Stephen B. Bull
Stephen B. Bull served in the Nixon administration from its inception, initially working as a Staff Assistant to the President from January 1969 to February 1973. In February 1973, following the departure of Dwight L. Chapin, Bull was promoted to Special Assistant to the President and Appointments Secretary, a role he held until Nixon's resignation in August 1974. During the White House taping period (February 1971 – July 1973), Bull managed the President's daily schedule and appointments, and in March 1973, he assumed Alexander Butterfield's responsibility for overseeing the secret White House taping system.
862 conversations about Stephen B. Bull → (where Bull is the subject, not only a participant)
What Bull talks about on the tapes
Presidential scheduling 1,367White House operations 445White House administration 406Public relations 339White House logistics 331Henry Kissinger 292Vietnam War 250Scheduling 229Logistics 222Foreign Policy 1901972 election 173H. R. Haldeman 170
Conversations (3,174)
— Page 12 of 32President Nixon met with Vice President Spiro Agnew and staff member Stephen Bull to coordinate administrative scheduling and internal communications. The discussion centered on organizing a series of briefings involving John Ehrlichman, John Dean, and others to align key personnel on policy priorities. Nixon directed the participants to facilitate these discussions to ensure that the individuals involved were properly prepared for upcoming consultations.
President Nixon met with George Romney, John Ehrlichman, and John Whitaker to discuss the administration's new "Operation TACLE" initiative, a national growth policy designed to address urban and rural decay through decentralized, competitive consortia. The President and Romney also addressed sensitive political matters, including the upcoming departures of cabinet members Maurice Stans and John Mitchell, as well as the need for coordination between Secretary of State William Rogers and National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger. Nixon emphasized his desire for Romney to remain in the cabinet while encouraging him to maintain a low-profile approach to sensitive housing issues during an election year.
President Nixon met with his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, and aide Stephen B. Bull to address routine administrative tasks and correspondence. The participants reviewed documents requiring the President’s signature, discussed the proper handling of presidential gifts such as custom flag cufflinks, and coordinated upcoming scheduling matters regarding Camp David. Stephen B. Bull joined the session briefly to assist with organizing gift inventories for official visitors.
President Nixon met with his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to manage the scheduling of an upcoming appointment with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. Bull updated the President on current time constraints, specifically noting the necessity to provide Nixon with a fifteen-minute window to review materials before the meeting. The conversation focused on clearing the President’s agenda to ensure he was adequately prepared for the subsequent briefing.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, and Ronald Ziegler discussed various administrative concerns and public relations strategies, including potential leaks involving the Anderson papers and investigations into a cabinet official. The group evaluated Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird's recent successful press briefing on Vietnamization and the positive media reception of Pat Nixon's African trip. Additionally, Nixon and Haldeman strategized on how to manage Henry Kissinger's desire for a high-profile press conference regarding his foreign policy initiatives, ultimately favoring a more controlled, low-key interview with journalist Max Frankel to avoid unwanted media speculation.
President Nixon met with his personal aide, Stephen B. Bull, to review and finalize the President's upcoming daily schedule. The brief discussion focused on coordinating a meeting with H.R. Haldeman immediately preceding a scheduled swearing-in ceremony. Bull also presented a book for the President to sign as part of his administrative duties.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull briefly discussed administrative logistics regarding a school group from Ascension Academy and the handling of presidential gifts. The conversation touched upon managing press interest in these events and navigating political perceptions of the administration. They concluded by briefly addressing the necessity of managing political adversaries to maintain the administration's momentum.
President Nixon hosted a group of students and their teacher in the Oval Office to celebrate his birthday and engage in an informal, educational visit. During the meeting, the attendees recited poems, presented gifts to the President, and participated in a photo session. Nixon discussed his upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China, emphasizing the importance of international relations for the younger generation, and concluded by distributing souvenir pens to the students.
President Nixon held an Oval Office meeting with Stephen B. Bull, Edwin M. Fauver, and several guests to honor Fauver upon his retirement. The group engaged in brief social pleasantries and a photo session while Nixon presented the guests with official White House gifts, including a money clip and cufflinks. The encounter served as a gesture of appreciation for Fauver’s service before he transitioned into retirement.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met briefly to review the President's afternoon schedule, specifically focusing on an upcoming meeting of the Neil H. McElroy Commission. They discussed the expected duration of the session and the potential participation of Vice President Spiro T. Agnew. The brief consultation served to address and manage logistics regarding schedule delays for the remainder of the day.
President Nixon met briefly with White House aide Stephen B. Bull to review his daily schedule, specifically regarding an upcoming appointment with Jon M. Huntsman. Following Bull's departure, the President spoke with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, to coordinate a request for food. These brief interactions reflect the administrative and logistical management of the President's immediate agenda and personal needs.
On January 13, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 2:22 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 647-020 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met briefly with Alexander P. Butterfield, Stephen B. Bull, Ronald L. Ziegler, and Secret Service personnel to offer brief words of encouragement to the group. Following the departure of most participants, Nixon held a short, private discussion with Bull regarding the President's schedule and a request for a specific report. The interaction concluded shortly thereafter with Bull exiting the Oval Office.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and Stephen B. Bull to finalize logistical arrangements for his departure to the Executive Office Building and upcoming travel plans. The discussion focused on coordinating schedules and assessing the viability of a trip to Camp David in light of current weather conditions and transportation requirements. The meeting concluded with the President and Haldeman departing the Oval Office together.
President Nixon met with his senior staff, including H. R. Haldeman, to address ongoing frustrations regarding the mismanagement of his daily schedule, the handling of sensitive staff briefings, and the need for stricter control over administrative operations. He expressed irritation with staff who deliberately misrepresented the time requirements of meetings, specifically citing Henry Kissinger’s performance, and emphasized the necessity of maintaining personal and professional discipline ahead of critical upcoming events like the State of the Union and the China trip. Nixon also clarified his stance on public relations, notably his decision to refuse portrait sittings until after his presidency and his skepticism toward further press commentary regarding foreign policy leaks.
H. R. Haldeman coordinates with Stephen B. Bull regarding logistical plans for the President’s travel to Camp David. The discussion focuses on determining the mode of transportation—helicopter or car—based on weather conditions at the destination in Thurmont, Maryland. Haldeman also confirms that Rose Mary Woods and Marjorie P. Acker are scheduled to accompany the President's party and instructs Bull to relay these arrangements to the relevant staff.
President Nixon met with his staff and Treasury Secretary John Connally to coordinate administrative messaging, discuss upcoming speeches, and refine international economic policy. A significant portion of the discussion focused on political strategy for the 1972 election year, with Connally advising the President to adopt a more aggressive, "fighting" posture rather than strictly maintaining a "professional" presidential image. Additionally, the participants deliberated on restructuring roles within the White House, specifically regarding Pete Peterson and Peter Flanigan, to centralize economic and trade authority under the Treasury Department.
On January 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:25 am and 9:48 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 650-001 of the White House Tapes.
On January 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 11:27 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 650-007 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Ronald Ziegler and Stephen Bull to coordinate the strategy for his upcoming State of the Union address and related public relations tasks. The discussion focused on separating the content of the address into an oral message primarily covering domestic policy, while reserving foreign policy for the upcoming 'State of the World' report. Additionally, Ziegler prepared for a trip to New York to meet with network executives regarding the President’s visit to the People's Republic of China, and the group briefly addressed the West Coast Dock strike and a loan controversy involving F. Donald Nixon and Howard Hughes.
President Nixon and aide Stephen B. Bull coordinate the technical logistics for an upcoming rehearsal of the State of the Union Address. The President instructs Bull to arrange a test of the new podium and lighting setups in the Roosevelt Room to ensure proper television presentation. Additionally, the pair discusses the delivery of materials from Secretary of State William P. Rogers and routine adjustments to the President's daily schedule.
On January 19, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:06 am and 10:13 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 651-005 of the White House Tapes.
On January 19, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:06 am and 10:13 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 651-006 of the White House Tapes.
On January 19, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:21 am and 10:30 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 651-008 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and other staff to review administrative priorities, including the upcoming State of the Union address preparations and the handling of congressional relations. A significant portion of the discussion focused on managing the conflicting foreign policy roles of Henry Kissinger and Secretary of State William Rogers, with Nixon emphasizing the need for better information flow and coordination. Additionally, the President discussed his reliance on Treasury Secretary John Connally for economic policy and political judgment, strategizing on how to integrate Connally’s role without alienating other Cabinet members or White House staff.
On January 20, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 1:29 pm and 1:33 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 652-004 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his senior advisors and staff to debrief on the reception and political impact of his January 1972 State of the Union address. The participants analyzed media commentary and the reactions of congressional Democrats, specifically noting the effectiveness of the President's shift toward a more statesmanlike, moderate tone. Nixon and his team developed a strategy to pressure Congress by highlighting legislative inaction through daily congressional floor reminders, aiming to frame Democrats as obstructionists ahead of the 1972 election. They also discussed future messaging, emphasizing the importance of focusing on tangible economic results over rhetoric.
On January 20, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:20 pm and 2:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 652-006 of the White House Tapes.
On January 20, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:20 pm and 2:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 652-007 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Cardinal Cooke, administration officials, and military leadership to discuss several pressing national and international issues. The conversation covered the morale of U.S. troops in Vietnam, the administration's efforts to provide government aid to private and parochial schools, and upcoming high-level diplomatic trips to China and the Soviet Union. Nixon also coordinated with General Westmoreland regarding the strategic importance of U.S. military security assistance programs, specifically for Indonesia and Latin America, as a means to maintain global influence.
On January 20, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 5:59 pm and 6:00 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 652-014 of the White House Tapes.
On January 20, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 6:08 pm and 6:12 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 652-016 of the White House Tapes.
On January 24, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:58 am and 10:04 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 653-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and various staff members met to coordinate administrative logistics, including the upcoming budget message press strategy and the planning of political events. The discussion touched on the status of the Bicentennial celebration in Philadelphia, the professional transition of Major General James D. Hughes, and the management of White House social functions. The group also finalized communication tactics for the President’s forthcoming Vietnam peace plan speech, emphasizing the need for a unified public relations effort involving key administration officials and congressional allies.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, and Henry Kissinger met to coordinate the media strategy and briefing rollout for the President's upcoming January 25, 1972, Vietnam peace plan speech. The group discussed the timing of notifications for Congressional leaders, Cabinet members, and international allies, while emphasizing the need to maintain operational secrecy regarding the negotiations until the official announcement. Kissinger and the President also addressed potential political fallout and criticisms regarding the administration's use of secret back-channel diplomacy.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull briefly discussed the scheduling of Frank L. Rizzo. The President instructed Bull to bring Rizzo in alone first, before potentially bringing others in, indicating a desire for a private initial discussion with Rizzo. This meeting appears to be a quick logistical arrangement for an upcoming encounter.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed the President’s daily schedule, focusing on coordination for upcoming appointments and document reviews. Key items included arranging a meeting with Frank L. Rizzo, scheduling a photograph session with John D. Ehrlichman, and managing the review of a speech draft prepared by William L. Safire. The discussion concluded with instructions for Bull to manage the logistics of these meetings and finalize the timeline for the President's remaining tasks.
President Nixon met with Philadelphia Mayor Frank L. Rizzo and John D. Ehrlichman to discuss urban policy, federal funding, and the political landscape of Philadelphia heading into the 1972 election. Rizzo expressed his personal support for the President and his desire to align with Republican principles, though he and Nixon strategized on how to manage this shift without alienating Rizzo’s Democratic base. They further coordinated on establishing direct lines of communication between the White House and city officials to bypass local political friction and secure federal aid for Philadelphia through programs like revenue sharing and the LEAA.
On January 24, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:32 pm and 12:33 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 653-014 of the White House Tapes.
On January 24, 1972, 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 3:00 pm and 3:08 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 317-007 of the White House Tapes.
On January 26, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 7:47 am and 7:52 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 656-003 of the White House Tapes.
On January 26, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 7:47 am and 7:52 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 656-004 of the White House Tapes.
In this Oval Office meeting, President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and Henry Kissinger discussed the political strategy surrounding Nixon’s recent Vietnam peace proposal speech, focusing on managing congressional and media reaction to the offer of unilateral troop withdrawal. The group also coordinated a defense against critics, such as Senator George McGovern, by highlighting evidence of North Vietnamese intransigence. Later, the President met with Dutch Prime Minister Barend W. Biesheuvel to review international relations, the strategic landscape in Asia and Europe, and the geopolitical implications of Nixon's upcoming trips to the People's Republic of China and the Soviet Union.
On January 26, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, Ronald W. Reagan, and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:11 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 656-013 of the White House Tapes.
On January 26, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 2:00 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 656-026 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John Connally and key economic advisors Arthur Burns, George Shultz, and Herbert Stein to conduct an extensive review of the U.S. economy, including unemployment data, retail sales, and the federal budget. The participants discussed strategies to accelerate federal spending to stimulate growth, concerns regarding the lack of confidence among international financial institutions, and the delicate nature of ongoing trade negotiations with Europe, Japan, and Canada. Nixon directed his team to prioritize the rapid deployment of authorized funds and ordered a follow-up analysis on identifying the specific demographics of the unemployed.
President Nixon met with Henry Kissinger to discuss the administration's strategic response to North Vietnam's rejection of the latest U.S. peace proposal, agreeing to maintain a tough, offensive public relations stance. Following this, the President held an extensive session with Representative Page Belcher, Secretary of Agriculture Earl Butz, and Clark MacGregor to address agricultural policy, congressional relations, and the political necessity of better maintaining ties with key legislative allies. During the meeting, Nixon authorized a mortgage guarantee for a Tulsa hospital and emphasized his desire for more frequent, direct communication with his congressional supporters to improve morale and political coordination.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and Henry Kissinger to discuss the administration’s strategy for managing negative press coverage regarding Vietnam negotiations and the upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China. Nixon emphasized the need to frame his political opponents, particularly Democrats like Edward Kennedy and Clark Clifford, as favoring "surrender" and communism, while rejecting their criticisms of his ceasefire proposals as factually inaccurate. Additionally, Nixon directed staff to exclude The Washington Post from press pool invitations for the China trip and tasked his team with coordinating a more aggressive, unified media counter-attack against Democratic critics.
President Nixon, Rose Mary Woods, and Stephen B. Bull discussed the reception of a recent dinner event, contrasting Henry Kissinger's successful performance against the perceived hostility of Senator Frank Church. The conversation touched on the President's frustrations with antagonistic press coverage and his refusal to attend future industry dinners. Additionally, they reviewed legal updates regarding a stock case involving Charles Rebozo and coordinated Woods's upcoming attendance at the DeWitt Wallace dinner and her work preparations for the President's forthcoming trip to the People's Republic of China.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull briefly met in the Oval Office to coordinate the President’s schedule, specifically regarding a forthcoming meeting with Secretary of Commerce Maurice H. Stans. The conversation also touched upon broader political themes, with the President reflecting on the perceived moral decay of Washington and his belief in a silent majority that remained aligned with traditional American ideals. No major policy decisions were reached during this brief administrative exchange.
President Nixon met with Alexander P. Butterfield, John B. Connally, and various aides to manage administrative matters, sign official documents, and coordinate the President’s daily schedule. The participants discussed staffing appointments, including the potential liaison role of J. Willard Marriott and the selection of personnel for government positions. Additionally, the group reviewed upcoming meetings involving Charles W. Colson and H.R. Haldeman at Camp David to facilitate future policy planning.
On January 27, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 1:03 pm and 2:10 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 658-013 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and his aide, Stephen B. Bull, met to coordinate and review administrative logistics regarding the President's personal schedule and Henry Kissinger's upcoming agenda. The discussion focused on managing the President's availability for reading time and ensuring alignment between executive calendar requirements and Kissinger's travel or meeting itinerary. No major policy decisions were recorded during this brief administrative session.
President Nixon met with his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to coordinate logistics for upcoming presidential activities, including the scheduling of photography sessions. They discussed the necessity of managing the President's itinerary to prevent exhaustion, referencing past experiences where fatigue impacted staff performance. This discussion served to refine the planning for upcoming travel and high-profile public appearances.
President Nixon met with aides Alexander P. Butterfield and Stephen B. Bull to finalize logistical arrangements, including helicopter transport for a trip to Camp David and upcoming photography opportunities. Following these internal briefings, the President conducted a brief follow-up telephone call with AFL-CIO President George Meany. The discussion primarily focused on administrative scheduling and coordinating personal travel plans prior to the President's upcoming engagements.
President Nixon met with aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate his daily schedule and upcoming meetings. The discussion centered on finalizing a 3:30 p.m. appointment and arranging for Henry Kissinger to brief the President on recent diplomatic talks with Canadian officials. Additionally, the pair touched upon scheduling a small press panel event and addressed the President’s ongoing interest in the defense budget.
President Nixon held a brief meeting with Stephen B. Bull to discuss broad geopolitical themes and the perceived ideological threats posed by the Soviet Union and China. The conversation focused on Nixon's concerns regarding the national character of these nations and the potential dangers of intellectual stagnation or complacency within the American government. No formal policy decisions were reached, as the discussion primarily consisted of the President articulating his critical views on international relations and political leadership.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman met to coordinate White House public relations strategies, focusing on the announcement of Marina von Neumann Whitman to the Council of Economic Advisers and potential attendance at a sickle cell anemia fundraiser. The discussion pivoted to a broader political strategy involving a 'vicious' counterattack against Vietnam critics, framing them as advocates of surrender and supporters of a communist government. Nixon stressed the importance of aggressive, unified messaging and expressed frustration with Henry Kissinger’s reluctance to utilize staff expertise—specifically that of John Scali—in refining public communication regarding peace initiatives.
President Nixon met with Henry Kissinger and West German politician Rainer Barzel to discuss the current state of Vietnam peace negotiations, Soviet foreign policy, and U.S.-European relations. Nixon emphasized a pragmatic, unsentimental approach to diplomacy, warning that the Soviet Union remains focused on fragmenting European unity and neutralizing West Germany despite superficial changes in tone. The discussion also addressed the upcoming presidential trips to China and the Soviet Union, with Nixon reaffirming that the U.S. would not compromise its commitments to NATO or the security of the Federal Republic of Germany.
President Nixon, Henry Kissinger, and Stephen Bull met to coordinate the administration's public relations strategy following Nixon’s January 25 Vietnam peace proposal speech. They discussed favorable French press coverage and planned media engagement, specifically regarding upcoming *Time* and *Life* magazine features and interviews with journalist Jerrold Schecter. Additionally, the group reviewed administrative scheduling, including the signing of executive orders and updates regarding the health of Secretary of the Treasury John Connally.
President Nixon met with administration officials, including Myles J. Ambrose, John N. Mitchell, and Dr. Jerome H. Jaffe, to formalize the launch of a comprehensive federal drug enforcement initiative. The discussion focused on a three-pronged strategy involving international supply control, treatment and prevention programs, and intensified law enforcement efforts against drug traffickers. Nixon formally appointed Ambrose to lead these consolidated enforcement activities, emphasizing the administration's commitment to aggressively pursuing drug pushers as a top priority.
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman and various guests to preside over the presentation of the Encyclopedia Judaica, which included discussions on U.S.-Israeli relations and the significance of Jewish heritage. Following the ceremony, Nixon and Ehrlichman transitioned into a private strategy session regarding domestic policy, specifically addressing the administration's stance on busing, the potential for a constitutional amendment, and the political implications of housing integration. They also evaluated ongoing projects, including the Bicentennial park proposal and the political viability of implementing a Value Added Tax (VAT) in an election year.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to coordinate logistics for a White House dinner honoring DeWitt and Lila Acheson Wallace, focusing on protocol, lighting, and the President's toast. The discussion also addressed the administration's stance on magazine postal subsidies, specifically ensuring industry support for the legislative package. Furthermore, Nixon and his staff decided to postpone efforts to revive the Supersonic Transport (SST) project until after the upcoming election, prioritizing it instead as a key initiative for his potential second term.
President Nixon met with Rose Mary Woods and Stephen B. Bull to finalize the seating arrangements and logistics for a White House dinner honoring DeWitt and Lila Wallace. The discussion focused on balancing the guest list to ensure a lively atmosphere while navigating the last-minute attendance changes caused by a flu outbreak. Additionally, the President reviewed various administrative matters, including incoming correspondence, potential fundraising requests, and his own upcoming travel and scheduling preferences.
President Nixon met briefly with Stephen B. Bull in the Oval Office. The primary topic of discussion was Bull's apology to the President for an unspecified reason. Nixon accepted the apology, indicating it was not important, and Bull then departed.
On January 28, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, Stephen B. Bull, and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:51 pm and 2:59 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 659-021 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to review and finalize the President’s upcoming daily schedule. The primary focus of the discussion was coordinating logistics for a scheduled meeting with John N. Mitchell. Bull departed the Oval Office shortly thereafter, having completed the administrative briefing.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate logistical arrangements for an upcoming photo feature in Life magazine. They discussed the inclusion of Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler and National Security Advisor Henry A. Kissinger in the session. The brief meeting focused on integrating these photography sessions into the President's existing schedule.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to review photographs intended for an upcoming Life magazine feature. The discussion centered on images of Henry Kissinger and those taken by White House photographer Oliver Atkins. The President evaluated these visual materials to finalize selections for the publication.
On January 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:24 am and 8:35 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 660-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon held a wide-ranging meeting with H.R. Haldeman and several other key staff members to discuss political strategy, personnel matters, and public relations. Key topics included the appointment of Marina von Neumann Whitman to the Council of Economic Advisors, the political fallout and press handling of a protest at a recent White House dinner, and the administration’s strategy regarding potential 1972 Democratic presidential challengers. Additionally, Nixon and his staff reviewed polling data and preparations for his upcoming trip to the People’s Republic of China, emphasizing the positive reception of his recent Vietnam peace proposals.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss various political and administrative issues, including managing a potential media scandal involving Jack Anderson, coordinating a rest period for John Connally at Camp David, and assessing the 1972 campaign strategy. They addressed the public relations fallout from a recent protest at a Reader's Digest dinner and analyzed demographic shifts in voter support. Additionally, the President and his staff coordinated the messaging for an upcoming North Vietnamese press conference and reviewed the ongoing secret peace negotiations handled by Henry Kissinger.
On January 31, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:59 am and 11:03 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 660-019 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met with NATO Secretary General Joseph Luns to discuss alliance strategy, European security, and U.S. outreach to China and the Soviet Union. The President emphasized that his diplomatic engagements with Communist powers were grounded in pragmatic, reality-based security concerns rather than sentimental détente, and he sought to reassure Luns that NATO allies would be consulted. They also addressed specific regional issues, including the British-Malta dispute and the necessity of West German steadfastness within the alliance to avoid 'Finlandization.'
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to coordinate the administration's stance on welfare reform, including strategies to manage Senator Abraham Ribicoff's involvement. The group discussed managing negative media inquiries regarding F. Donald Nixon, specifically focusing on his ties to the Howard Hughes loan scandal and press relations for the upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China. Additionally, Nixon reviewed his personal financial and property arrangements, including the potential sale of his papers to a foundation, and finalized preparations for gift-giving and press coverage for the China summit.
On January 31, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 4:00 pm and 4:01 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 661-005 of the White House Tapes.
On January 31, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 4:03 pm and 4:04 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 661-008 of the White House Tapes.
On January 31, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 5:05 pm and 5:13 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 661-010 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Alexander P. Butterfield to review the presidential schedule, specifically regarding an upcoming meeting with Washington Governor Daniel J. Evans. The discussion also touched upon an undisclosed resignation letter and a brief administrative matter involving a telephone call between Rose Mary Woods and First Lady Pat Nixon, facilitated by Stephen B. Bull. The session concluded with brief logistical updates and coordination between the President and his staff.
President Nixon met with evangelist Billy Graham and H.R. Haldeman in the Oval Office to discuss the upcoming election year, media coverage, and Graham's ministry. Key topics included Nixon's speaking engagements and public image, Graham's health, strategies for reaching young voters, and concerns about perceived Jewish dominance in the media. Nixon also expressed his views on foreign policy and the nation's moral direction, while Graham offered advice on campaign tactics and the importance of maintaining presidential dignity.
Henry Kissinger briefed President Nixon on a recent private meeting he held at the home of journalist James "Scotty" Reston, which was attended by Senator J. William Fulbright and John W. Gardner. Kissinger described the encounter as a sign of weakness and confusion within the political establishment, noting that the participants expressed a desire to moderate their public criticism of the President in light of the upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China. Nixon encouraged Kissinger to continue keeping these figures "loose" while expressing frustration over the establishment's skepticism regarding his preparations for the China summit. The discussion concluded with administrative updates from Stephen Bull regarding the President's schedule and the delivery of gifts to Apollo XV astronauts.
President Nixon met with Apollo 15 astronauts David Scott, James Irwin, and Alfred Worden, along with their spouses and staff, to discuss the astronauts' recent goodwill mission to Poland and Yugoslavia. The group exchanged impressions regarding the reception they received in Eastern Europe and discussed the diplomatic benefits of their travel. Additionally, the President touched upon the progress of the space shuttle program and finalized the meeting by presenting gifts to the astronauts and their families.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to coordinate upcoming schedule items, including photo opportunities and ceremonies for the University of Nebraska football team, the Boy Scouts, and administrative certificates. The discussion focused on logistics and timing for these engagements to ensure efficient management of the President's time. Bull advised on managing delays and organizing the waiting room to streamline the President's interactions with visitors.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to coordinate a photograph session with the University of Nebraska football team. They specifically discussed the team's quarterback, Jerry Tagge, noting his recent selection by the Green Bay Packers. The brief meeting served to confirm scheduling logistics and relevant biographical details for the upcoming event.
President Nixon met with University of Nebraska officials, coaching staff, and members of their football team, along with several Nebraska political representatives, to honor the team's athletic achievements. During the visit, the President presented various gifts and discussed the broader value of athletics in fostering a competitive spirit, building character, and providing positive inspiration for the nation's youth. The conversation also touched upon the team's past performances, the professional future of individual players, and the President's personal interest in football.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office to discuss the logistics and inventory of presidential fleet vehicles. The conversation focused on establishing an accurate count of the total number of vehicles available for the President's use. Nixon confirmed the figures provided by Bull as they reviewed the operational status of the fleet.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to coordinate a strategy for challenging the perceived bias of major television networks, focusing specifically on the distribution and promotion of Edith Efron's book, *How CBS Tried to Kill a Book*. The discussion involved plans to utilize Patrick Buchanan and various conservative organizations to monitor media coverage and distribute Efron’s forthcoming testimony to key influencers. During the meeting, Stephen B. Bull joined to briefly discuss the President's schedule, including a potential appointment related to the Atomic Energy Commission.
President Nixon met with California Governor Ronald Reagan and various administration officials to discuss domestic policy challenges, specifically addressing stalled welfare reform legislation and the ongoing West Coast dock strike. The group explored the economic implications of federal spending and potential strategies to bypass congressional inaction regarding labor disputes, with Reagan sharing his past experience managing strike negotiations. Additionally, the participants discussed the political and ethical complexities surrounding abortion access through Medicaid and the legal status of the unborn.
On February 1, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 5:33 pm and 5:35 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 663-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull discussed the tactical handling of Secretary of State William Rogers regarding his involvement in the funeral arrangements for fallen New York City police officers Gregory P. Foster and Rocco Laurie. Nixon sought to manage Rogers’ public position to prevent negative press coverage and potential internal dissent from within the State Department. The President concluded that while Rogers' attendance would be strategically beneficial, he preferred not to force the issue if Rogers remained reluctant.
President Nixon met with his personal aide, Stephen B. Bull, to review the President’s daily schedule, including appointments with John D. Ehrlichman, former Speaker John W. McCormack, and entertainer Pearl M. Bailey regarding her Heart of the Year Award. During the discussion, Nixon pivoted to a brief foreign policy critique concerning recent geopolitical tensions involving India, Russia, and the stability of the West Pacific. He requested a formal briefing document summarizing past diplomatic overtures, foreign responses, and the regional anxieties stemming from these international interactions.
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman and various staff members to address upcoming legislative strategies and high-level diplomatic positioning. The primary focus involved preparing for Congressional testimony regarding U.S. policy toward India and Pakistan, with the President emphasizing the need to project a firm, principled stance on the recent conflict while maintaining an "arms-length" relationship. The President provided guidance on how to counter political criticism from Congressional opponents, asserting that the administration acted in the interest of global peace and U.S. policy requirements.
President Nixon met with aides Stephen B. Bull and Alexander P. Butterfield to coordinate logistical details regarding his daily schedule and upcoming ceremonial signings. The discussion focused on the arrangements for a meeting with former Speaker of the House John W. McCormack, specifically addressing the appropriate location for the event. The brief session concluded with the participants confirming administrative preparations for the President's immediate agenda.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull discussed the personal health history and recent activities of an unnamed individual, specifically regarding a past heart attack suffered while hunting. The conversation touches upon the physical limitations resulting from this medical event and implications for future scheduling. The exchange serves as a brief check-in regarding the logistics of an upcoming engagement involving the President’s spouse.
President Nixon met with former Speaker of the House John W. McCormack to discuss foreign policy, national defense, and the President's upcoming diplomatic trips to the PRC and the USSR. They reviewed the status of the Vietnam War, including potential peace proposals and ceasefire negotiations, while also evaluating the necessity of a robust U.S. defense budget. Additionally, the pair touched upon broader geopolitical themes, including U.S. relations with India and the role of women in politics.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and Stephen Bull to discuss several key issues. They reviewed the administration's response to Senator Muskie's recent speech on Vietnam and the press conference strategy. The conversation also touched upon welfare reform, with Nixon expressing a desire for pragmatic solutions and Congressional action, and the challenges and effectiveness of various presidential commissions. Additionally, they briefly discussed the funeral of two slain police officers and the President's schedule, including a potential trip to Camp David.
On February 2, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull talked on the telephone from 3:30 pm to 3:31 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-034 of the White House Tapes.
On February 2, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 3:30 pm to 3:31 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 318-035 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Henry Kissinger, H. R. Haldeman, William Rogers, and Kenneth Keating to coordinate Administration responses to political challenges, specifically regarding Senator Edmund Muskie’s recent speeches and media criticism. The group discussed strategies to manage the fallout from the President's upcoming trip to China, focusing on framing the diplomatic effort as a necessary opening rather than a final conclusion. Additionally, they addressed the strained relationship between Treasury Secretary John Connally and David Kennedy, and prepared Ambassador Keating for upcoming Senate Foreign Relations Committee testimony regarding U.S. policy toward India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
On February 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 10:53 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 665-002 of the White House Tapes.