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 9 of 211On April 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Thelma C. ("Pat") (Ryan) Nixon met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 6:21 pm to 6:22 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 249-028 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss political strategy, the administration's public image, and potential personnel changes within the Cabinet. They analyzed the President's recent leadership on key policy decisions, such as the troop withdrawal from Vietnam, contrasting his approach with the political advice he received. Furthermore, Nixon evaluated the effectiveness of various staff members and Cabinet secretaries, expressing a desire for more enthusiastic and effective 'salesmen' to represent his administration's agenda.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss the historic performance of the stock market and the strategic value of meeting with key financial industry leaders to signal economic confidence. Nixon instructs Haldeman to expand a proposed meeting with Bernard Lasker into a larger gathering of influential Wall Street figures, such as Gustave Levy and Donald Regan, to maximize the political impact. The President emphasizes that a broader group of “real wheels” would better project national buoyancy than a solitary meeting with a single associate.
On April 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 7:30 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-099 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 7:31 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-100 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the administration's ongoing diplomatic initiatives, specifically focusing on the recent outreach to the People's Republic of China and the resulting reactions from the Soviet Union and the press. Kissinger provided an update on his interview with Newsweek, asserting that the China initiative had successfully overshadowed Vietnam in the media, and expressed optimism that a breakthrough in Vietnam negotiations could occur suddenly due to Asian negotiation patterns. The two also addressed concerns regarding Soviet agitation and potential future diplomatic moves, with Nixon emphasizing the necessity of maintaining forward momentum despite the delicate international climate.
On April 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:42 pm and 7:47 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-102 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:42 pm and 7:47 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-103 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Treasury Secretary John B. Connally discuss the positive impact of the President’s April 7th Vietnam speech on global perception and market confidence. They reflect on how the speech’s firm tone signaled a long-term commitment to the conflict, effectively dissuading adversaries who feared a premature American withdrawal. The brief dialogue serves to reinforce the administration's belief that a resolute stance on foreign policy was essential to maintaining international leverage.
President Nixon consulted with George P. Shultz regarding the administration's public messaging on recent positive economic indicators, specifically GNP growth and the rise in the stock market. The discussion focused on leveraging these favorable statistics to build public confidence without appearing to overstate the data or alienate CEA Chairman Paul McCracken. Shultz briefed the President on his upcoming speech, which would emphasize a steady economic course rather than reactionary policies like tax cuts.
On April 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone from 8:17 pm to 8:18 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-097 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 8:58 am and 9:40 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-001 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 8:58 am and 9:40 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman reviewed the President's upcoming schedule, including a Rose Garden reception for the Rio Grande City High School Student Council and a meeting with business leaders Bernard Lasker, John Connally, and Gustave Levy. They discussed press management regarding a Commerce Department consumer buying study and recent controversies surrounding the Vietnam War, particularly involving George McGovern and William Saxbe. Nixon also instructed Haldeman to facilitate a meeting with an unidentified individual, likely Senator Saxbe, to address these ongoing political disputes.
On April 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 8:58 am and 9:40 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-004 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to strategize for an upcoming press conference with the American Society of Newspaper Editors and to coordinate their diplomatic approach toward the People's Republic of China, Vietnam, and the Soviet Union. The President emphasized a cautious, step-by-step strategy for diplomatic normalization with China to avoid appearing overly anxious, while also discussing the ongoing conflict in India and Pakistan and the necessity of maintaining neutrality. Kissinger was instructed to coordinate with Senator Mike Mansfield regarding these initiatives, and the two men reviewed communication tactics for managing the press and potential congressional inquiries.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:30 am and 11:06 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 042-053 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 10:30 am and 11:06 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss strategies for securing congressional support for the administration's policies, specifically focusing on neutralizing opposition to the Vietnam War and the China initiative. They review the loyalties of Republican senators like Edward Brooke and William Saxbe, noting that these members' public support is effectively confusing and stalling liberal critics. Furthermore, they discuss the political utility of forthcoming poll data and the potential for anti-war protests to inadvertently strengthen the administration's core coalition.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss strategies for managing legislative relationships within the House and Senate. The conversation touches on the necessity of maintaining firm positions with lawmakers and addresses concerns regarding public or political sentiment. Colson notes his intention to handle specific tasks, including a planned trip to Seattle, as part of the administration's broader outreach and political strategy.
On April 16, 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 11:12 am and 11:20 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-008 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss political strategy, staffing needs, and the administration's ongoing foreign and domestic initiatives. They focused on leveraging the recent "ping-pong diplomacy" with the People's Republic of China, evaluating the positive public response to the initiative, and coordinating future Cabinet changes to better align with the President's policy goals. Additionally, the pair strategized on managing political opposition, including handling potential protests on college campuses and addressing issues related to Prisoners of War.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:58 am and 12:07 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 482-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull and Mark I. Goode to coordinate logistics for upcoming White House events. The discussion focused on managing the scheduling and photography sessions for visiting student council members from Rio Grande, Texas, as well as a subsequent meeting with securities industry leaders. The participants reviewed the flow of these activities to ensure smooth operations for the day's appointments.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Mark I. Goode met in the Oval Office of the White House from 12:07 pm to 12:09 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 482-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with a delegation of Wall Street leaders, including Bernard Lasker, Albert Gordon, and Donald Regan, to discuss the state of the economy and the recent upswing in the stock market. The group presented the President with a bull statue as a gesture of their confidence in his economic policies and the administration's performance. Nixon and his guests analyzed positive economic indicators, such as growth in GNP, retail sales, and automobile manufacturing, while also touching upon the geopolitical implications of his foreign policy initiatives toward the People's Republic of China and the Soviet Union.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull in the Oval Office to discuss administrative logistics and the President's upcoming daily schedule. The primary focus of the brief meeting involved coordinating a future appointment with Alexander P. Butterfield. The conversation concluded with Bull departing the office shortly thereafter.
President Nixon hosted Alexander P. Butterfield, Jon M. Huntsman, and David Haight along with their spouses for a brief, informal social meeting in the Oval Office. The participants engaged in light conversation regarding weather, local dining, and Stanford University before transitioning into a ceremonial photo session with White House photographer Ollie Atkins. During the exchange, the President presented the guests with official cufflinks as commemorative gifts before concluding the visit.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House from 12:43 pm to 12:45 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 482-006 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 12:45 pm and 3:15 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-010 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 12:45 pm and 3:15 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-011 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 12:45 pm and 3:15 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-012 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 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 12:45 pm and 3:15 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-013 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 12:45 pm and 3:15 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-014 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler to strategize for an upcoming meeting with news editors regarding media criticism of FBI surveillance practices. Nixon expressed frustration over what he deemed irresponsible reporting by the Washington Post and the New York Times, particularly allegations of domestic spying on innocent citizens. He instructed Ziegler to forcefully defend the administration's policy by contrasting it with historical wiretapping practices during the Robert Kennedy era and emphasizing the necessity of surveillance for national security and crime prevention.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed the political implications and costs associated with recent bombings of federal buildings and university campuses, specifically referencing arson at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Nixon expressed frustration regarding the prevalence of radical leftist activities and sought to compile comprehensive statistics on such incidents through the FBI and GSA. The conversation also touched upon press reporting, the rising stock market, and scheduling matters for upcoming meetings with figures such as Mike Mansfield.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss preparations for an upcoming editors' meeting, specifically focusing on technical logistics like the use of a rostrum and the presidential seal. The President emphasizes the need for a more relaxed attitude toward press relations, arguing that his ability to answer questions directly provides a significant political advantage. Additionally, the pair briefly touches upon the President's diplomatic policy regarding the USSR and the domestic political landscape involving "hawks" and Senator Mike Mansfield.
On April 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 3:27 pm and 5:30 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-020 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 3:27 pm and 5:30 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-021 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 3:27 pm and 5:30 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-022 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss managing journalist John Scali, who is pushing for a more aggressive public relations campaign regarding the administration's China policy and Vietnam withdrawal plans. Nixon firmly rejects Scali's suggestions for premature withdrawal announcements, insisting that any public pronouncements on Vietnam be delayed until after Kissinger's scheduled meetings in Paris and consultations with South Vietnamese President Nguyen Van Thieu. Kissinger confirms he is maintaining contact with Scali to keep him aligned with administration strategy without adopting his disruptive proposals.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the tactical management of a sensitive diplomatic channel, specifically cautioning against pressuring an unnamed intermediary. The conversation centers on maintaining operational control while ensuring the intermediary is adequately informed of the administration's progress. They align their strategy to prioritize an upcoming meeting in Paris before advancing to subsequent phases of the diplomatic process.
On April 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 5:32 pm and 5:33 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-024 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1971, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone from 5:33 pm to 5:34 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 042-056 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon directs H. R. Haldeman to coordinate a meeting between Henry Kissinger, Ronald Ziegler, and journalist John Scali to manage Scali’s views on Vietnam and the administration's China initiative. Nixon expresses frustration with Scali’s perspectives and Kissinger’s handling of the situation, insisting that Haldeman facilitate the discussion to align their messaging. The President explicitly tasks Haldeman with managing these communications to shield himself from the direct conflict and ensure policy consistency.
On April 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 5:34 pm and 7:04 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-026 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 5:34 pm and 7:04 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-027 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 5:34 pm and 7:04 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-028 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 5:34 pm and 7:04 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-029 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 5:34 pm and 7:04 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-030 of the White House Tapes.
H. R. Haldeman briefed President Nixon on employment statistics within the steel industry to support a specific administration narrative. They confirmed that while the total number of steelworkers union members had increased, the actual number of employees working in the steel industry had declined by approximately 5% since 1960. Nixon intended to use these figures to emphasize the contraction of the industry's workforce during public discourse.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met briefly to discuss follow-up actions related to a previous conversation with Henry Kissinger and the administration's strategic response to media coverage. The discussion also touched upon preparations for an upcoming meeting with news editors. The dialogue remained informal, focusing on administrative coordination and media management tactics.
On April 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 7:05 pm and 8:00 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-032 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 7:05 pm and 8:00 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-033 of the White House Tapes.
On April 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 7:05 pm and 8:00 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 250-034 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with his aide Manolo Sanchez regarding the strategic significance of retail sales data. The brief exchange highlights the President's focus on economic indicators as a priority for his administration. No major policy shifts resulted from the call, though it emphasizes the President's direct involvement in monitoring economic trends.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 10:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-107 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the positive reception to the President’s recent interview with a group of newspaper editors and influential figures. They reviewed how Nixon maintained firm, non-committal positions on sensitive foreign policy issues, specifically Vietnam and China, while successfully defending the administration's stance on figures like J. Edgar Hoover and Spiro Agnew. The pair also addressed a minor technical discrepancy regarding the President’s announced Vietnam withdrawal date and exchanged pleasantries regarding guests at a dinner event.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:56 pm and 11:01 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-109 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:56 pm and 11:01 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-110 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:56 pm and 11:01 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-111 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Julie Nixon Eisenhower discuss their reactions to a recent media appearance or interview, specifically evaluating the President's performance in addressing younger generations. The President reflects on the effectiveness of his messaging regarding family values, ending the Vietnam War, and encouraging youth engagement in the American system. The brief exchange concludes with the President instructing the operator to place calls to Ron Ziegler and Herb Klein, indicating ongoing efforts to manage the administration's public relations.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 11:04 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-113 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon instructed Henry Kissinger to contact Otis Chandler to praise the quality of Chandler’s questions during a recent interview with newspaper editors. The discussion highlighted the administration’s strategy of cultivating positive relations with influential media figures following a session where topics like Asian policy, China, and environmental issues were addressed. Kissinger agreed to place the call immediately, noting the importance of the gesture in managing the press.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 11:09 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-115 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Julie Nixon Eisenhower talked on the telephone at 11:10 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-116 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:10 pm and 11:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-117 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:10 pm and 11:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-118 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger debrief following the President's interview with newspaper editors, evaluating the public reception of his comments on the People's Republic of China and Vietnam policy. They discuss the strategic framing of residual forces in Vietnam and the potential for a historical diplomatic breakthrough with China. Kissinger is tasked with contacting journalist Otis Chandler to relay the President’s appreciation for the quality of the interview questions and to emphasize that the President’s remarks regarding China were aspirational rather than formal policy shifts.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler discussed the positive reception among newspaper editors regarding the President’s recent press conference performance. Ziegler relayed feedback from various attendees, including Robert M. White and Newbold Noyes, noting that the editors viewed the session as a masterful display despite their professional hesitation to applaud. The conversation served to gauge the press corps' reaction to the President's public messaging and to monitor the influence of his recent media appearance.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:54 am and 8:56 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-121 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:54 am and 8:56 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 481-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with his personal physician, Dr. William M. Lukash, in a brief telephone exchange. The conversation focused on the President’s health and medical well-being. Due to the presence of withdrawn material and limited transcript availability, specific details regarding any prescribed medical action items remain restricted.
President Richard Nixon met with his personal physician, Dr. William M. Lukash, for a brief one-minute session in the Oval Office. Due to the withdrawal of the recorded segment as a personal returnable item, the specific substance of their medical consultation remains unavailable for public review. The meeting reflects routine executive health oversight during the Nixon administration.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman debriefed the President's appearance before the American Society of Newspaper Editors, focusing on the effectiveness of his responses regarding Vietnam, J. Edgar Hoover, and foreign relations with the People's Republic of China. The discussion also addressed the technical presentation of the event, including the use of a rostrum and the impact of the President's speaking style. Additionally, the participants coordinated preparations for an upcoming meeting involving Henry Kissinger and John A. Scali to further discuss diplomatic outreach to China.
President Nixon met with George Shultz and Peter Peterson to discuss personnel appointments and pressing foreign economic policy, specifically regarding trade negotiations with Japan and Southeast Asia. The group deliberated on the roles of various cabinet members, including David Kennedy and William Rogers, in coordinating trade strategy and managing the State Department's economic responsibilities. They also explored broader themes of U.S. economic competitiveness, the People's Republic of China initiative, and the necessity of preventing American isolationism in the post-Vietnam War era.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, Peter G. Peterson, George P. Shultz, John B. Connally, Maurice H. Stans, David M. Kennedy, Henry A. Kissinger, Peter M. Flanigan, and U. Alexis Johnson met in the Cabinet Room of the White House at an unknown time between 9:34 am and 10:45 am. The Cabinet Room taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 053-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Secret Service agents in the Oval Office to discuss internal security and logistics. The recording consists primarily of room noise and muffled dialogue, offering no substantive record of specific policy decisions or strategic instructions. Consequently, the interaction remains inconclusive regarding the primary objectives of the security detail's visit.
President Nixon spoke with J. Edgar Hoover to offer personal support following recent public criticism and media speculation regarding the FBI Director's potential resignation. Nixon reassured Hoover that he had publicly defended him during a recent interview with newspaper editors, framing the attacks as malicious and unwarranted. The call concluded with Henry Kissinger joining the conversation to echo his admiration for the President’s stance and provide further support to Hoover.
President Nixon met with Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield and National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger to discuss U.S. foreign policy toward the People's Republic of China (PRC). The President sought to use Mansfield as a private channel to gauge interest in a potential high-level visit to China, aiming to initiate a dialogue while maintaining a step-by-step approach regarding trade and travel restrictions. The participants emphasized the importance of conducting these overtures privately to avoid public rejection and to manage the delicate balance of power between the U.S., China, and the Soviet Union.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, Henry A. Kissinger, and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:52 am and 11:02 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-124 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, Stephen B. Bull, and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:02 am and 11:24 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-125 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and Ronald Ziegler to review the success of his recent televised session with the American Society of Newspaper Editors (ASNE) and coordinate upcoming scheduling matters. They discussed the positive impact of his performance, specifically his handling of sensitive topics like J. Edgar Hoover and foreign policy, while also finalizing plans for visits from agricultural editors, the Jaycees, and various congressional loyalists. Additionally, the President decided to proceed with a meeting with the Building Trades Council executive committee, despite internal warnings regarding the group's opposition to his administration, as part of an effort to demonstrate leadership.
President Nixon consulted with H. R. Haldeman and White House physician Dr. William M. Lukash to address personal health concerns. The discussion focused on the President's physical well-being and necessary medical attention. Due to the sensitive nature of the information, the specific details of the medical assessment remain restricted as a personal returnable item.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, Henry Kissinger, and other staff members to discuss political messaging, media relations, and administrative strategy. A primary focus was neutralizing the political threat posed by Congressman Paul McCloskey, whose public dissent regarding U.S. operations in Southeast Asia and accusations of misconduct in Vietnam were causing friction. The group agreed to handle such dissent by having Congressional allies—rather than the White House—directly refute these claims to avoid elevating the critic's profile. Additionally, the President reviewed his public schedule, emphasizing the need to maintain a composed, energetic appearance to manage perceptions of his stamina and leadership.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, Stephen B. Bull, and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:23 pm and 2:36 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-127 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, Henry A. Kissinger, and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:26 pm and 2:51 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-128 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:36 pm and 2:51 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-154 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, coordinate logistics for a dinner scheduled to take place on the presidential yacht, the Sequoia. They discuss concerns regarding inclement weather and evaluate potential contingency plans, including relocating the event to Camp David or the White House. The conversation focuses on ensuring the evening's arrangements remain feasible given the weather-related uncertainty.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:10 pm and 4:19 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-130 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:10 pm and 4:19 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-131 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed the positive reception among Cabinet members to the gifts recently distributed by the White House. The pair also coordinated the President's upcoming schedule, specifically planning to clear minor administrative tasks by scheduling brief, half-hour meetings with various individuals throughout the week. Haldeman committed to managing these appointments to ensure the schedule proceeded efficiently.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone from 4:21 pm to 4:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-133 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman deliberate on how to effectively counter political criticism from Representative Pete McCloskey regarding administration policies. They reject the idea of using Gerald Ford, instead concluding that Secretary of State William Rogers should defend his ambassador and Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird should directly confront McCloskey. Haldeman is tasked with coordinating with Laird and ensuring Rogers takes a more aggressive public stance against the congressman.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:24 pm and 4:35 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-135 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Patrick J. Buchanan review the President’s recent hour-long interview with newspaper editors, focusing on the prevalence of foreign policy questions over domestic issues. Nixon reflects on his public defense of FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover and discusses the effectiveness of the radio format for his interactions with the press. The pair concludes that the event was a success, with Buchanan noting that the audience’s reactions and the President's deliberate pacing played well for radio listeners.
On April 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 4:41 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-137 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and aide Patrick J. Buchanan discuss the political fallout of the administration's new initiative toward the People's Republic of China. They observe that the move has successfully disrupted the liberal press, drawing attention away from the Vietnam War and causing confusion among political 'doves.' Nixon emphasizes his cautious approach regarding formal UN recognition and his ongoing commitment to maintaining relations with Taiwan.
On April 18, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:15 am and 9:48 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-139 of the White House Tapes.
On April 18, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Nelson C. Pierce, Jr. talked on the telephone from 9:48 am to 9:49 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-140 of the White House Tapes.