Nixon White House Tapes — Conversation 015-087
Date: Monday, November 22, 1971 at 11:15 AM
Participants: Nixon, Richard M. (President); White House operator; Connally, John B.
Recording device: White House Telephone
Source: https://www.easynixon.org/tapes/015-087

This transcript was generated automatically by AI (WhisperX) and has not been reviewed for accuracy. Do not cite it as authoritative.

[0:00] John?
[0:04] Yes, sir.
[0:04] Just wanted to tell you good luck before you went on.
[0:08] And I had to tell you that on the campaign funding we discussed last night.
[0:13] I, frankly, just working on it this morning, I finally understood it.
[0:19] I just think we've got to hold that veto threat right over their heads.
[0:23] That's where I lean.
[0:23] I want you to know that in case it comes up.
[0:26] I'm sure it'll come up.
[0:27] And if it does, and I want you to say that you've discussed it with the president, or how do you feel you should have it?
[0:33] I think I ought to say I've discussed it with you, and that you have grave concern about it.
[0:37] And that it's seriously, that you feel that under the circumstances that...
[0:42] Now, here's a strategy that I have in mind.
[0:49] If we veto your information, what we will do is that I will veto and then call the Congress back into special session before Christmas.
[0:57] And I'll keep the bastards here right through until they pass the tax bill, you see.
[1:03] Everybody knows of you.
[1:03] Now, that's the way to play this game.
[1:05] If they're going to play this, we'll pull a Harry Truman on them.
[1:07] Mm-hmm.
[1:09] Yes, sir.
[1:09] So we're not without tools.
[1:11] Right.
[1:11] But I think you can take very strong.
[1:13] Well, I don't hold you.
[1:13] I know that, as I am, I'd like to keep going, but I just wish you well.
[1:17] Everybody's going to be watching.
[1:18] You go on 1130?
[1:19] Yes, sir.
[1:19] Okay.
[1:20] Good luck.