Nixon White House Tapes › Tape 162
Nixon White House Tape 162 (February 23, 1973 – February 24, 1973)
8 conversations · Camp David Study Table · about 11 min of released audio
Featuring Nixon, Wallace, Kissinger
An unknown individual initiated a request to the Camp David operator to connect a call to the Technical Services Division (TSD). This administrative interaction highlights the routine logistical and communication support provided to White House personnel at the Camp David facility. No substantive policy matters or strategic discussions were addressed during this brief operational request.
President Nixon initiates a phone call to Alabama Governor George C. Wallace through the Camp David operator. The conversation is limited to the President requesting the operator's assistance in facilitating this connection. No substantive policy discussion or further interaction is captured in this brief administrative exchange.
President Nixon called Governor George Wallace to request that he convey the administration's gratitude and support to attendees at a dinner honoring returning Vietnam Prisoners of War. The two leaders discussed the importance of achieving 'peace with honor' and recognized the fortitude of the POWs and their wives. Additionally, they briefly touched upon Wallace's recent health issues and confirmed arrangements for Wallace's upcoming participation in the National Governors' Conference.
President Nixon contacted the Camp David operator to facilitate a personal phone call to Shelley Buchanan in Detroit. The brief exchange served as a logistical request to connect the President with his intended party. No substantive policy matters or administrative decisions were addressed during this interaction.
President Nixon contacted the Camp David operator to facilitate a telephone connection to National Security Advisor Henry A. Kissinger. This brief administrative exchange served as a logistical step to enable high-level communication regarding ongoing foreign policy matters. No substantive policy discussions occurred during this brief interaction.
President Nixon consulted with a Camp David operator to confirm the current whereabouts and transit status of National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger. The operator reported that Kissinger was en route to New York via Andrews Air Force Base and was accompanied by General Brent Scowcroft. Nixon determined the information was not urgent and declined the operator's offer to initiate a call with his staff at that time.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger spoke via telephone to coordinate communications while the President was at Camp David. The brief exchange served primarily to initiate a secure line for further high-level deliberations between the two leaders. No substantive policy matters were recorded, as the call functioned as a procedural step to establish contact.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss international developments, media coverage, and diplomatic strategy while Kissinger is in New York. The conversation covers ongoing military actions in Laos and Cambodia, with Nixon expressing indifference toward negative network news coverage regarding these strikes. They also evaluate the Middle East situation, criticizing the perceived rigidity of the Israeli government's negotiating stance while acknowledging the domestic political pressures influencing those policies.