Nixon White House Tapes › Tape 144
Nixon White House Tape 144 (September 19, 1972 – September 20, 1972)
4 conversations · Camp David Study Table · about 3 min of released audio
Featuring Nixon, Colson, Hirsch, Cox, Hall
President Nixon utilized the Camp David telephone system to coordinate a brief scheduling adjustment through the facility operator. The primary objective of the call was to facilitate a direct conversation with White House aide Charles W. Colson. No substantive policy matters were addressed during this short administrative exchange.
President Nixon and Charles W. Colson discussed political strategy for the 1972 campaign, focusing specifically on how to counter Democratic nominee George S. McGovern. They analyzed McGovern's vulnerabilities regarding his defense budget proposals and his position on amnesty for Vietnam War draft evaders. The President directed Colson to emphasize that deserters must 'pay the penalty' for their actions, regardless of the war's conclusion, to effectively attack McGovern's credibility with the public.
William Hirsch contacted the Camp David operator to provide an update regarding his location and schedule. He informed the operator that he would be utilizing the facility for a brief period of five to ten minutes. This routine communication served to coordinate his presence at the presidential retreat.
Edward R. F. Cox consulted with Allen C. Hall of the First Family Advance Office to coordinate and refine his upcoming campaign schedule for New York. The two discussed logistical details for various appearances, including visits to corporate headquarters, high schools, and Committee to Re-elect the President (CRP) campaign offices. They evaluated the media potential versus the organizational value of these events to maximize outreach to voters and supporters in the region.