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 13 of 32On February 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 1:30 pm and 2:25 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 665-007 of the White House Tapes.
On February 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 4:10 pm and 4:23 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 665-009 of the White House Tapes.
On February 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 4:10 pm and 4:23 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 665-010 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, Charles Colson, and Ron Ziegler met to discuss domestic political strategy, focusing on exploiting the recent peace negotiation failures of Democratic candidate Edmund Muskie. Nixon directed his team to aggressively attack Muskie's public statements regarding the Vietnam War, arguing that they undermined the administration's ongoing diplomatic efforts. Additionally, the group reviewed positive economic indicators—specifically improvements in unemployment rates for married men—and strategized on how to promote these figures to the public to improve the President's image ahead of the 1972 campaign.
President Nixon met with various staff members and advisors to manage his schedule and coordinate messaging regarding his upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China. The participants discussed handling press inquiries, the timing of the announcement of the press list, and how to address potential questions about administration policy. Additionally, Nixon held a telephone conversation with Argentine General Alejandro A. Lanusse to discuss bilateral economic cooperation and regional diplomatic relations.
Stephen B. Bull and an unidentified participant discuss the administration’s messaging strategy regarding negotiations and the potential for a political settlement. The conversation focuses on clarifying the U.S. position on separating political and military issues while critiquing the use of propaganda channels. They emphasize a preference for formal bargaining sessions and ensure consistent messaging across official channels, including past statements from the President and Henry Kissinger.
President Nixon met with his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to review and finalize details regarding upcoming diplomatic engagements. The discussion centered on scheduling a meeting with ambassadors Moulaye el-Hassan Ould Moktar and Witold Trampczynski. The two coordinated administrative arrangements necessary for these official diplomatic proceedings.
Stephen B. Bull met with Secret Service agents in the Oval Office to coordinate logistics and confirm the location of White House valet Manolo Sanchez, who was stationed in the Cabinet Room. The conversation consisted of brief, largely unintelligible logistical exchanges regarding staff placement and scheduling. No major policy decisions were made during this short administrative interaction.
Stephen B. Bull and White House valet Manolo Sanchez met briefly in the Oval Office for an undocumented discussion. Due to the lack of a transcript and the unintelligible nature of the audio, the specific purpose and content of their exchange remain unrecorded. Consequently, no substantive developments or action items can be identified from this interaction.
President Nixon and Rose Mary Woods engaged in a wide-ranging discussion regarding the personal dynamics and professional tensions among his Cabinet members and close associates. The President expressed frustration over the interpersonal conflict between Secretary of State William P. Rogers and National Security Advisor Henry A. Kissinger, as well as his irritation regarding Martha Mitchell. Ultimately, the conversation highlighted Nixon's sense of professional isolation and his struggle to identify close confidants who could provide companionship without bringing political or personal drama into his inner circle.
On February 7, 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 3:16 pm and 3:41 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 319-008 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with key advisors and staff, including H. R. Haldeman and Henry Kissinger, to prepare for his upcoming historic trip to the People's Republic of China and discuss the 1972 campaign strategy. The participants reviewed sensitive internal polling data, evaluated the political risks posed by news stories from columnist Jack Anderson involving F. Donald Nixon, and analyzed public reaction to Vietnam policy and recent busing controversies. Additionally, the President provided guidance on managing press relations for the China trip and discussed the importance of maintaining a unified administration stance on foreign and domestic policy matters.
On February 7, 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 7:15 pm and 9:05 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 320-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building on an unknown date, sometime between 8:52 pm on February 7, 1972 and 10:21 pm on February 8, 1972. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 320-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and various staff members met to discuss administrative scheduling, the quality and strategy of presidential speechwriting, and broader media relations. The conversation focused on the President's upcoming schedule, including interactions with congressional leaders and diplomatic representatives, while expressing significant frustration over the lack of emotional impact in current speech drafts. The participants further analyzed political messaging regarding the Vietnam War, strategizing on how to maintain public support by framing Nixon’s actions as fulfilling his executive responsibilities against political undercutting by critics.
On February 8, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, Stephen B. Bull, and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:20 pm and 5:13 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 667-002 of the White House Tapes.
On February 8, 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 2:51 pm and 2:54 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 320-022 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss political strategy and administrative messaging, specifically regarding Haldeman's recent appearance on the Today show and public reaction to administration stances on Vietnam. The pair reviewed potential inquiries from the press and strategies for responding to critics, while also addressing logistical concerns related to the President's upcoming schedule, including a memorial service for Llewellyn E. Thompson. The conversation concluded with administrative updates involving Rose Mary Woods and the management of office materials.
Stephen B. Bull met with Secret Service agents in the Oval Office to discuss administrative or security-related matters. The brief recording captures logistical coordination regarding the President's location and movements. Due to the limited nature of the audible audio, the discussion focuses primarily on operational details concerning White House security protocols.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and Stephen B. Bull discussed the logistical arrangements for the upcoming memorial service of diplomat Llewellyn E. “Tommy” Thompson, Jr. The participants focused on distinguishing the nature of the event from a traditional funeral and confirmed the specific venue as the Washington National Cathedral. They sought to finalize the timing of the service to ensure proper executive planning.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman met to finalize the President's upcoming radio speech concerning his foreign policy report. They discussed the political strategy of criticizing presidential candidates who were undermining Vietnam peace negotiations, framing these candidates as irresponsible for potentially prolonging the war for electoral gain. Additionally, the President reviewed his public relations approach, deciding to minimize direct press interactions to avoid further controversy while emphasizing his role as the sole negotiator for an honorable peace.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull and unidentified individuals to coordinate logistical details and preparations for an upcoming radio address. The discussion involved clarifying the President's schedule and the role of Henry Kissinger in the broadcast process. The meeting concluded with administrative arrangements regarding the President's personal movements during these preparations.
On February 9, 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 1:05 pm and 2:52 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 321-009 of the White House Tapes.
Stephen B. Bull met with an unidentified individual in the Oval Office for a brief, undocumented interaction. The available audio consists primarily of unintelligible segments, yielding no substantive discussion or identifiable policy developments. The exchange concluded within thirty minutes, leaving the purpose of the meeting unresolved.
President Nixon met with his personal valet Manolo Sanchez and aide Stephen B. Bull to address the misplaced location of important documents. The discussion primarily focused on locating specific papers and coordinating the President's schedule with key staff, including Henry Kissinger and Rose Mary Woods. The meeting concluded with efforts to resolve administrative logistical issues regarding the President’s working materials.
President Nixon met with Ronald Ziegler and Stephen Bull to coordinate strategy for the upcoming presidential trip to the People's Republic of China, specifically focusing on press management. They discussed maintaining an upbeat tone with the press corps to avoid frustration and deliberated on how to handle potential inquiries involving Henry Kissinger and Secretary of State William P. Rogers. The President ultimately decided against allowing Kissinger to conduct Q&A sessions with the press to prevent substantive leaks or conflicts, opting instead for controlled briefings that avoid policy details.
President Nixon, John Ehrlichman, and Arthur Burns met to discuss a wide-ranging agenda including the President's upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China, domestic economic management, and the politics of school busing. Nixon emphasized the necessity of tracking federal budget expenditures more strictly to stimulate the economy, demanding weekly status reports from his Cabinet officers. The participants also explored strategies to address tax withholding concerns and discussed potential ambassadorial appointments. Finally, Nixon and Burns aligned their opposition to forced busing, framing it as detrimental to both neighborhood stability and quality education.
President Nixon met with Rose Mary Woods and Stephen B. Bull to coordinate scheduling for upcoming congressional meetings regarding busing, followed by a brief discussion with Henry Kissinger regarding diplomatic strategy. Kissinger and the President analyzed a recent communication from Le Duc Tho concerning potential peace negotiations and the impact of an upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China. The participants deliberated on whether to accept the invitation for further meetings and established the need for a private consultation to finalize their policy approach before traveling.
On February 14, 1972, Stephen B. Bull, Henry A. Kissinger, and President Richard M. Nixon met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:04 am and 12:49 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 670-010 of the White House Tapes.
On February 14, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:25 pm and 2:48 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 670-014 of the White House Tapes.
On February 14, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 3:04 pm and 3:05 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 670-017 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, Henry Kissinger, and Senator James L. Buckley met to discuss the geopolitical implications of the President's upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China and the broader execution of the Nixon Doctrine in Asia. Senator Buckley provided observations from his recent Far East tour, highlighting the need to reassure U.S. allies—particularly Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan—regarding American security commitments amidst changing strategic balances. The conversation also touched upon military operations in Vietnam, the potential for North Vietnamese offensives, and domestic policy issues, including federal housing and the ongoing conflict in Northern Ireland.
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman to coordinate administration messaging on several contentious issues, particularly busing and the economy. They discussed developing a clear, unambiguous policy statement and potential constitutional amendment regarding school busing to gain political advantage ahead of the Florida primary. Additionally, Nixon directed Ehrlichman to manage and align key officials, including John Connally, George Shultz, and Donald Rumsfeld, to ensure consistent economic policy and address personnel concerns within the Department of Justice.
On February 14, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 4:08 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 670-022 of the White House Tapes.
On February 14, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 6:19 pm and 6:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 671-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his advisor Henry Kissinger and senior staff members H.R. Haldeman and Stephen Bull to finalize strategy and logistical details for the President's upcoming historic trip to the People's Republic of China. The participants discussed the management of the official communique, the role of translators to ensure accurate records of private meetings, and the President's approach to formal toasts and plenary sessions. Additionally, they reviewed domestic political concerns, including public opinion polls and the potential impact of a North Vietnamese military offensive on the trip's reception.
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.
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.
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 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 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 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 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.
Stephen B. Bull met with Secret Service agents in the Oval Office to coordinate logistics and security regarding President Nixon's movements. The discussion centered on confirming the President's current location and his upcoming presence in the Cabinet Room. The brief exchange served as an operational update to ensure proper protection and scheduling protocols were maintained.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 8:33 am and 8:40 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 676-004 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 8:33 am and 8:40 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 676-005 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 9:08 am and 9:10 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 676-010 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 9:08 am and 9:10 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 676-011 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discussed logistics for an upcoming staff trip to Florida, including potential visits to Disney World and the management of staff accommodations. They reviewed political strategy regarding the 1972 campaign, specifically polling data against Republican challengers Paul McCloskey and John Ashbrook, and evaluated the impact of the President's recent trip to the People's Republic of China. The conversation also touched on the administration's stance on Taiwan, the President's upcoming travel to the Soviet Union, and arrangements for sending gifts to family and staff members following the China visit.
On March 1, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, Stephen B. Bull, and Manolo Sanchez met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:22 am and 11:26 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 676-018 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 11:22 am and 11:26 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 676-019 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his senior advisors, including George Shultz and Henry Kissinger, to review the domestic and political fallout following his historic trip to China. The conversation focused on managing the narrative surrounding the visit, specifically highlighting the favorable contrast between the President's statesmanlike conduct and the perceived desperation of Democratic presidential candidates. Beyond the China trip, the group discussed legislative priorities such as the foreign aid bill, the status of Radio Free Europe funding, and upcoming labor negotiations. Nixon expressed a desire to maintain stability in the economy and carefully navigate potential confrontations with organized labor leaders like George Meany.
On March 2, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and members of the Cabinet Committee on Education, including L[ouis] Patrick Gray, III, Elliot L. Richardson, George P. Shultz, Kenneth W. Dam, Paul H. O'Neill, John D. Ehrlichman, Edward L. Morgan, James Clawson, Clark MacGregor, Ronald L. Ziegler, Dana G. Meade, Samuel C. Jackson, William H. Brown, III, Norman B. Houston, Samuel J. Simmons, and Stephen B. Bull, met in the Cabinet Room of the White House from 10:30 am to 11:43 am. The Cabinet Room taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 093-002 of the White House Tapes.
On March 6, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 7:30 am and 8:38 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 677-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and other staff members to discuss political strategy, staffing concerns, and crisis management related to the ITT anti-trust controversy. The group focused on controlling the public relations fallout from the ITT affair, determining the President's upcoming travel and meeting schedule, and assessing the political impact of the China trip and current primary elections. Nixon expressed a desire to distance the White House from the ITT scandal, emphasizing that any necessary clarifications should come from the Justice Department rather than the President or his staff.
On March 6, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House from 12:28 pm to 12:31 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 677-009 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his staff to manage the growing political fallout from the ITT antitrust case, specifically focusing on coordinating a formal statement for John N. Mitchell and managing the public narrative surrounding Dita Beard. Following these internal deliberations, the President met with James C. H. Shen, the Republic of China's ambassador, to address concerns regarding the administration's recent diplomatic outreach to the People's Republic of China. Nixon sought to reassure the Taiwanese government of the U.S. commitment to their security while emphasizing the need for patience and peaceful resolution in the region.
President Nixon met with his senior advisors and Henry Kissinger to navigate several political and diplomatic challenges, including the ongoing ITT controversy, the management of the 1972 presidential campaign, and the implications of his recent trip to the People's Republic of China. The group discussed strategies to handle public and congressional inquiries regarding potential conflicts of interest, with Nixon emphasizing a policy of non-comment on political issues. Additionally, Kissinger briefed the President on North Vietnamese stalling tactics in peace negotiations, which were potentially influenced by Chinese pressure, and reviewed the administration's delicate balancing act regarding Taiwan and Vietnam in foreign policy communications.
On March 7, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House from 10:48 am to 10:49 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 679-005 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, Henry Kissinger, and others to manage the fallout and public relations surrounding the recent trip to the People's Republic of China, specifically addressing Secretary of State William P. Rogers' perceived alienation from the process. The participants discussed strategies to neutralize negative press coverage and mitigate perceived leaks from the State Department, while also deliberating on the upcoming US-Soviet summit. Additionally, the conversation touched on various domestic political matters, including the ITT case, busing policy, 1972 campaign financing, and the political maneuvers of Democratic candidates.
On March 7, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:31 pm and 12:40 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 679-009 of the White House Tapes.
On March 7, 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 12:45 pm and 2:15 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 322-021 of the White House Tapes.
On March 7, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House from 4:43 pm to 4:44 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 679-014 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discussed concerns regarding low morale at the State Department and the perceived marginalization of Secretary of State William P. Rogers following the China summit. They addressed the need to improve Rogers' public image, the upcoming Moscow trip, and the importance of ensuring Rogers plays a visible, substantive role in foreign policy to counter press narratives. The President also discussed the need to manage bureaucratic resistance and maintain control over trip logistics and public announcements to ensure they remain centrally directed from the White House.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and Stephen Bull to discuss the timing of an upcoming press conference in light of damaging media scrutiny surrounding the ITT controversy and the ongoing scandal involving corporate contributions to the San Diego convention. His advisors urged him to postpone the conference to avoid being cornered by reporters on sensitive issues, particularly regarding his personal knowledge of the ITT situation. The group also analyzed the political impact of recent public opinion polls following Nixon's China trip and assessed the effectiveness of Henry Kissinger's media appearances in promoting the administration's agenda.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and Henry Kissinger to discuss the administration's 1972 re-election strategy, focusing on public approval polling data, media outreach, and scheduling decisions regarding busing and social security. Kissinger provided an update on impending agreements with the Soviet Union, including trade and arms limitations, while advising the President on managing the public relations aspect of his upcoming Moscow trip. The participants also reviewed intelligence regarding Soviet and Chinese geopolitical tensions and addressed ongoing concerns related to the ITT anti-trust case.
President Nixon met with John Connally and John Ehrlichman to discuss high-level domestic and international economic policy, as well as political strategy regarding the ITT antitrust case and upcoming social policy decisions. Connally proposed radical ideas to address international monetary instability and domestic crime, including the possibility of a total currency exchange to catch tax evaders and criminals, and the implementation of strict controls on capital outflows. The participants also coordinated a messaging strategy for the ITT controversy, advocating for a more aggressive public posture, and reviewed pending decisions on Social Security and Medicare to balance budgetary concerns against political implications.
President Nixon and Stephen Bull discussed upcoming meetings and personnel matters. They specifically addressed the scheduling of a wage-price meeting involving John Connally and George Shultz, and debated the public nature of Marina Whitman's swearing-in ceremony, with Nixon preferring a private event to avoid appearing to exploit a "women's angle." Additionally, Bull informed Nixon of Otto Passman's urgent request to discuss the Foreign Assistance bill and recommended a brief meeting with Ron Berman, the new chairman of the Humanities Endowment.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to coordinate logistics for a signing ceremony involving a Presidential Proclamation and Senate Joint Resolution 189. The discussion focused on preparations for hosting three wives of prisoners of war and the distribution of gift pens. The primary action item involved finalizing the arrangements to ensure the ceremonial presentation for the guests, including Senator William E. Brock, III, proceeded as planned.
President Nixon met with Senator William Brock and a group of visitors, including relatives of prisoners of war, for a ceremonial photograph and gift presentation session. The primary purpose of the gathering was the formal signing of a proclamation and Senate Joint Resolution 189 regarding American POWs. During the session, the President emphasized his administration’s commitment to securing the return of all captives and acknowledged the courage of the families involved.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to coordinate a signing ceremony scheduled for the Cabinet Room. They reviewed the logistical details concerning the presentation of three specific bills to a limited group of congressional representatives, including George D. Aiken, Wright Patman, and William B. Widnall. The discussion focused on finalizing the list of attendees and ensuring the administrative requirements for the event were met.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the management of sensitive diplomatic backchannels, specifically regarding the People's Republic of China and upcoming U.S.-Soviet summit negotiations. Nixon expresses deep frustration with State Department leaks and bureaucratic resistance, reaffirming his intent to centralize control over foreign policy and minimize the State Department's role in sensitive communication. They also strategize on managing Secretary of State William P. Rogers by keeping him occupied, while preparing personal outreach to international leaders to maintain foreign support for the President's diplomatic initiatives.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to strategize on political damage control regarding the ITT anti-trust case and the Dita Beard memorandum. They discussed mobilizing allies in Congress—specifically naming Senators Cook, Gurney, and Goldwater—to counter the investigation and redirect public attention toward the political motivations of Senator Edward Kennedy and columnist Jack Anderson. The President also finalized plans for upcoming briefings and a potential televised press conference, while reviewing legislative tactics related to school busing and Social Security.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull in the Oval Office to coordinate his daily schedule. The primary objective of the session was to organize the President's upcoming meeting with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. Following this brief administrative check-in, Bull departed the office to facilitate the requested scheduling arrangements.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler met to strategize on managing press coverage and public messaging ahead of upcoming political developments. They focused on drafting a formal statement regarding busing, addressing the political fallout from ITT hearings, and reviewing media reactions to the recent trip to the People's Republic of China. The discussion included the planning of future press conferences and coordinating the administration's stance on pending legislation and diplomatic communications.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and Henry Kissinger met to discuss managing the political fallout from Kissinger's secret diplomacy, his potential appearance before congressional committees, and the administration's stance on campaign finance reporting. The group expressed concern over leaks regarding the administration's foreign policy and the ongoing media attention surrounding potential cabinet resignations and the ITT investigation. Nixon and his advisors also strategized on how to frame campaign contribution disclosures to minimize political attacks from Democrats and the press.
Stephen B. Bull and Alexander P. Butterfield met briefly in the Oval Office to coordinate administrative logistics regarding the President’s schedule and press relations. The participants reflected on the recurring nature of daily crises within the White House, noting the difficulty of managing competing perspectives among staff members. The discussion concluded without specific policy action, serving primarily as a brief exchange on the pressures of managing the President's operational environment.
President Nixon hosted a ceremony in the Oval Office for the swearing-in of Marina von Neumann Whitman as a member of the Council of Economic Advisers. The participants included Whitman’s family, members of the Council, and other White House staff. The conversation featured personal pleasantries, photographs, a discussion about the importance of accessible economic reporting, and lighthearted commentary on White House history and decor.
Stephen B. Bull met with President Nixon in the Oval Office to coordinate the President's upcoming schedule. The primary focus of the discussion was a briefing involving Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. Bull provided the President with documents, including a letter, for his review prior to these engagements.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed the President’s upcoming schedule to manage various executive and legislative priorities. They discussed arrangements for meetings with George H. Mahon, Otto E. Passman, and Henry Kissinger, alongside a request from John D. Ehrlichman and Edward L. Morgan to discuss the administration's stance on busing. The conversation focused on coordination of these engagements to ensure the President remains in control of key policy decisions.
President Nixon met with Representative George H. Mahon, Texas Tech University President Grover E. Murray, and other academic representatives to discuss a formal invitation for the President to address the upcoming American Society for Engineering Education conference in Annapolis. The participants also engaged in informal conversation regarding upcoming visits, the presentation of photographs and personal memorabilia for a presidential display at Odessa College, and general political pleasantries. Nixon agreed to consider the speaking invitation and facilitated a photo opportunity with the visiting delegation.
On March 13, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 3:41 pm and 3:48 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 683-016 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed the presidential schedule, focusing on the timing of upcoming meetings and the coordination of messaging. They specifically discussed the need to sharpen political talking points and confirmed a morning meeting for the following day. The dialogue underscores Nixon’s hands-on management of staff appointments and his desire to refine the administration's public presentation.
President Nixon met with his senior advisors, including H.R. Haldeman and Charles Colson, to coordinate a strategy for neutralizing the ongoing ITT controversy and the accompanying negative press coverage. The discussion focused on discrediting the 'Beard memorandum' through forensic typewriting analysis and managing the potential damage from Senate hearings regarding Attorney General Richard Kleindienst’s confirmation. Nixon emphasized a policy of aggressive pushback against smear campaigns, referencing his past experience with the Alger Hiss case, while also firming up his administration's position to avoid any personnel resignations under political pressure.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman reviewed a draft of an upcoming speech on school busing prepared by Raymond Price. Nixon emphasized the need to modify specific segments, particularly arguing against the characterization of black schools as inherently inferior and questioning the effectiveness of including numerous anecdotal examples. The meeting also included a brief administrative update from Stephen Bull regarding the President's schedule and an upcoming meeting with Henry Kissinger.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull in the Oval Office to organize the President's daily agenda. The primary focus of the discussion was the scheduling of a high-level consultation with National Security Advisor Henry A. Kissinger. This administrative coordination served to finalize the President's priorities and meeting flow for the day.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and others to discuss managing political fallout and public relations strategy, specifically regarding the ITT case and an unflattering Jack Anderson report about Arthur K. Watson. The conversation focused heavily on drafting a television address on school busing, where Nixon emphasized his desire to adopt a firm, hard-line stance against forced busing to appeal to his political base, despite internal opposition from some administration liberals. Nixon also finalized plans for his upcoming diplomatic trips and considered ways to energize his support in key states through targeted domestic appearances.
President Nixon met with Central Treaty Organization (CENTO) Secretary General Nassir Assar and other officials to discuss the strategic importance of the alliance in maintaining regional stability. The President emphasized the ongoing value of CENTO as a counterbalance to Soviet influence and a vital link for non-Communist nations like Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey. Nixon also addressed the complexities of securing U.S. congressional support for military and economic aid, while highlighting his planned visits to Iran and the Soviet Union as symbolic gestures to reaffirm American commitment to its regional allies.