively on establishing a telephonic connection to a secondary party. No further substantive policy discussions occurred during this brief administrative interaction.
President Nixon held a brief administrative interaction with a White House operator to facilitate an outgoing call. The conversation serves primarily as a logistical connection point for the President to reach another party. No policy discussions or significant political decisions were recorded during this brief exchange.
On September 15, 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 7:23 pm and 9:30 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 277-031 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, in the Old Executive Office Building to discuss routine administrative and personal matters. The brief exchange focused on confirming that staff had been dismissed for the evening. No significant policy decisions or official government actions were recorded during this interaction.
On September 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 7:32 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-032 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:20 am and 10:33 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-035 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 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 9:20 am and 10:33 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-040 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 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 9:20 am and 10:33 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-041 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 9:20 am and 10:33 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-042 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 9:20 am and 10:33 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-043 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 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 9:20 am and 10:33 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-044 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and an unknown associate discuss urgent legislative strategies regarding an extension bill for the military draft. The participants analyze the timing of a recent legislative vote and the necessity of coordinating with figures like George P. Shultz and F. Edward Hébert to influence the Senate. Nixon emphasizes the need for a swift, decisive approach to manage political deadlines and ensure the success of the administration's policy objectives.
On September 16, 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 9:20 am and 10:33 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-046 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, unknown person(s), H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman, White House operator, and Clark MacGregor met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 9:20 am and 10:33 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-067 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield talked on the telephone from 10:33 am to 10:34 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-036 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 10:33 am to 10:34 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-047 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:34 am and 10:48 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-037 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the stalled peace negotiations regarding Vietnam and the critical, unresolved issue of American prisoners of war. Facing pressure from Senator Mike Mansfield to set a withdrawal deadline, Nixon expresses frustration with the political opposition and orders an urgent, independent military and political assessment from Sir Robert Thompson. Additionally, the pair reviews the status of the Draft Extension Bill, with Nixon expressing deep skepticism regarding the feasibility and cost of transitioning to an all-volunteer military.
On September 16, 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 10:34 am and 10:48 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-049 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss economic and military data intended to support administration foreign policy objectives. The President requests comparative statistics on Japan’s Gross National Product versus the rest of Asia, as well as a breakdown of the U.S. military budget relative to those of Europe and Japan. This information is sought to substantiate arguments regarding the distribution of global defense burdens and international financial contributions.
President Nixon and Congressman F. Edward Hébert discussed legislative strategy regarding the extension of the military draft, emphasizing the need to maintain a hardline stance to protect national security interests. Nixon requested that Hébert avoid making immediate public comments if an initial vote fails, instead deferring to the President so they can coordinate a secondary strategy with key allies like Leslie Arends and John Stennis. Additionally, Nixon agreed to attend Hébert's 70th birthday portrait-hanging ceremony on October 12, 1971, contingent upon their continued collaboration on the draft legislation.
President Nixon, Representative F. Edward Hébert, and Henry Kissinger discussed legislative strategies for securing a draft extension bill, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining national security and presidential authority. The participants strategized on how to manage congressional opposition and media pressure, specifically regarding artificial Vietnam withdrawal deadlines and the potential political fallout of the Mansfield amendment. Nixon and his advisors also reviewed foreign policy accomplishments and agreed to adopt an aggressive, non-defensive public stance regarding Vietnam and the Attica prison riots to counter critical media narratives.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:15 am and 11:48 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-039 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to coordinate strategy regarding the pending draft extension bill and upcoming diplomatic events. The discussion focused on securing legislative support from congressional leaders like F. Edward Hébert and managing the political narrative around the volunteer army and forthcoming summit announcements. Nixon also instructed Haldeman to coordinate with Clark MacGregor to ensure a friendly question regarding foreign policy is planted at the President’s next press conference.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the political optics surrounding the Attica prison uprising, specifically weighing how Governor Nelson Rockefeller should handle the situation in light of forthcoming public opinion polls. The President also touches upon a potential meeting with former Miss America Phyllis George to build public rapport. The dialogue emphasizes the need to proactively refine messaging strategies before unfavorable poll data is released.
On September 16, 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 11:15 am and 11:48 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-054 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the political management of the Mack Truck deal with the Soviet Union, emphasizing the need for a swift and effective public relations strategy to address political fallout. The two also coordinated the President’s messaging regarding the UN Security Council vote on China, specifically focusing on the US stance on Taiwan. Additionally, they reviewed protocol for a potential meeting with Soviet Foreign Minister Andrei Gromyko and addressed the broader implications of US policy toward Vietnam.
On September 16, 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 11:15 am and 11:48 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-056 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and George Shultz discuss the need to curb public speculation by administration officials regarding the structure of the upcoming Phase II wage and price controls. Nixon expresses concern that comments from cabinet members, specifically Maurice Stans, prematurely signal policy decisions and undermine the administration's credibility. To maintain control over his options, Nixon instructs Shultz to issue a memorandum directing officials to refrain from speculating on the final program until a formal decision is announced.
President Nixon and George Shultz discuss the need to suppress public speculation regarding the administration’s forthcoming economic policies on wages and prices. Nixon emphasizes the importance of maintaining silence to preserve his executive options and international negotiating leverage, particularly regarding Japan. Shultz agrees to issue a memorandum instructing officials to avoid guessing the President's final decision to ensure continued credibility in upcoming consultations.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:50 am and 1:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-041 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the management of a pending announcement regarding an accidental event. The two determined that the situation would not be made public that day to ensure proper coordination. They agreed to deflect press inquiries by stating that the matter remained under active consideration.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss the management of White House staff interactions with the press and the logistical preparations for an upcoming meeting with state and local officials. Nixon expresses frustration over staff members spending excessive time with journalists and mandates a more disciplined communications strategy, specifically regarding speculation on sensitive policy issues. They further review the roles of key advisors, including Henry Kissinger and Clark MacGregor, emphasizing the need for a unified, cautious stance on administration initiatives.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, to discuss the needs of the President’s Irish Setter, King Timahoe. The brief exchange focused on coordinating a walk for the dog, with Nixon authorizing Sanchez to take the animal outside immediately. The conversation was strictly informal and centered on managing the President's pet.
On September 16, 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 11:50 am and 1:45 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-061 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 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 11:50 am and 1:45 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-062 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 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 11:50 am and 1:45 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-063 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed strategies to implement an aggressive public relations campaign aimed at labeling Senate Democrats as obstructionists, particularly regarding the Vietnam War and national defense issues. Nixon directed Haldeman to coordinate with Charles Colson to develop a media plan utilizing columnists like Victor Lasky to counter Democratic opposition. While Nixon emphasized the need to maintain a level of separation from the direct political attacks, he pushed for the White House communications team to aggressively challenge Democratic legislative maneuvers.
On September 16, 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 11:50 am and 1:45 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-065 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss congressional legislative maneuvering regarding the draft extension bill, specifically focusing on the efforts of Senators Cranston and Allott and coordination with House leaders Hébert and Arends. The conversation also covered administrative details concerning the President's schedule, including logistics for an upcoming Apollo 15 dinner and public relations strategy for a trip to Detroit. Additionally, they reviewed political communications, briefly touching on the role of Vice President Agnew and reactions to recent statements by Edmund Muskie.
Clark MacGregor updated President Nixon on legislative maneuvers regarding the draft, specifically noting Senator Gordon Allott's attempt to pressure the administration. Allott threatened to move to table legislation prematurely due to concerns about the Defense Procurement Act and the potential lack of support from Representatives F. Edward Hébert and Leslie C. Arends. Nixon refused to contact Hébert and Arends until the legislative action was completed, but he authorized MacGregor to assure Allott of a future meeting involving key stakeholders like Senators John C. Stennis and Margaret Chase Smith to discuss the administration's position.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the legislative strategy surrounding a critical vote on the Military Procurement Act. After Senate leaders failed to force a vote on a tabling amendment that day, the administration shifted its focus to securing support for the following morning. Nixon directed George P. Shultz to coordinate with congressional leaders F. Edward Hébert, Leslie C. Arends, Margaret Chase Smith, and John C. Stennis to ensure the amendment is defeated without the President needing to personally intervene.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 2:10 pm and 2:47 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-068 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss political maneuvering regarding the draft extension bill and concerns over a lack of support from Senator George L. Allott. The two assess motives behind congressional resistance and evaluate whether to leverage economic data provided by George P. Shultz to influence legislative outcomes. The conversation concludes with Nixon considering direct intervention to pressure stakeholders and secure his administration's objectives.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to coordinate legislative strategy regarding the draft extension bill, specifically focusing on managing key congressional figures like Gordon L. Allott and Clark MacGregor. The discussion addressed the need for securing stronger leadership support for the President's agenda within Congress. They further considered the role of Attorney General John N. Mitchell in facilitating meetings with Republican legislators to align their efforts with White House objectives.
On September 16, 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 3:00 pm and 3:41 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-071 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed the political strategy surrounding the upcoming draft extension bill in Congress. They focused on securing necessary Republican votes and managing the legislative maneuverings of Senator Richard S. Schweiker. Haldeman was tasked with coordinating with George P. Shultz to follow up with key committee leaders, including F. Edward Hébert, Margaret Chase Smith, and John C. Stennis, to ensure the bill's success.
On September 16, 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 3:43 pm and 4:00 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-073 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his staff and members of the press to review his recent, highly effective performance during a press conference. They discussed the tactical success of his responses regarding key administration initiatives, including the military draft extension, Phase II of his economic policy, and his upcoming summit in the People's Republic of China. The conversation underscored the administration's determination to maintain the draft to safeguard U.S. peace initiatives and focused on framing the South Vietnamese elections within a realistic, historical context of global democratic development. Finally, the group considered future media strategies and the need for supporting data regarding U.S. foreign aid distribution to bolster the President's public narrative.
President Nixon and Vice President Agnew met with a bipartisan group of state and local officials, including governors and mayors, to discuss the implementation of 'Phase II' of the administration’s economic stabilization program. The discussion centered on balancing the need for continued wage-price restraints with the financial pressures facing local governments, specifically regarding public employee salaries, teacher contracts, and revenue-sharing legislation. Nixon addressed concerns regarding corporate profit limitations, emphasizing the need for productivity and investment in new equipment to ensure international competitiveness, while agreeing to establish a formal mechanism for ongoing dialogue between local officials and the administration.
President Nixon and his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox, coordinate personal scheduling details regarding an upcoming astronaut dinner and an impending trip to Camp David. They specifically discuss room arrangements and meal logistics for the visit. Additionally, the pair plan to watch a televised appearance by First Lady Pat Nixon together.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed the political potential of the Apollo 15 astronauts, specifically Colonel David R. Scott, before moving into a broad review of administrative challenges and scheduling. The conversation addressed the frustrations of managing press relations—notably regarding books by Walter Hickel and columnists Evans and Novak—and compared the executive demands of the presidency with those of governors and mayors. The pair concluded by coordinating upcoming meetings, including sessions with Black military officers and the American Legion commander.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:22 pm and 9:03 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-046 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 9:03 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-047 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Patrick Buchanan discuss media strategy for an upcoming press conference, specifically focusing on handling questions regarding Edmund Muskie, the Attica prison riots, and foreign aid statistics. The President expresses his support for Nelson Rockefeller's management of the Attica crisis and notes his consideration of Senator Edward Brooke for a Supreme Court appointment. Additionally, Nixon instructs Buchanan to mobilize conservative allies to pressure the Senate regarding the draft and national defense appropriations, framing opposition to these measures as a vote against American security.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 9:12 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-049 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 9:13 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-050 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:13 pm and 9:17 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-051 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with Alexander Haig to discuss the reception of his recent press conference, specifically regarding his sharp rhetoric against Senate efforts to cut foreign aid. Nixon defended his stance as necessary, arguing that the legislative threats were irresponsible and suggesting a broader policy of cutting aid to numerous African nations if the Senate persisted. The two evaluated the political fallout of the remarks and briefly touched upon contingency plans for compromise should their legislative position weaken.
President Nixon met with Alexander P. Butterfield to coordinate logistics for Tricia Nixon Cox and her husband, Edward R.F. Cox, to stay at Camp David. The discussion focused on securing accommodations for the couple in the Aspen Lodge and planning for potential future housing arrangements. Nixon instructed Butterfield to work directly with Tricia to finalize these stay details.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:19 pm and 9:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-053 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with Major George K. Robinson, the Camp David commander, to coordinate logistics for an upcoming visit by the astronauts and their families. Nixon provided specific instructions regarding cabin assignments, the screening of multiple films to accommodate both children and adults, and access to the Aspen pool. He also inquired about the availability of recreational equipment, ultimately deciding to abandon plans for horseback riding after confirming none were on-site.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss strategies for securing a pivotal Senate vote on the military draft and managing the associated political fallout. Nixon emphasizes the national security implications of the draft, framing opposition as a threat to global peace initiatives and United States' standing. They assess the legislative outlook, expressing confidence that winning a key tabling motion will psychologically defeat the opposition and stall the ongoing debate.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss legislative strategy regarding upcoming congressional votes, specifically focusing on the need to maintain party discipline on Vietnam policy. They analyze how to pressure members of Congress and Vice President Spiro Agnew to align with the administration’s position, framing dissent as a threat to global peace negotiations. The discussion concludes with a push to break a potential filibuster to ensure the administration’s stance prevails.
President Nixon met with his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to review the daily news summary prepared by Patrick J. Buchanan. The discussion focused on coordinating the President's upcoming schedule and logistics regarding a visit from a new senator. No major policy decisions were recorded during this brief administrative briefing.
President Nixon met with an unidentified woman in the Oval Office to conduct routine administrative business. The discussion focused primarily on reviewing and securing the President's signature on various official documents. The meeting concluded with the woman's departure, signifying the completion of the requested paperwork.
On September 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:08 am and 9:17 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-057 of the White House Tapes.