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 5 of 32On June 4, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:14 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 512-014 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to streamline the structure and membership of his economic policy group to prioritize strategic decision-making over administrative bureaucracy. The President expressed a desire to limit participants to a core group—including John Connally, John Ehrlichman, and Peter Peterson—to foster effective policy planning and avoid the stagnation caused by larger, disparate committees. The discussion centered on balancing economic management, such as the jobs bill, with the broader necessity of instilling public confidence and optimism in the administration's leadership.
President Nixon met with New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller to discuss a variety of domestic policy issues, most notably the implementation of federal revenue sharing and strategies to address New York's fiscal challenges. They explored the potential for a Hoover-type commission to examine municipal corruption and inefficiency, and coordinated on the President's upcoming travel plans, including a trip to Rochester. Additionally, the conversation touched upon managing political optics regarding diplomatic visits by foreign leaders and the legislative hurdles for revenue-sharing bills in Congress.
President Nixon met with Alexander P. Butterfield to coordinate administrative scheduling and later consulted with John D. Ehrlichman regarding the appointment of a new General Counsel for the Department of Labor. Nixon expressed a desire to appoint someone aligned with the administration to gain political credit with business leaders, while also vetting the candidate to avoid the confirmation difficulties associated with G. Harrold Carswell. The discussion shifted to labor relations, with Nixon expressing frustration toward business executives who criticized his stance on unions despite his efforts to manage congressional action like the Davis-Bacon Act.
On June 7, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:34 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 512-030 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Ambassador William D. Brewer and W. Marshall Wright in the Oval Office to discuss diplomatic matters and exchange gifts intended for the Prime Minister of Mauritius. The conversation covered Mauritius's economic reliance on sugar, its tourism potential, and the logistical challenges facing the island nation. Additionally, the President and Brewer shared personal anecdotes regarding their respective backgrounds in the Foreign Service and education.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull coordinated adjustments to the afternoon schedule, specifically regarding upcoming meetings with Henry Kissinger, Peter G. Peterson, and Caspar W. Weinberger. Nixon directed Bull to inform Kissinger and Peterson that their meeting would be delayed by approximately five to ten minutes to accommodate other calls. Bull confirmed he would handle these scheduling logistics and ensure the attendees were prepared for the revised timing.
On June 7, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 2:49 pm to 2:50 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 255-017 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with Alexander P. Butterfield and Stephen B. Bull regarding the logistics of an upcoming appearance before a group of visitors. The discussion focused on coordinating the President's brief two-minute remarks with the scheduled tour of the White House. Rose Mary Woods also joined the brief meeting, which centered on ensuring the group could efficiently transition from the President's address to their tour.
On June 7, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, Alexander P. Butterfield, and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House from 5:04 pm to 5:07 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 513-006 of the White House Tapes.
On June 8, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House from 7:53 am to 7:55 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 514-003 of the White House Tapes.
On June 8, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 8:03 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 514-020 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his senior staff and Caspar Weinberger to develop a political and economic strategy centered on job creation and tax policy. The discussion focused on leveraging construction projects to stimulate the economy, addressing the regressive nature of property taxes, and crafting a messaging strategy that emphasizes the President's leadership and strength. Nixon directed his team to prioritize projects that provide immediate employment and instructed them to present these efforts as a decisive counter-argument to the spending agendas proposed by Congress.
President Nixon met with key advisors and economist Milton Friedman to discuss administrative scheduling, the current economic climate, and potential policy adjustments ahead of the 1972 election. A primary focus was the ongoing struggle to balance inflation and unemployment, with Friedman cautioning against reactive policy shifts and emphasizing the need for stability in the money supply. Nixon expressed concern over the volatility of Federal Reserve Chairman Arthur Burns and sought advice on managing economic expectations while avoiding the political pitfalls of wage and price controls.
President Nixon met with Secretary of Transportation John A. Volpe and aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate logistics for an upcoming event involving Congressman Peter W. Rodino, Jr. The discussion centered on the personal nature of the meeting and the potential attendance of a political candidate named Tomas. The participants briefly reviewed scheduling details before concluding the encounter to prepare for the subsequent public interaction.
On June 8, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:18 pm and 12:21 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 514-012 of the White House Tapes.
On June 8, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull talked on the telephone from 1:45 pm to 1:46 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 004-072 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, Rose Mary Woods, and Stephen B. Bull met to coordinate the logistics and guest list for upcoming social engagements, specifically involving Jack and Helene Drown. The discussion focused on managing Helene Drown’s potential attendance at First Lady Pat Nixon’s scheduled trip to Rochester, New York, due to concerns regarding social etiquette and media exposure. Rose Mary Woods took action items to coordinate these schedules and handle communications with Bebe Rebozo to ensure the President maintained necessary time for rest.
On June 8, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House from 4:34 pm to 4:35 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 514-016 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, Charles Colson, and H. R. Haldeman discuss the President’s recent meeting with NBC executives, focusing on the media's perceived liberal bias and the effectiveness of Nixon’s confrontational yet calm demeanor. The participants analyze the executives' reactions to Nixon's challenges regarding press coverage and his refusal to be intimidated by journalistic hostility. Additionally, they discuss media strategy, including the potential for using economic data to counter negative reporting, the management of public broadcasting, and efforts to secure equal time for administration viewpoints.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman debriefed on a recent meeting with NBC executives, focusing on Nixon's efforts to confront the network's perceived bias and unfair coverage of his administration. Nixon emphasized his strategy of maintaining a cold, firm demeanor during the encounter to signal his effectiveness as an adversary, while refusing to apologize for the critical rhetoric of Vice President Agnew. The discussion also covered the administration's stance on equal-time requirements for campaign coverage and the president's decision to control the scheduling of his own press conferences rather than bowing to network convenience. Following this, Stephen B. Bull briefed the president on a logistical issue regarding the attendance of members of Congress for an upcoming meeting with Peter G. Peterson.
President Nixon met with staff and diplomats in two distinct sessions to coordinate logistics for Tricia Nixon’s upcoming wedding and to discuss foreign policy strategy regarding the Soviet Union and China. During the first segment, Nixon and his aides finalized guest lists, entertainment plans, and security arrangements for wedding-related social events, specifically managing the inclusion of personal friends and family members. In the second portion, the President pivoted to a strategic review of trade and foreign policy with Jacob Beam and Helmut Sonnenfeldt, focusing on the potential for utilizing trade incentives, such as grain deals and commercial credits, to improve U.S. relations with Communist powers and expand American diplomatic leverage. Nixon emphasized a desire for a more assertive, hard-line administrative image while exploring the practical utility of trade restrictions as a tool for Cold War maneuvering.
President Nixon met with Peter M. Flanigan to prepare for an upcoming meeting with a group of railroad executives. The discussion focused on strategies for addressing industry concerns regarding AMTRAK financing, labor costs, and union productivity constraints. Nixon and Flanigan also evaluated the competitive landscape of the travel industry, comparing the quality and service models of railroads and airlines. Flanigan advised the President to remain non-committal on specific legislative financing proposals to avoid complications with upcoming labor negotiations.
President Nixon met with Everett D. Collier, Philip G. Warner, and Herbert G. Klein to discuss Texas politics, urban development, and the future of leadership in the state. The discussion touched on the upcoming gubernatorial race, the political influence of John Connally, and the management of urban challenges such as mass transit, pollution, and racial integration in Houston. Nixon emphasized the need for firm leadership and the importance of maintaining the 'can-do' spirit of Texas to prevent the stagnation seen in older American cities.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to review the President's upcoming schedule, focusing on political strategy and the management of his public appearances. They discussed vetting invitations for events, such as the Chowder and Marching Society dinner and meetings with congressional supporters, to ensure maximum political utility while maintaining the President's time. Additionally, Nixon reviewed Patrick Buchanan's political memoranda regarding the 1972 election, agreeing on a strategy to push Edward M. Kennedy to the political left to benefit Republican electoral prospects. The President emphasized a desire for more ruthless selectivity in his engagements, preferring events that offer clear political or media advantages.
President Nixon met with staff members, including H. R. Haldeman and Charles Colson, to discuss his upcoming schedule, press relations, and political strategy against Democratic opponents. The group focused on capitalizing on the rift between Ted Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey, including Nixon’s brief congratulatory phone call to Humphrey for publicly defending the President's Vietnam policy. Additionally, Nixon and Colson strategized on weakening Kennedy's presidential prospects by initiating a book project regarding the Chappaquiddick incident and highlighting the financial struggles of Edmund Muskie's campaign.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss the potential recruitment of a new writer who is described as a "zealot" with strong, articulate views that align with the President's perspective. The conversation touches upon the effectiveness of current political messaging, the need for sharper, more focused public communication, and the strategic impact of high-profile upcoming events, specifically referencing the potential for a trip to China. They also coordinate logistics for an upcoming social event, including the President's attire and guest arrangements.
On June 11, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:37 am and 9:39 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 517-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and Henry Kissinger to discuss the administration's political strategy regarding the Vietnam War, press relations, and international economic policy. The group addressed criticism from figures like Clark Clifford and Senator Edward Kennedy, while emphasizing the importance of projecting positive movement in peace negotiations and foreign initiatives. Additionally, Nixon directed his staff to adopt a tougher stance on international loan policies and foreign leaders, specifically targeting Salvador Allende in Chile and bureaucratic resistance within the State Department.
President Nixon met with Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare Elliot Richardson and other officials to discuss the administration's health policy agenda, specifically focusing on Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and the rising national drug crisis. The President emphasized the need to repair the public image of the medical profession by encouraging doctors to take a proactive, non-moralizing role in public education regarding the dangers of drug abuse. Nixon and his advisors agreed to leverage the influence of the American Medical Association (AMA) to mobilize physicians as credible community voices to combat drug dependency among youth.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to finalize logistical details regarding Tricia Nixon’s upcoming wedding rehearsal and associated television coverage. They coordinated the timing of briefings with staff members Ronald L. Ziegler, William H. Carruthers, and Mark I. Goode to ensure the event schedule remained manageable. Alexander P. Butterfield briefly joined the President toward the end of the session to discuss preparations for a forthcoming meeting.
President Nixon met with his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to coordinate logistical details regarding an upcoming appointment with Baron Guido Zerilli-Marimo. The discussion focused on scheduling the meeting and arranging for an appropriate gift for the visitor. This brief exchange served to finalize the protocol and administrative preparations for the President’s diplomatic encounter.
On June 11, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House from 12:39 pm to 12:40 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 517-011 of the White House Tapes.
On June 11, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:59 pm and 1:02 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 517-013 of the White House Tapes.
On June 11, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 1:36 pm and 1:43 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 517-017 of the White House Tapes.
On June 11, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:38 pm and 2:40 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 517-021 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman and Elliot Richardson to navigate the political strategy surrounding revenue sharing and welfare reform initiatives. The discussion focused on securing legislative support by managing relationships with key figures like Wilbur Mills and leveraging administration victories to appeal to the President's constituency. Additionally, they evaluated personnel shifts, specifically considering the potential reassignment of Robert Finch and the effectiveness of various cabinet members in implementing the administration's policy agenda.
President Nixon consulted with his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to coordinate logistics for an upcoming wedding reception, specifically regarding the selection and quantity of presidential gift items for guests. Bull confirmed the inventory of compacts and key chains, verifying their quality and appropriate value for the event. The two also finalized the President's departure time and location, ensuring Colonel Vernon C. Coffey, Jr. was briefed on the arrangements.
On June 14, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:04 am and 10:06 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 519-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Peter G. Peterson, Harry S. Dent, and Peter M. Flanigan to formulate a strategy for ongoing international textile trade negotiations. The participants discussed securing favorable import terms with Taiwan and Japan while navigating the political interference of Representative Wilbur D. Mills, who was reportedly pushing for a quota bill to bolster his own political ambitions. The group decided to pursue a conditional agreement that secures the best possible terms for the industry, followed by a coordinated effort to pressure domestic industry leaders into public and legislative support to avoid a politically damaging confrontation with Congress.
President Nixon held an Oval Office meeting with Jayne B. Spain, Robert E. Hampton, and several guests to preside over the swearing-in ceremony for Spain as a Civil Service Commissioner. Following the ceremony, the President emphasized the importance of eliminating sex discrimination in federal hiring. He directed the commission to ensure fairness and actively identify talented women for advancement into senior government positions.
On June 14, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:26 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 519-006 of the White House Tapes.
On June 14, 1971, 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 3:01 pm and 3:02 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 519-010 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his key economic advisors—John Connally, George Shultz, Paul McCracken, and Arthur Burns—to assess the sluggish state of the economy and deliberate on potential government interventions. The discussion centered on rising inflation, the psychological impact of economic news, high interest rates, and the growing public frustration regarding wage costs. The group debated the timing and feasibility of implementing wage and price controls, ultimately reaching a consensus to maintain a defensive posture while preparing to apply pressure on the steel industry and other key sectors to curb inflationary expectations.
President Nixon met with staff members Stephen Bull, Alexander Butterfield, and Secretary of Labor James Hodgson to discuss the television coverage of a recent wedding. The participants reviewed the broadcast, with the President expressing particular satisfaction regarding the production quality and timing of the footage. Nixon concluded the brief meeting by requesting that the segment be replayed for an additional thirty minutes.
In this meeting, President Nixon and Rose Mary Woods discuss personal and administrative matters, including the recent wedding of Tricia Nixon Cox and Edward R. F. Cox. The President and Woods exchange views on positive media coverage, specifically a recent Life magazine cover, while criticizing negative press commentary from reporters. Additionally, the President discusses upcoming scheduling logistics and expresses a desire to minimize future social contact with individuals he views as difficult, such as the Drown family.
On June 14, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 7:07 pm and 11:59 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 519-018 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Alexander P. Butterfield and Stephen B. Bull in the Oval Office to coordinate his daily schedule. The primary focus of the discussion involved administrative planning for upcoming meetings with Kenneth B. Keating and Arthur K. Watson. The brief interaction served as a routine logistical briefing to manage the President’s agenda for the day.
On June 15, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:48 am and 9:56 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 520-012 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and various officials to discuss urgent administration challenges, specifically the unauthorized publication of the Pentagon Papers and strategies to combat press leaks and political criticism. The conversation transitioned into a broader policy meeting with representatives from the National Association of Real Estate Boards regarding the President's revenue sharing initiatives, housing market stabilization, and rising construction costs. Nixon emphasized the importance of aligning administration rhetoric on taxes and housing to bolster support among key stakeholders.
On June 15, 1971, 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 11:02 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 520-005 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and West German Chancellor Willy Brandt met in the Oval Office to coordinate their respective diplomatic strategies regarding the Soviet Union, Berlin, and European security. The two leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining a unified stance on Berlin negotiations and the potential ratification of treaties, while navigating the delicate balance of maintaining U.S. troop presence and European defense burden-sharing. They also discussed broader geopolitical challenges, including the rise of Japan, relations with the People’s Republic of China, and the ongoing crisis between India and Pakistan, reaffirming their commitment to close cooperation and open channels of communication.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler met to prepare for an upcoming press conference by reviewing potential inquiries regarding the President's meeting with West German Chancellor Willy Brandt. The discussion centered on foreign policy and economic issues, including Berlin negotiations, Mutual and Balanced Force Reduction (MBFR), NATO relations, and international monetary policy. Nixon commended Secretary of State William P. Rogers for his briefing work, and Ziegler concluded the session to prepare for his own press briefing.
On June 15, 1971, Stephen B. Bull and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 1:15 pm and 2:15 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 521-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss high-level foreign policy developments, including ongoing diplomatic channels with the Soviet Union and the PRC, while expressing frustration over the persistent challenges posed by the press and political establishment. The conversation focused heavily on the recent publication of the Pentagon Papers, which both men viewed as a direct attack on the integrity of the presidency rather than just the previous administration. In response to these perceived threats, Nixon and Kissinger strategized on how to manage media access and tighten administrative controls to prevent further unauthorized leaks.
President Nixon met with John Mitchell, John Ehrlichman, and Ronald Ziegler to discuss the administration's aggressive response to the New York Times' publication of the Pentagon Papers. Nixon characterized the leak as an attack on the presidency and a national security crisis, demanding that his staff sever all contact with the Times and pursue legal action against the newspaper and individuals like Daniel Ellsberg. The participants strategized on framing the documents as the "Kennedy-Johnson Papers" to shift blame to previous administrations while emphasizing the necessity of protecting classified information.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate upcoming appointments with Kenneth B. Keating and Henry A. Kissinger. Following Bull's departure, Manolo Sanchez joined the President to discuss the ongoing fallout from the publication of the Pentagon Papers in The New York Times. The brief exchange focused on administrative scheduling and the immediate impact of the security leak.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and other staff members to discuss administration strategy regarding the publication of the Pentagon Papers and internal scheduling matters. The participants focused on framing the controversy as a "family quarrel" between the Kennedy-Johnson administrations and emphasizing the threat to national security, while coordinating a legal and public relations response. They also evaluated upcoming press conference strategy, including the potential for audience overexposure and the merits of adjusting prime-time scheduling.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and others to strategize on managing various administration challenges, specifically the public relations fallout from the Pentagon Papers leak and the need to improve the effectiveness of White House social functions. The President directed staff to create a structured plan for Cabinet members and senior officials to engage more effectively with guests at White House dinners to maximize political and personal influence. Regarding the Pentagon Papers, the group discussed separating the legal issue of government secrecy from the political debate over the origins of the Vietnam War, and they considered shifting the public focus toward the perceived failures of previous Democratic administrations. Additionally, they reviewed domestic policy updates, including farm policy publicity and potential labor-related nominations.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman, Henry Kissinger, and other key advisors to formulate the administration's strategic response to the unauthorized publication of the Pentagon Papers. The President emphasized a firm, unified messaging approach that distinguishes between the protection of classified national security information and the political culpability of the previous administrations, while also directing staff to maintain strict discipline regarding press access. Furthermore, the meeting addressed pressing foreign and domestic policy matters, including the need for a bipartisan response to the drug crisis, the management of relations with West German Chancellor Willy Brandt, and the long-term support strategy for South Vietnam.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and Stephen B. Bull coordinated a surprise appearance by the President to address a group of women touring the White House. The participants discussed the logistics of the 'drop-by' and the content of the remarks Nixon would provide to the group. The meeting concluded with preparations to integrate the unscheduled greeting into the President's ongoing public relations agenda.
President Nixon met with Indian Foreign Minister Swaran Singh, Ambassador Lakshmi Kant Jha, Ambassador Kenneth B. Keating, and Joseph J. Sisco to discuss the escalating refugee crisis in East Pakistan and the broader India-Pakistan conflict. While acknowledging the humanitarian urgency and pledging $70 million in U.S. financial aid, Nixon emphasized the necessity of "quiet diplomacy" over public pressure to influence Pakistani leadership toward a political solution. The discussion underscored Nixon's efforts to prevent an armed conflict and his frustration with other nations that offered rhetorical support without matching financial contributions.
On June 16, 1971, 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 3:43 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 523-003 of the White House Tapes.
In this meeting, President Nixon met with administration officials and businessman Charles Bluhdorn to discuss foreign policy concerns, specifically the implications of the Sugar Act and the treatment of U.S.-friendly nations in Latin America. Bluhdorn, representing Gulf and Western, lobbied the President to protect the Dominican Republic's sugar quotas, arguing that the administration should favor loyal allies over countries that engage in the expropriation of American assets. Nixon expressed strong support for rewarding friendly nations, criticizing the State Department's perceived leniency toward countries like Peru, Bolivia, and Chile, and directed his staff to pursue a more assertive policy in Congress regarding trade quotas and investment protections.
On June 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, Stephen B. Bull, and Alexander P. Butterfield met in the Oval Office of the White House from 4:29 pm to 4:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 523-008 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John M. O'Neill and other representatives of Vietnam Veterans for a Just Peace to discuss the political challenges of the Vietnam War and efforts to counter anti-war sentiment led by figures like John Kerry. Nixon expressed his appreciation for the group's public support, framing the conflict as a test of national resolve and criticizing the media and 'Eastern establishment' for their lack of patriotism. The conversation emphasized the necessity of staying the course to avoid the geopolitical consequences of abandonment, with Nixon invoking the legacy of Munich to argue for presidential leadership over public opinion polls.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman met to coordinate the administration's public relations strategy regarding the recent publication of the Pentagon Papers. Nixon emphasized that the White House should focus exclusively on the fact that the documents involved previous Democratic administrations rather than his own, framing the leak as a broader national security threat rather than a partisan issue. The President directed staff to push this narrative through House allies and press secretary Ron Ziegler while insisting on a bold, aggressive stance against the New York Times.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman met to coordinate the administration's response to the publication of the Pentagon Papers and to refine the messaging for the President's upcoming anti-drug initiative. Nixon emphasized the need for a unified strategy that frames the security breach as an assault on the government and shifts focus toward the failures of previous Democratic administrations. The President also discussed refining polling techniques to better gauge public opinion on key issues like housing and racial integration, while expressing frustration with his speechwriters' inability to produce concise, punchy rhetoric.
President Nixon met with staff members Stephen B. Bull and Manolo Sanchez to review the selection and pricing of gift compacts. The participants evaluated the cost and quality of available inventory to determine which items were suitable for presidential use. Nixon ultimately instructed the staff to bring him a less expensive model from the available options.
President Nixon met with Lucy A. Winchester and Stephen B. Bull to coordinate the distribution of mementos to White House staff and support personnel who assisted with the recent presidential wedding. The President emphasized recognizing those who performed extra duties, including gardeners, florists, caterers, and musicians, by providing gifts such as tie bars and compacts. Winchester was tasked with collaborating with Rex Scouten to finalize the recipient lists, ensuring that all staff members who contributed beyond their regular roles were acknowledged for their service.
President Nixon met with his staff and businessman Donald McI. Kendall to coordinate administration messaging, discuss drug policy, and review foreign relations. The group focused on refining the President's public rhetoric regarding federal drug enforcement efforts, with Nixon expressing frustration with current speechwriting and emphasizing the need for a more decisive, impactful message. Kendall provided an extensive briefing on international affairs, specifically regarding Greece, Iran, Egypt, and Japan, advocating for a pragmatic trade policy that prioritizes American economic interests over traditional foreign aid paradigms.
On June 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:03 pm and 12:06 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 524-016 of the White House Tapes.
On June 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:12 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 524-018 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Senator John L. McClellan and Clark MacGregor to accept a ceremonial Bowie knife and exchange gifts before shifting the discussion to the recent leak of the Pentagon Papers. Nixon and his guests analyzed the implications of the unauthorized disclosure, comparing the publication of the classified documents by the press to the illegal sale of stolen property. They expressed frustration over the media's defense of the act as protected speech, framing the situation instead as a dangerous institutional threat that necessitated government censorship.
On June 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:18 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 524-020 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Representative Wendell Wyatt and Clark MacGregor to discuss regional economic concerns, specifically the housing and employment crises affecting Oregon, Washington, and the Seattle area. The conversation transitioned to foreign policy, where Wyatt praised the President's diplomatic efforts toward the People's Republic of China, noting concerns raised by Japanese officials during a recent U.S.-Japan parliamentary conference. Nixon emphasized the strategic necessity of ending China's isolation for long-term global stability and arms control, while maintaining U.S. commitments to Taiwan. The brief meeting concluded with the presentation of gifts to the visitors.
President Nixon and George Shultz met to discuss legislative strategy regarding the Public Service Employment Bill, weighing the political risks of a veto against the potential for negotiating a compromise on manpower reform and revenue sharing. They analyzed the current state of the economy, specifically noting that second-quarter GNP growth was lower than anticipated but likely to be revised upward as income outpaced output. Additionally, they coordinated plans for upcoming budget meetings at Camp David and outlined travel arrangements for Shultz to address state advisory committees regarding the administration's economic policy.
On June 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 2:41 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 524-026 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his staff to orchestrate a coordinated public relations and legal counter-offensive against the New York Times regarding the publication of the Pentagon Papers, framing the leak as the trafficking of stolen goods and an act of providing aid and comfort to the enemy. He subsequently consulted with Senator Barry Goldwater and Clark MacGregor to discuss congressional support for the administration's stance on the war and security, while exploring ways to leverage Goldwater’s influence to shift the narrative. The meeting concluded with a broader review of foreign policy strategies, including relations with China, the Soviet Union, and the status of the U.S. aircraft industry.
Stephen B. Bull and Alexander P. Butterfield meet in the Oval Office to discuss the operational status and visual output of the White House taping system. The participants compare recording quality settings and deliberate on the administrative management of the equipment. Their brief exchange concludes with an acknowledgement of the system's active recording capacity.
President Nixon met with Senegalese President Léopold Sédar Senghor to discuss the geopolitical landscape in Africa, specifically the threats posed by Chinese and Soviet communist influence. Senghor emphasized Senegal's commitment to Western-aligned development and his belief in a pluralistic future where African nations contribute to a global civilization. The leaders also addressed economic development priorities, including agricultural infrastructure, fishing rights, and the importance of U.S. investment in the region.
On June 22, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 3:07 pm and 3:11 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 527-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with USIA Director Frank Shakespeare, H.R. Haldeman, and others to review Shakespeare's recent fact-finding trip to Southeast Asia. Shakespeare assessed regional attitudes toward Communist China, the Nixon Doctrine, and the emergence of Japan as a major economic and potential military power. He also criticized the current State Department handling of various ambassadors and communication centers, specifically advocating for more strategic management of personnel and institutions like Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty.
President Nixon and Vice President Agnew met with a group of Appalachian governors and key administration advisors to discuss the legislative strategy for extending the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and managing regional political concerns. The discussion shifted toward the administration's aggressive response to the leaking of the Pentagon Papers, which Nixon characterized as a threat to national security and a move by political opponents to damage his administration. Nixon and Agnew coordinated on the narrative for Agnew's upcoming international trip, with the President tasking his team with countering domestic criticism and emphasizing the administration's commitment to ending the Vietnam War through established diplomatic channels.
On June 22, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 5:06 pm and 5:09 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 527-010 of the White House Tapes.
On June 23, 1971, Stephen B. Bull and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 7:52 am and 9:10 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 527-013 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate administrative details regarding his upcoming schedule. The discussion focused on the availability and travel arrangements for Henry Kissinger and Rose Mary Woods. This brief consultation primarily served to manage logistics for the President's planned trip to Chicago.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and Henry Kissinger to strategize their public and political response to the leak of the Pentagon Papers and the ongoing Vietnam peace negotiations. Nixon emphasized a desire to appear dignified while shifting the burden of declassification to Congress, simultaneously plotting to expose the perceived duplicity of previous Democratic administrations. The President signaled a tough stance against Senate interference, warning that if negotiations with North Vietnam were derailed, he would prioritize a military escalation over a fixed withdrawal date.
President Nixon and his senior advisors and business leaders convened to formalize a national strategy for increasing veteran employment, emphasizing the need for businesses to provide veterans with a hiring advantage. The discussion included strategies for managing the fallout from the recently leaked Pentagon Papers, with Nixon directing his team to resist congressional hearings on war conduct while ensuring the documents were securely channeled to responsible leadership. Nixon also expressed a desire to keep the focus of the controversy on the previous administrations and away from current operations, tasking officials with maintaining a unified, firm stance against political opportunists.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and Charles Colson to develop a political strategy for responding to the Pentagon Papers, aiming to shift public attention away from the administration and toward the failures of the Kennedy and Johnson administrations. Nixon emphasized the importance of maintaining a calm, presidential demeanor while delegating aggressive attacks against the Democratic field, particularly targeting Edward Kennedy and Edmund Muskie, to subordinates and allies. The group also discussed using upcoming policy initiatives and economic indicators to bolster confidence, while Nixon directed his staff to demand significant financial contributions from potential ambassadorial appointees to secure necessary party funding.
On June 24, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:58 am and 11:01 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 528-010 of the White House Tapes.
On June 24, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:58 am and 11:01 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 528-011 of the White House Tapes.
On June 24, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:58 am and 11:01 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 528-012 of the White House Tapes.
On June 24, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 11:23 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 528-015 of the White House Tapes.
On June 24, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:35 am and 11:36 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 529-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with a delegation from the Philadelphia Police Athletic League (PAL) to discuss the importance of their community work and youth programs. During the meeting, the students presented the President with gifts and a petition, while the group discussed topics ranging from the value of sports and music education to the significance of mutual respect in society. The conversation concluded with photographs and the delegation departing for a tour of the White House before the President left for a scheduled trip.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman, Henry Kissinger, and other aides to devise political and legislative strategies to counter a looming Congressional effort to cut off funding for the Vietnam War. The discussion focused on stalling tactics, such as the potential for a Senate filibuster, to buy time for the administration's broader foreign policy initiatives, including upcoming breakthroughs regarding China and the Soviet Union. Nixon and his team aimed to use these diplomatic successes to shift public and Congressional focus away from the war, despite concerns that a legislative fund cutoff remained a significant threat by the autumn.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, and Henry Kissinger met to discuss administration strategy regarding the upcoming announcement of the President’s planned visit to the People’s Republic of China and the ongoing controversy surrounding the Pentagon Papers. The group focused on coordinating a disciplined message for a forthcoming Cabinet meeting, emphasizing the need to project strength and unity to both Congress and the public. Kissinger provided updates on Vietnam peace negotiations and international diplomatic dynamics, while Nixon finalized plans for the television address to announce the China trip.
On June 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull talked on the telephone from 2:47 pm to 2:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-002 of the White House Tapes.
On June 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 2:47 pm to 2:48 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 259-004 of the White House Tapes.