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 85 of 211President Nixon and Henry Kissinger debriefed on a recent meeting with French intellectual André Malraux, focusing on his insights regarding the upcoming presidential trip to the People's Republic of China. They discussed the historical weight of the visit and the significance of Mao Tse-tung’s leadership style, comparing it to other world figures. Nixon emphasized the need to approach the China summit with confidence and dignity while dismissing the necessity of discussing economic aid, a topic he felt was better left to the Chinese to initiate.
On February 14, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:40 pm and 10:42 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-093 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Charles Colson reviewed the political landscape ahead of the President’s upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China, focusing on recent polling data and public sentiment. They analyzed the impact of Gallup and Samuel Lubell survey results regarding the Vietnam War, the President's approval ratings, and criticisms leveled by Edmund Muskie. The pair also discussed the political momentum of the 1972 election, including Jimmy Hoffa’s recent endorsement and strategies for managing the media narrative.
President Nixon speaks with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, to exchange pleasantries regarding a gift of flowers and to coordinate travel plans for an upcoming family visit to Camp David. They discuss the potential availability of Julie, Tricia Nixon Cox, and First Lady Pat Nixon to join the President at the retreat between February 15 and 16. Julie notes her commitments to a Ladies Auxiliary reception and a Lions Eye Bank event, and they conclude by directing the logistical arrangements for the trip to be handled through Stephen B. Bull.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss logistical arrangements for the upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China, emphasizing the need for strict control over media coverage to prevent unauthorized exclusives. They decide against granting early commitments to networks like ABC, opting instead to utilize a White House-contracted film unit to manage output. Additionally, the President deliberates on his post-trip schedule, specifically debating whether to stop in Anchorage to allow for a prime-time arrival in Washington, D.C., and expresses his personal disdain for hosting social dinners as a political outreach tool.
On February 15, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:30 am and 10:45 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-096 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox, discussed logistics regarding the family's schedule and upcoming travel plans. They coordinated the President’s planned trip to Camp David for work, as well as the respective locations and activities of Pat Nixon and Julie Nixon Eisenhower at the White House. Tricia explored the possibility of joining her father at Camp David during the afternoon.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to discuss administrative coordination, specifically reviewing recent interactions between John Connally, Arthur Burns, and George Shultz. The discussion touched on personnel management and the strategic handling of upcoming statements, particularly concerning busing and welfare reform. Nixon emphasized the need for clear accountability within his staff to ensure key policy objectives were effectively communicated.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield consult on administrative scheduling and personnel matters, specifically addressing potential judicial appointments and the political optics of the Supreme Court. Nixon expresses deep concern regarding the predictability of his own appointees and contemplates the necessity of a constitutional amendment to override potential judicial opposition. The discussion underscores the President's anxieties about maintaining control over the judiciary's direction and his desire to avoid the political liability of a partisan-branded court.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discussed scheduling and potential travel plans, specifically regarding a stay at Camp David and keeping Monday open for work. They also touched upon an unspecified "appearance in the country" and whether any actions were necessary regarding it.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull and Manolo Sanchez to coordinate his daily schedule and manage logistical arrangements, including the transport of personal items like books between the Oval Office and the Executive Office Building. The President focused on scheduling a meeting with Richard Kleindienst and sought to confirm the availability of an associate, identified in the transcript as Clayton, for a discussion regarding upcoming professional commitments. These routine administrative exchanges underscored the President's efforts to maintain control over his calendar and internal workflow.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and various staff members met to finalize the logistics and scheduling for the upcoming presidential trip to the People's Republic of China. The discussion focused on managing the President's daily schedule, including meeting times with Chou En-lai and Mao Tse-tung, while ensuring adequate downtime and physical recovery. Additionally, the participants reviewed domestic political concerns, including public reaction to the President's recent Vietnam peace proposal and potential strategies for handling press coverage and political opponents like Edmund Muskie.
President Nixon met with his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, to provide detailed instructions on editing and marking passages within specific books, including a copy of André Malraux's 'Anti-Memoirs.' The President directed Woods to highlight specific sentences and paragraphs regarding China while omitting other sections. Additionally, the pair briefly touched upon scheduling matters related to his office's Valentine's Day activities.
President Nixon, Rose Mary Woods, and H. R. Haldeman met to coordinate final logistics for the President's upcoming diplomatic trip to the People’s Republic of China, including the handling of correspondence from well-wishers and dignitaries like Lyndon B. Johnson. The discussion shifted to domestic management, where the President and Haldeman reviewed staffing adjustments, specifically the movement of personnel to support political operations under John Mitchell and the appointment of a new ambassador to Portugal. They ultimately decided to keep airport farewells low-profile to avoid political friction and prioritized streamlining White House staff responsibilities ahead of the campaign season.
In this meeting, President Nixon confers with Henry Kissinger regarding the upcoming China trip, focusing on the handling of sensitive issues like Taiwan and the importance of maintaining a firm stance on security commitments. Following this, Nixon meets with Richard Kleindienst and George Shultz to discuss Kleindienst’s transition into the Attorney General role, emphasizing the necessity of political pragmatism, staff discipline, and maintaining a unified front with John Connally on economic matters. The President also directs his team to manage volatile domestic issues—specifically busing and integrated housing—by prioritizing political strategy and controlled communication to avoid alienating key voter bases during the re-election campaign.
On February 16, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone from 8:05 pm to 8:13 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-098 of the White House Tapes.
On February 16, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Julie Nixon Eisenhower talked on the telephone from 8:13 pm to 8:14 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-099 of the White House Tapes.
On February 16, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:14 pm and 10:03 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-100 of the White House Tapes.
On February 16, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman talked on the telephone from 10:03 pm to 10:04 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-101 of the White House Tapes.
On February 17, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:11 am and 8:28 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-102 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon briefly met with Manolo Sanchez in the Oval Office. The conversation appears to be related to the Raymond K. Price, Jr. file, though the specific content and purpose remain unclear due to the recording beginning mid-conversation and the brevity of the exchange. Sanchez departed the Oval Office shortly after the meeting began.
President Nixon met with his valet, Manolo Sanchez, to briefly discuss and inspect the details of commemorative panda-themed gifts. The conversation focused on the selection and variety of these items, likely in anticipation of upcoming diplomatic exchanges. No substantive policy decisions were made during this short, informal interaction.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate administrative tasks regarding the distribution of internal documentation. The discussion focused on organizing and disseminating copies of materials to key staff members, including William L. Safire, Charles W. Colson, and George P. Shultz. The meeting concluded with instructions for Bull to manage these secretarial and distribution responsibilities.
President Nixon and Manolo Sanchez briefly met in the Oval Office to discuss preparations for Nixon's upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China. The primary topic of discussion was clothing selection for the trip, with Nixon considering which suit would be most appropriate. The conversation was very short, ending before 8:28 am.
President Nixon met with Alexander Butterfield and Stephen Bull to discuss administrative logistics and upcoming diplomatic preparations. The participants reviewed the content of an upcoming toast for Chinese Premier Chou En-lai, prepared in consultation with Henry Kissinger and the National Security Council, and addressed routine matters involving John Connally and the signing of documents with Rose Mary Woods. The brief session focused on coordinating White House workflows and final adjustments to presidential communications.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to facilitate an outgoing call. This brief interaction served as a routine logistical step to connect the President with another party. No substantive policy discussions or significant political decisions occurred during this exchange.
Governor Nelson Rockefeller called President Nixon to express strong support for the President’s upcoming historic trip to the People’s Republic of China, emphasizing the initiative's significance for global peace. The two discussed the complex negotiations regarding Taiwan and the positive public reception reflected in recent Gallup polling. To ensure continued collaboration, the President committed to having Henry Kissinger provide Rockefeller with a formal briefing on the trip upon his return.
President Nixon and Nelson Rockefeller met to discuss the upcoming political challenges of the election year, specifically regarding the economy and the administration's foreign policy objectives. Nixon emphasized the importance of international relations between major global powers and solicited Rockefeller's support for his scheduled remarks at an evening dinner. To ensure continued coordination, Nixon committed to having Henry Kissinger provide a briefing to Rockefeller in New York.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull briefly discussed the dispatch of a staff letter, specifically a photostatic copy, to Alice Roosevelt Longworth. The purpose of the meeting was to confirm the delivery of this item. No significant decisions or action items beyond the confirmation of sending the letter were noted.
President Nixon met with Alexander P. Butterfield to finalize the agenda for an upcoming session with congressional leadership. The discussion focused on a resolution introduced by Representative Leslie C. Arends, which the President formally reviewed and approved for the meeting. The brief exchange ensured that the administration’s legislative strategy remained aligned with key congressional allies.
President Nixon instructed Stephen B. Bull to deliver an item to Leslie C. Arends at the request of Henry Kissinger. The brief meeting in the Oval Office focused solely on this delivery task. No other significant topics or decisions were discussed.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed communication strategies and talking points for the President’s upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China, specifically focusing on the tone for addressing Zhou En-lai and handling press inquiries during a planned stop in Hawaii. The pair also coordinated logistical and thematic plans for an upcoming meeting with Congressional leadership, including the potential role of Secretary of State William P. Rogers. Additionally, they reviewed strategies for managing the PRC's complex concerns regarding the Soviet Union and the Vietnam conflict.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull in the Oval Office to briefly coordinate the President's daily schedule. The primary focus of the discussion was confirming an upcoming appointment with Henry Kissinger. The interaction concluded quickly as Bull exited the office immediately following the briefing.
On February 17, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and bipartisan Congressional leaders, including Vice President Spiro T. Agnew, William P. Rogers, Michael J. ("Mike") Mansfield, Robert C. Byrd, J. William Fulbright, John C. Stennis, Gale W. McGee, Hugh Scott, Robert P. Griffin, Margaret Chase Smith, George D. Aiken, Milton R. Young, Barry M. Goldwater, Carl B. Albert, [Thomas] Hale Boggs, F. Edward Hébert; Dr. Thomas E. ("Doc") Morgan, George H. Mahon, Gerald R. Ford, Leslie C. Arends, William S. Mailliard, Henry A. Kissinger, William E. Timmons, Richard K. Cook, Thomas C. Korologos, John A. Scali, Ronald L. Ziegler, Alexander M. Haig, Jr., John D. Ehrlichman, the White House photographer, and members of the press, met in the Cabinet Room of the White House from 9:22 am to 10:00 am. The Cabinet Room taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 091-001 of the White House Tapes.
On February 28, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:42 pm and 2:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-115 of the White House Tapes.
On February 28, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:42 pm and 2:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-116 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Clark MacGregor discuss the highly positive reception from congressional leaders, including Barry Goldwater and J. William Fulbright, regarding the President's recent diplomatic trip to the People's Republic of China. MacGregor emphasizes the Senate's pride in the upcoming visit of Majority Leader Mike Mansfield and Minority Leader Hugh Scott to China, noting it bolsters institutional morale. The conversation also touches upon managing Fulbright's specific concerns regarding Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty, as well as the President’s need for rest following his intense workload during the trip.
On February 28, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 10:46 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-104 of the White House Tapes.
On February 28, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 10:46 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-143 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman debrief the successful conclusion of the President's trip to China, focusing on the positive public reception at Andrews Air Force Base and the favorable stock market performance. The conversation shifts to managing press relations, specifically addressing a critical Washington Post headline regarding Taiwan policy that drew concern from press secretary Ron Ziegler. Despite these media challenges, the participants reaffirm the overall success of the diplomatic mission and discuss the ongoing efforts of Henry Kissinger to brief domestic political leaders.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger debriefed the President's recent trip to the People's Republic of China via telephone. They discussed the public and political reception of the trip, particularly addressing concerns raised by a Washington Post headline that misinterpreted the communiqué regarding Taiwan. They also strategized on how to manage media narratives and political figures like Ronald Reagan and Barry Goldwater, and touched upon messages exchanged with the Soviet Union and Nixon's upcoming meeting with Ambassador Dobrynin.
On February 28, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:00 pm and 11:05 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-107 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discuss their strategy for an upcoming briefing with Congressional leaders following Nixon's historic trip to the People's Republic of China. They coordinate their public messaging regarding the Nixon Doctrine, the U.S. commitment to Taiwan, and the necessity of maintaining a military presence in Japan and Europe to counter the Soviet threat. Additionally, Nixon decides to announce at the meeting that the Chinese government has extended an invitation to Senators Mike Mansfield and Hugh Scott to visit China, a move intended to bolster bipartisan support.
On February 28, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone from 11:11 pm to 11:12 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-109 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John B. Connally discuss the aftermath of the President’s recent trip to the People's Republic of China, specifically focusing on the overwhelming public relations success and media domination surrounding the visit. Nixon characterizes his negotiations with Chinese leaders Mao Tse-tung and Chou En-lai as firm and pragmatic. They also address technical failures in the airport sound system during the President's return, leading Nixon to offer a summary of his remarks for an upcoming cabinet meeting.
On February 28, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:15 pm and 11:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-111 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the positive public reception of the President's return from his historic trip to the People's Republic of China. The pair evaluates media coverage of the visit, specifically addressing inaccurate reporting by the Washington Post regarding U.S. defense commitments to Taiwan. Nixon directs Ziegler to deflect further press inquiries on the Taiwan issue by referring back to previous statements made by himself and Henry Kissinger to avoid complicating sensitive diplomatic relations.
On February 28, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:25 pm and 11:28 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-113 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Charles G. “Bebe” Rebozo held a brief, informal telephone conversation to discuss personal scheduling and the political aftermath of the President’s recent trip to the People’s Republic of China. Rebozo shared his perspective on the Democratic Party's reaction to the visit, and the two men coordinated potential plans for a presidential trip to Florida. The call concluded with updates on their respective work obligations and upcoming social engagements.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:10 am and 8:55 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 675-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed the President’s upcoming daily agenda, specifically coordinating logistical details regarding Tricia Nixon Cox’s evening visit. The conversation also touched upon the timing of a planned trip to Camp David. The discussion served as a brief administrative briefing to synchronize the First Family’s schedule.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed the logistical details and attendance rosters for ongoing White House staff meetings. The conversation focused on the transition from a larger early-morning session to smaller, more intimate gatherings in the Roosevelt Room involving key advisors such as John Ehrlichman, George Shultz, and Charles Colson. Bull briefed the President on the presence of specific staff members and confirmed that Nixon would have opportunities to engage with these officials throughout the remainder of the morning.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:10 am and 8:55 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 675-004 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:10 am and 8:55 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 675-005 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:10 am and 8:55 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 675-006 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:10 am and 8:55 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 675-007 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, Henry Kissinger, H.R. Haldeman, and others discussed the President's recent trip to the People's Republic of China, including press reaction, health, and the upcoming schedule. They also touched on President Nixon's upcoming trip to the USSR and reviewed various White House staff matters and upcoming events. Later, Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield and Senate Minority Leader Hugh Scott joined to discuss the PRC's invitation for them to visit China, which President Nixon facilitated.
President Nixon met with a bipartisan group of Congressional leaders to provide a firsthand report on his recent diplomatic mission to the People's Republic of China (PRC). During the briefing, the President discussed his interactions with Chinese leadership, the strategic importance of establishing communication channels, and the complex geopolitical dynamics concerning Taiwan and the broader Pacific region. The meeting emphasized the necessity of maintaining trust and diplomatic dialogue to navigate future international relations and manage long-term foreign policy objectives.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed Secretary of State William P. Rogers's recent briefings regarding the President's historic trip to the People's Republic of China. Nixon and Kissinger expressed deep frustration with Rogers for his dismissive and derogatory remarks about the Chinese society, fearing that his characterization of China as a "slave society" or "Bronx Zoo" undermined the administration's delicate diplomatic progress. The two agreed that Rogers's commentary was strategically damaging and decided to monitor his future public statements closely, prepared to disavow him if his disparaging rhetoric leaked to the press.
President Nixon met with Ronald Ziegler and Stephen Bull to finalize administrative arrangements for Peter G. Peterson’s swearing-in ceremony. Nixon explicitly directed that no talking points be provided for the event and instructed staff to ensure the press was quickly removed following the oath. The brief discussion also touched upon the scheduling of a Cabinet meeting and an associated photograph session.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Cabinet officers and staffers, including William P. Rogers, John B. Connally, Melvin R. Laird, John N. Mitchell, Rogers C. B. Morton, J. Philip Campbell, Peter G. Peterson, James D. Hodgson, Elliot L. Richardson, George W. Romney, John A. Volpe, David M. Kennedy, George P. Shultz, George H. W. Bush, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman, John D. Ehrlichman, Henry A. Kissinger, Peter M. Flanigan, Clark MacGregor, Dr. Edward E. David, Jr., Herbert G. Klein, Raymond K. Price, Jr., Ronald L. Ziegler, Alexander P. Butterfield, John A. Scali, Harry S. Dent, Frederic V. Malek, William L. Safire, Charles W. Colson, General Alexander M. Haig, Jr., Robert J. Brown, Dwight L. Chapin, Virginia H. Knauer, Rose Mary Woods, John A. Hannah, Richard M. Helms, Frank J. Shakespeare, Herbert Stein, Caspar W. ("Cap") Weinberger, Maurice H. Stans, Arthur J. Sohmer, and the White House photographer, met in the Cabinet Room of the White House from 12:02 pm to 1:20 pm. The Cabinet Room taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 093-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to coordinate the logistics for the swearing-in ceremony of Peter G. Peterson. They discussed the involvement of Judge Gerald Reilly regarding a vacancy on the D.C. Court of Appeals and addressed the need for immediate press engagement. Nixon instructed Bull to expedite the scheduling of the event and ensure that the official photograph and press release were disseminated promptly.
President Nixon held an Oval Office meeting with Peter G. Peterson, his family, and members of the Cabinet to commemorate Peterson's recent Senate confirmation. The event served primarily as a formal ceremony for the administration of the oath of office and a subsequent photograph session with White House photographer Ollie Atkins. The interaction concluded with informal social conversation regarding Camp David and scheduling logistics.
President Nixon, Henry Kissinger, and H.R. Haldeman meet to discuss the fallout from the President’s recent trip to the People's Republic of China, expressing significant frustration with Secretary of State William P. Rogers. The President and Kissinger characterize Rogers's performance at recent Cabinet and Congressional briefings as self-serving, petty, and damaging to the administration’s foreign policy objectives. They decide that Rogers must be prevented from further undermining the trip’s significance, particularly regarding his negative depictions of the Chinese government, and discuss plans to marginalize his influence in future briefings and communications.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, to discuss the President's immediate schedule and lunch arrangements. During this brief interaction, Nixon inquired about the availability of staff while preparing to break for a meal. The conversation served as a routine logistical check-in regarding the President's personal needs for the afternoon.
On February 29, 1972, 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 2:42 pm and 2:48 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 322-002 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 2:42 pm and 2:48 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 322-003 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, 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 2:42 pm and 2:48 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 322-004 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Clark MacGregor briefly discussed the ongoing challenges regarding public messaging and the management of political expectations. They addressed the necessity of adding nuance to their outreach efforts while acknowledging the limitations in establishing new governmental institutions. The President encouraged MacGregor to maintain a visible and authoritative presence to help boost morale and maintain momentum for the administration’s agenda.
Charles W. Colson calls President Nixon to offer congratulations and share positive domestic feedback following the President's recent trip to the People's Republic of China. Colson emphasizes that the President's demeanor and confidence during the visit successfully impressed the public and converted political skeptics. The brief conversation concludes with the President requesting that Colson call back in five minutes so he can address pending administrative paperwork.
President Nixon and Charles W. Colson engaged in a brief, informal check-in regarding the pressures of the administration. The exchange reflects a moment of frustration regarding internal communication and the constant state of political crisis. They agreed to reconnect in five minutes to address more substantive matters.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:53 pm and 2:56 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-119 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 2:53 pm and 2:56 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 322-007 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, Manolo Sanchez, and Lawrence M. Higby met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 2:53 pm and 2:56 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 322-008 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, 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 2:53 pm and 2:56 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 322-009 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed the positive public reception of the President's recent trip to the People's Republic of China, emphasizing how Nixon's poise and confidence helped cultivate a stronger, more favorable personal image among the American public. Colson shared feedback from various media figures and pollsters, noting that observers were particularly impressed by the President's leadership during the trip, even amidst critical reporting regarding the Taiwan issue. The pair agreed that the successful projection of presidential strength and control was vital for political standing, and they coordinated efforts to push back against unfavorable media coverage, specifically targeting the reporting of Dan Rather.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss the political fallout and public perception following the President's recent trip to China. They analyze the impact of media coverage, specifically criticizing negative headlines, while assessing how the trip bolstered Nixon's personal image despite unfavorable reporting on his family. The conversation focuses on leveraging this positive momentum in public opinion to bolster the administration's standing for the upcoming election cycle.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman talked on the telephone from 3:17 pm to 3:19 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-121 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 3:17 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 322-011 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 3:17 pm to 3:18 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 322-012 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:18 pm and 8:40 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-122 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met briefly to coordinate administrative logistics and scheduling for upcoming White House events. The conversation focused on managing the attendance of key staff members, including H. R. Haldeman, Ronald Ziegler, and Alexander Haig, at a forthcoming dinner. Additionally, the President offered casual remarks regarding Kissinger’s personal grooming and evening plans, underscoring the informal nature of the scheduling coordination.
President Nixon and his advisors met to address the fallout from Secretary of State William P. Rogers's behavior and public statements during the recent presidential trip to the People's Republic of China. The participants expressed frustration with Rogers's perceived hostility toward their Chinese hosts, which they believed undermined delicate diplomatic progress and threatened to damage U.S. foreign policy interests. Consequently, the President instructed H. R. Haldeman and Alexander Haig to convey to Rogers that he must cease making independent remarks on Taiwan and adhere strictly to the established administration position to avoid further diplomatic friction.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 4:00 pm and 6:18 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 322-015 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 4:00 pm and 6:18 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 322-016 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 4:00 pm and 6:18 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 322-017 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinate logistical arrangements for an upcoming trip to Florida, specifically discussing the scheduling and passenger manifests for the presidential and staff aircraft. The conversation also addresses media coverage regarding the President's recent visit to the People’s Republic of China, including reactions from political leaders and editorial columnists. Additionally, they touch upon the President's immediate schedule, which includes planned bill signings and meetings with various administration officials.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:47 pm and 8:49 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-124 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss the aftermath of Nixon's historic trip to the People's Republic of China, specifically focusing on Secretary of State William P. Rogers's critical reaction to the visit. The conversation highlights friction regarding the administration's policy toward Taiwan and the PRC, with Nixon expressing frustration over Rogers's perceived lack of understanding of the geopolitical nuances. Haig affirms his support for the trip's success before Nixon requests a briefing call with Henry Kissinger.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss logistics for upcoming travel to Florida and coordinate the messaging for Kissinger’s interactions with the Nixon family. The conversation addresses reports of skepticism from Secretary of State William P. Rogers regarding the President’s China policy, which Nixon and Kissinger dismiss as a lack of understanding. The two reaffirm their control over foreign policy strategy, specifically regarding China, the Soviet Union, and Vietnam negotiations.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:57 pm and 9:05 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-127 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:57 pm and 9:05 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-128 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Hobart D. Lewis discuss the success and geopolitical implications of the President’s recent trip to the People's Republic of China. Lewis praises the media coverage of the visit, particularly the performances of the President and First Lady Pat Nixon, while both men emphasize the strategic impact of the trip on Soviet-American relations. They also touch upon upcoming Reader's Digest coverage by James Michener and dismiss critical newspaper reporting regarding the administration's policy on Taiwan.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:08 pm and 9:13 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-130 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Senate Minority Leader Hugh Scott discussed the upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China by Scott and Senator Mike Mansfield. Nixon instructed Scott to mitigate friction with the House of Representatives by emphasizing that future trips would likely include House members. Additionally, the President advised Scott to maintain a measured diplomatic stance regarding Taiwan to avoid provoking a negative reaction from Chinese officials.
President Nixon and his close friend Charles G. “Bebe” Rebozo discuss the overwhelming positive public reaction to the President’s recent historic trip to the People's Republic of China. Rebozo praises the diplomatic mission as a monumental achievement that has deeply moved the American public. The brief call also touches upon logistical preparations for the President’s upcoming trip to Florida with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:19 pm and 11:59 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-133 of the White House Tapes.
On March 1, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:12 am and 8:50 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-134 of the White House Tapes.
On March 1, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:12 am and 8:32 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 676-001 of the White House Tapes.
On March 1, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:12 am and 8:32 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 676-002 of the White House Tapes.