Nixon White House Tapes › Tape 18
Nixon White House Tape 18 (January 3, 1972 – January 18, 1972)
112 conversations · White House Telephone · about 5 hr 5 min of released audio
Featuring Nixon, Haldeman, Colson, Connally, Kissinger
President Nixon initiates a request to the White House operator to place an urgent call to Secretary of State William P. Rogers. The brief exchange serves as a logistical bridge to connect the President with his cabinet member for high-level government consultation. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this initial contact.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers coordinated their strategy for an upcoming trade initiatives meeting, emphasizing a need to appear supportive of free trade while avoiding actual legislative action during an election year. Nixon explicitly instructed Rogers to manage the presentation to ensure that controversial tariff proposals would be effectively stifled without political fallout. The two also discussed personnel matters, including the decision to decline an appointment for Frederick M. Eaton and the planned announcement of Willis C. Armstrong as Assistant Secretary of State.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call through the White House operator to contact Gerald L. Warren. The primary objective of the communication is to establish a direct line to Warren for further discussion. No substantive policy matters are addressed in this short administrative exchange.
President Nixon directs the White House operator to place a telephone call to Jody Smith, the recently inaugurated mayor of Ayrshire, Iowa. Nixon notes that Smith is distinguished as the youngest mayor in the country and provides the operator with the necessary contact information. The President's primary objective is to initiate direct communication with the young local official.
President Nixon called Jody Smith to congratulate him on his inauguration as the youngest mayor in the nation. The two discussed their shared backgrounds in working at service stations and their perspectives on community leadership. Nixon encouraged Smith's political career and expressed his hope to see the young mayor as a delegate at the upcoming Republican National Convention in San Diego.
In this extensive series of phone calls, President Nixon coordinates legislative and public relations strategy for the upcoming State of the Union address and the administration's Vietnam policy. He consults with key officials including Secretary of State William Rogers, Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird, and Henry Kissinger to finalize the decision to announce a further troop reduction to 69,000. Additionally, the President manages personnel matters, such as selecting Kenneth Rush as a successor, while also directing staff to launch a public campaign framing Senator Edmund Muskie as a proponent of busing.
President Nixon and George E. Allen exchanged New Year's greetings and discussed the political climate, including Nixon's high popularity rankings alongside Billy Graham. Nixon specifically solicited an anecdote from Allen regarding Harry Hopkins to use against Office of Management and Budget officials during budget negotiations. Additionally, the two men discussed the political necessity of recent U.S. bombing missions in North Vietnam as a means to protect American troops and facilitate withdrawal.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to facilitate a conference call with Office of Management and Budget Director George P. Shultz and Deputy Director Caspar Weinberger. The objective of the call was to coordinate a direct discussion with his two key budget advisors. The operator confirmed the request and immediately initiated the process to connect the participants.
President Nixon recounted an anecdote about Harry Hopkins and the Works Progress Administration to George Shultz and Caspar Weinberger to illustrate his frustration with departmental budget or supply requests. The President used the story, which involved a director being told to have his workers 'lean on each other' rather than receive more shovels, as a directive for Shultz and Weinberger to relay a message of fiscal restraint to Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird. The call served as a lighthearted but firm instruction to curb administrative spending.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place an outgoing call to his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox. The brief administrative exchange served solely to facilitate this personal connection. No other policy matters or professional developments were discussed during the brief interaction.
President Nixon and his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox, discussed the public and political reception of his recent television appearance. They analyzed the antagonistic interviewing style of journalist Dan Rather, comparing it to a previous program hosted by Howard K. Smith, and reviewed specific segments of the interview concerning the Vietnam War, foreign policy, and domestic issues. The conversation also touched upon upcoming travel schedules for the First Family and minor political planning regarding the 1972 primary season.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Secretary of State William P. Rogers. The brief exchange served as a logistical bridge to facilitate a direct conversation between the President and his top diplomat. This action initiated immediate communication between the two officials regarding undisclosed administrative or foreign policy matters.
President Nixon, Secretary of State William P. Rogers, and Attorney General John N. Mitchell discuss potential candidates for the U.S. Ambassadorship to Japan. The group decides to reject Fredrick M. Eaton for the position due to concerns over his age and the likelihood of a contentious confirmation process during an election year, while agreeing to offer him a future appointment. The participants pivot to vetting Robert S. Ingersoll, with the President tasking Rogers with evaluating whether Ingersoll’s professional background and personal toughness are suitable for the diplomatic post.
President Nixon consults with the White House operator to determine the whereabouts of Henry Kissinger. The President expresses urgency in locating Kissinger, instructing the operator to provide an update within thirty minutes. The brief exchange highlights the administrative logistics involved in tracking key national security advisors during the late evening hours.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone exchange with the White House operator to request a connection to National Security Advisor Henry A. Kissinger. This interaction serves as an administrative bridge to facilitate direct communication between the President and his advisor regarding ongoing national security matters. The conversation concludes once the operator confirms the request to place the call.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed plans to involve Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird in the upcoming announcement regarding Vietnam troop withdrawals, with Nixon intending to have Laird lead the press briefing to bolster the administration's Vietnamization policy. They also reviewed the qualifications of David Kenneth Rush for a position within the Department of Defense, noting his suitability despite potential resistance from Laird. Additionally, the pair coordinated diplomatic responses regarding Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's return to Bangladesh, monitored the deteriorating political situation in Malta and Italy, and received an update on Alexander Haig's progress during his trip to China.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call to the White House operator to be connected with Charles W. Colson. The interaction serves exclusively as an administrative request to facilitate a direct line of communication with his special counsel. No substantive policy discussions or decisions occur during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed the state of the 1972 Democratic primary race, focusing on the vulnerabilities of candidates like Edmund Muskie, specifically regarding his criticism of the administration's space shuttle proposal. The two men reviewed political intelligence on candidate fundraising, polling data across key primary states, and rumors surrounding Edward Kennedy’s personal life. Additionally, they evaluated the political benefit of successfully opposing Democratic-backed campaign finance legislation, noting that denying the opposition access to tax-funded campaign subsidies would force them to struggle with financial shortages during the primary season.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an immediate telephone connection with his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods. The brief exchange served as a routine administrative request to locate and connect the President to a key member of his inner staff. No policy matters or substantive political issues were addressed during this brief procedural communication.
President Nixon consults with Rose Mary Woods to pivot from sending a letter to Maj. Gen. Leslie E. Brown’s mother, Nora L. Moore, to instead initiating a direct telephone call. The President, operating from the Executive Office Building, instructs Woods to enlist White House operators to locate the mother, potentially in Los Angeles, to facilitate a personal conversation. This action reflects a preference for direct presidential outreach over written correspondence.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to facilitate a personal phone call to Nora L. Moore, the mother of Major General Leslie E. Brown. The operator informed the President that a message had been left for Mrs. Moore to contact him upon her arrival at the General's residence. This exchange served as a logistical coordination to ensure the President could successfully reach his intended party.
President Nixon initiated a brief, informal phone call to Nora L. Moore to convey birthday greetings after learning they shared the same birth date. During the conversation, Nixon praised the military record of Moore’s son, Major General Leslie E. Brown. Moore responded by assuring the President of his strong political support in her hometown of Yucaipa, California.
President Nixon received a brief notification from the White House operator regarding an incoming telephone call from his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower. The operator requested approval to patch the call through to the President. Nixon acknowledged the notification and directed the operator to proceed with the connection.
President Nixon and his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, held a brief telephone conversation to discuss personal matters and scheduling logistics. They touched upon a television appearance involving Robert H. Abplanalp on the program 'American Sportsman' that featured blue marlin fishing. The discussion also addressed administrative coordination regarding the President's upcoming departure for Andrews Air Force Base.
President Nixon initiates a request to the White House operator to place a telephone call to his close friend and confidant, Charles G. "Bebe" Rebozo. This brief interaction serves strictly as a logistical bridge to facilitate communication with Rebozo. No further substantive policy matters or decisions are discussed during this specific exchange.
President Nixon coordinated with the White House operator to arrange a connection with his close friend, Charles G. “Bebe” Rebozo. The discussion focused on scheduling logistics for the President's upcoming travel to Florida and California, as well as managing press coverage regarding First Lady Pat Nixon's trip to Africa. These arrangements were intended to facilitate both official work and personal coordination during the President's transit.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a direct phone call to Idanell B. “Nellie” Connally. The brief exchange served as a logistical request to facilitate communication with Mrs. Connally. No further policy or administrative matters were discussed during this short interaction.
President Nixon and Nellie Connally engaged in a brief, cordial exchange to discuss personal matters following the President’s birthday. The conversation centered on the Connallys' gift of a San Clemente photograph and an expression of gratitude for a thoughtful anniversary letter sent by the President. They concluded the call by discussing future social plans and commending First Lady Pat Nixon’s recent television appearance regarding her trip to Africa.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to facilitate communication with his staff. The President inquired about his afternoon schedule before requesting to be connected with advisor Peter M. Flanigan. This brief administrative exchange served to coordinate the President's immediate business agenda for the day.
President Nixon and Peter M. Flanigan discussed the search for a successor to outgoing official Kenneth Rush. Nixon instructed Flanigan to meet with Rush to vet potential candidates, prioritizing William P. Clements, Jr. while acknowledging Robert S. Ingersoll's interest in Japan and the withdrawal of Robert W. Galvin. The President delegated the vetting process to Flanigan, aiming to finalize a recommendation without further direct involvement from the Oval Office.
President Nixon directed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Reverend Billy Graham. The operator noted that Graham was believed to be in Puerto Rico at the time. This exchange served as an administrative request to facilitate communication between the President and his advisor.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to facilitate a follow-up telephone call to the Reverend Billy Graham, who had reached out to the President the previous day. Upon learning that Graham had checked out of his current location, Nixon provided instructions to the operator regarding his own availability. The President authorized the operator to contact him between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. to reconnect with Graham once his whereabouts were confirmed.
President Nixon requested that the White House operator place a telephone call to his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower. The operator promptly acknowledged the request to initiate the connection. This brief interaction served solely as an administrative coordination to facilitate a personal conversation between the President and his daughter.
President Nixon speaks with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, to review recent media coverage of the First Lady’s Africa trip and Julie's own environmental tour of the Big Cypress Swamp. They discuss the potential for future public relations opportunities regarding environmental issues involving both Julie and Pat Nixon. Additionally, Julie suggests that staffer Dave Parker needs additional support to manage the scheduling workload for her and her sister, Tricia, a concern the President agrees to address.
President Nixon consulted with Treasury Secretary John B. Connally regarding the legislative strategy for his upcoming State of the Union address, specifically focusing on the public presentation of a potential value-added tax. They agreed that the administration should avoid committing to specific new legislation, instead framing the address as a period of consolidation following previous major domestic and international policy initiatives. Additionally, the President recommended his personal osteopath to Connally to help treat an ongoing back injury.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone request to the White House operator to be connected with Vice President Spiro T. Agnew. The interaction serves as a logistical bridge to facilitate direct communication between the two leaders. No substantive policy matters or decisions were discussed during this short exchange.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to facilitate communication with Vice President Spiro T. Agnew while he was in transit. The President requested that Agnew return his call upon arrival in New York, explicitly noting that there was no urgency regarding the timing of the outreach. This brief administrative exchange served solely to establish a point of contact for the Vice President.
President Nixon initiated a request to speak with Reverend Billy Graham via the White House operator. This brief exchange served as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication between the President and the prominent evangelist. The conversation successfully concluded with the operator confirming the initiation of the call to Dr. Graham.
President Nixon and Reverend Billy Graham spoke to discuss the success of First Lady Pat Nixon’s recent diplomatic trip to Africa, specifically her reception in Liberia. The two reflected on the positive impact of the visit and coordinated efforts to host Liberian President William R. Tolbert, Jr. during his upcoming attendance at the National Prayer Breakfast. Nixon noted that he would likely host a formal dinner for Tolbert to reciprocate the hospitality extended to the First Lady.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator after being inadvertently disconnected during a telephone conversation with Billy Graham. He instructed the operator to re-establish the connection to resume his discussion with the evangelist. This brief administrative exchange served solely to rectify a technical failure in the communication line.
President Nixon and Reverend Billy Graham discussed the logistical arrangements and appropriate diplomatic protocol for an upcoming visit by Liberian President William R. Tolbert, Jr. Nixon expressed concerns about the timing and scale of the visit, ultimately deciding against a full state visit due to heavy administrative commitments. The two also briefly touched upon a recent positive article concerning Graham’s travels as highlighted by H.R. Haldeman.
President Nixon contacts the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with speechwriter Raymond K. Price, Jr. This brief administrative interaction serves as a bridge to a subsequent conversation with a key member of the White House staff. The exchange functions strictly as a logistical request to initiate official communication.
President Nixon and speechwriter Raymond K. Price, Jr. discuss the strategy and themes for the upcoming 1972 State of the Union address. Following consultation with John Connally, Nixon decides to emphasize a theme of "consolidation" and domestic policy implementation rather than introducing new legislative "shockers." The pair agrees to a "two-track" approach, utilizing a shorter, thematic speech accompanied by a more detailed written message to Congress to address the existing legislative backlog. Nixon schedules a trip to Camp David to focus on drafting and refining these materials.
President Nixon and Vice President Agnew briefly exchanged pleasantries regarding a gift before turning to the pressing issue of unauthorized leaks of secret government documents. Agnew proposed a meeting with the President to discuss a potential legislative strategy intended to counter recent court rulings that restricted the executive branch's ability to define national security risks. The two agreed to coordinate a meeting for Thursday, allowing the President to balance the discussion with his upcoming work on the State of the Union address.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Secretary of Defense Melvin R. Laird. The conversation was brief and strictly administrative in nature, serving only to initiate communication with the Pentagon chief. No further substantive policy matters were addressed during this exchange.
President Nixon and Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird discuss the potential appointment of Kenneth Rush to a high-level position, emphasizing the need to resolve his potential conflicts of interest. The conversation also focuses on finalizing the logistics for an upcoming public announcement regarding the reduction of U.S. troop levels in Vietnam to a 69,000 ceiling by May 1st. Finally, the two address the need for a coordinated response to ongoing intelligence leaks involving the Joint Chiefs of Staff and plan to meet with John Mitchell to formalize their strategy.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to initiate a telephone call to Senator Robert J. Dole. The brief exchange served as a logistical coordination effort to facilitate direct communication between the President and the Senator. No further substantive policy discussions occurred during this specific interaction.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to initiate an outgoing call to Director of Communications Herbert G. Klein. The brief exchange served solely as a request to connect the President with Klein. No substantive policy discussions or decisions occurred during this initial operator interaction.
President Nixon praises Herbert Klein for his recent media appearance defending the administration's policy toward India and countering criticism leveled against Henry Kissinger. The two men discuss the necessity of clarifying that the administration's actions were motivated by a rejection of Indian policies rather than anti-Indian bias, while also highlighting the political hypocrisy of Senate opposition to foreign aid. Nixon instructs Klein to call Kissinger in California to bolster his spirits by reporting positive press feedback and reassuring him that his professional credibility remains intact despite negative coverage from outlets like the New York Times.
President Nixon and Senator Robert Dole discuss administrative updates and upcoming political strategy during an informal telephone call. Nixon highlights his focus on drafting the State of the Union address and notes plans for a cabinet dinner, which will serve as the farewell event for Maurice Stans. Additionally, the President encourages Dole to meet with Charles 'Bebe' Rebozo while in Miami to discuss Florida's political climate.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig coordinate a brief meeting at the Executive Office Building to discuss Haig's health and physical condition following recent travel. Concerned about potential fatigue, the President checks on Haig's status before their upcoming session. The call concludes with Haig agreeing to meet Nixon immediately.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction served as an administrative request to reach a key member of the White House staff. No further policy or substantive discussion took place during this brief communication.
President Nixon consulted with Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler regarding his recent preparatory trip to the People's Republic of China, specifically addressing the logistical management of the press corps. Ziegler confirmed that the Chinese were cooperative and had accepted the proposed list of journalists, while also noting that Premier Chou En-lai extended an invitation for the Chinese table tennis team to visit the United States. Following this, the President briefly coordinated with Alexander M. Haig, Jr. to arrange a follow-up meeting at the White House.
President Nixon consulted with Alexander Haig to arrange a telephone call with journalist John Scali. The primary purpose of the discussion was to review incoming wires and facilitate direct communication with Scali. Nixon subsequently directed the White House operator to place the call.
President Nixon consulted with John A. Scali regarding the utility of Scali’s recent preparatory mission for the President’s upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China. Scali, alongside Alexander Haig and Ronald Ziegler, confirmed that the experience was highly productive and provided essential insights into the diplomatic landscape. The President expressed satisfaction with the progress made in organizing the visit and encouraged Scali to rest following his return.
H.R. Haldeman briefs President Nixon on a conversation with Henry Kissinger regarding ongoing diplomatic issues, including Vietnam troop withdrawals and Middle East negotiations involving Yitzhak Rabin. They discuss Kissinger's frustration with mounting press leaks and rumors of his resignation, which he believes stem from internal bureaucratic opposition. Nixon and Haldeman agree that Kissinger's habit of taking media calls is a counterproductive distraction, and they finalize plans for a upcoming meeting between Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and Secretary of State William Rogers.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an outgoing call to Charles W. Colson. The interaction served as a brief administrative coordination to establish communication with his special counsel. No further substantive policy matters were discussed during this connection.
President Nixon and Charles W. Colson reviewed recent public opinion polling data, specifically focusing on the Louis Harris poll and its implications for the 1972 presidential election. They discussed the President’s standing against potential Democratic rivals like Edmund Muskie, noting how foreign policy events, such as the India-Pakistan War and the bombing of North Vietnam, affected approval ratings. The two concluded that the administration remained in a strong position, particularly as economic indicators showed signs of improvement and positive domestic events provided potential momentum for the campaign.
President Nixon initiated a call through the White House operator to contact National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger. The brief exchange served as a logistical step to establish communication for an urgent or private discussion. No substantive policy matters were addressed during this initial operator request.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Paul W. Keyes. The interaction served strictly as a logistical request to facilitate communication with Keyes. No further substantive policy or political discussions occurred during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss various foreign policy matters, including the recent conflict in South Asia and the diplomatic implications of the independence of Bangladesh. They also review domestic political strategy, specifically coordinating the rollout of the annual foreign policy report with an upcoming presidential press conference to maximize media coverage. Additionally, they discuss the appointment of Kenneth Rush to a key position, emphasizing his ability to navigate the administration's power dynamics and his role in facilitating communication between the President and the national security apparatus.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call through the White House operator to connect with Special Counsel Charles W. Colson. The exchange serves solely as a logistical request to establish communication with a key staff member. No substantive policy discussions or decisions are recorded during this brief administrative interaction.
President Nixon and Charles W. Colson discussed the Administration’s political standing, current polling trends, and potential threats from Democratic candidates. They evaluated a memorandum from Douglas Hallett concerning internal weaknesses and the media’s favorable coverage of Senator Edmund Muskie. Nixon expressed interest in shifting focus toward the State of the Union address while Colson recovered from an illness.
President Nixon initiates a request through the White House operator to place a telephone call to National Security Advisor Henry A. Kissinger. The exchange serves as a brief procedural step to facilitate direct communication between the President and his top foreign policy aide. No further policy discussion occurs during this short logistical interaction.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the progress of the administration's upcoming foreign policy report and strategies regarding the ongoing conflict in Vietnam. They analyzed the potential for a North Vietnamese offensive, agreeing that the timing may be intended by the Soviet Union to overshadow the President's upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China. The two also confirmed scheduling for Kissinger’s upcoming meeting with Soviet Ambassador Anatoliy Dobrynin and dismissed requests for further U.S. intervention in Laos, concluding that the administration should prioritize its domestic agenda during Nixon's upcoming stay at Camp David.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with his aide, Stephen B. Bull. The interaction served as a brief administrative request to initiate communication between the President and a member of his staff. No further substantive policy matters were discussed during this exchange.
President Nixon contacted his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to coordinate logistical arrangements for his imminent travel to Camp David. Nixon issued specific instructions for a helicopter to be prepared for departure within ten minutes. Bull acknowledged the request and committed to facilitating the presidential transport.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a personal telephone call to First Lady Pat Nixon. The brief interaction served solely to facilitate this communication. No policy matters or substantive political topics were addressed during the exchange.
President Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon discussed the success of a recent tea event hosted by the First Lady, which was attended by approximately 350 guests. The conversation centered on the positive feedback Mrs. Nixon received regarding her recent diplomatic trip to Africa. The pair also briefly touched upon their respective schedules, specifically mentioning the President's work on the State of the Union speech and his upcoming time at Camp David.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a direct call to his Press Secretary, Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction served exclusively as a logistical request to establish communication with a key staff member. No further policy or strategic matters were discussed during this brief exchange.
President Nixon directed Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler to investigate and address a television interview featuring First Lady Pat Nixon, which the President viewed as a "vicious" and "cheap shot" by journalist Barbara Walters. Nixon instructed Ziegler to consult with aide Connie Stuart regarding the broadcast and to confront Walters directly about the negative tone of the interview. Furthermore, the President established a new policy requiring total White House clearance and editorial control for any future television specials involving the First Lady to prevent unauthorized media access and poor coverage.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to initiate a telephone call to his special counsel, Charles W. Colson. The brief exchange served solely as a logistical request to establish this communication line. No substantive policy matters or further instructions were recorded during the interaction.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed political strategy for the 1972 election, focusing heavily on undermining frontrunner Edmund Muskie. Nixon directed Colson to initiate a massive, coordinated campaign to associate Muskie with unpopular positions, specifically busing, the space shuttle, and opposition to J. Edgar Hoover. They also reviewed polling data and campaign logistics for upcoming primaries, emphasizing the need to keep Muskie’s support levels below 50% in states like New Hampshire.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place urgent telephone calls to two key associates. He specifically requested to reach Raymond K. Price, Jr. at his residence and John B. Connally. The brief exchange served as a logistical coordination to facilitate these high-level communications.
President Nixon and John B. Connally discussed a range of administrative and economic concerns, including a warning to keep Herbert Stein's public statements aligned with the administration's economic control strategy. They agreed that the Cabinet committee should focus on increasing the competitiveness of U.S. products rather than dwelling on potential failures or labor disputes. Additionally, Nixon requested that Connally develop a proposal for a national youth service program, which would provide non-military alternatives for civilian service at local, state, or federal levels.
H. R. Haldeman and President Nixon discussed logistical frustrations regarding a volatile event schedule, specifically highlighting the uncertainty of a planned appearance that had been repeatedly canceled and reinstated. The conversation touched upon the scheduling of John B. Connally and the strategic challenges of aligning appearances with the upcoming State of the Union address. Haldeman also initiated a request to contact Major General James D. Hughes to facilitate these administrative coordination efforts.
H. R. Haldeman and Major General James D. Hughes discussed the logistical difficulties of transporting President Nixon to Camp David via helicopter due to poor weather conditions. Haldeman emphasized the President's preference to avoid a long drive and requested an evaluation of alternative landing sites, such as Thurmont. Hughes committed to investigating the viability of nearby landing locations and reporting back to Haldeman shortly.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to connect him with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. Expressing clear frustration, the President remarked that he was in no mood to speak with his press aide. The brief exchange served solely as a logistical directive to initiate this internal communication.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the media reception of the latest U.S. troop withdrawal announcement and accompanying favorable coverage regarding the President's birthday and his recent meeting with Alexandria schoolchildren. They evaluate how the press is handling the Vietnam withdrawal announcement alongside related supplemental stories and intelligence concerning Soviet activity in the region. Nixon explicitly directs Ziegler to ensure that photographs of the school children are prominently featured in local newspapers.
H. R. Haldeman and Major General James D. Hughes discussed the feasibility of transporting the President to Camp David despite severe weather conditions in Maryland. Hughes reported that low visibility and icing risks currently grounded all helicopter and aircraft operations near the retreat. They agreed to maintain an airplane on five-minute alert while awaiting a potential improvement in the weather before Haldeman consulted the President on whether to proceed.
H. R. Haldeman coordinates with Maj. Gen. James D. Hughes to finalize the logistics for President Nixon’s upcoming trip to Camp David. They determine 4:00 p.m. as the optimal departure time, balancing weather forecasts for Thurmont, Maryland, and the status of helicopter availability. The pair establishes a contingency plan to travel by car if adverse weather conditions prevent air travel.
H. R. Haldeman coordinates with Stephen B. Bull regarding logistical plans for the President’s travel to Camp David. The discussion focuses on determining the mode of transportation—helicopter or car—based on weather conditions at the destination in Thurmont, Maryland. Haldeman also confirms that Rose Mary Woods and Marjorie P. Acker are scheduled to accompany the President's party and instructs Bull to relay these arrangements to the relevant staff.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone call to his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower. The exchange served strictly as a procedural request to initiate this personal communication. No policy matters or additional substantive business were addressed during this brief connection.
President Nixon speaks with the White House operator to facilitate a connection with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower. This brief logistical exchange serves to coordinate communication between the President and his family. The conversation functions solely as a bridge to a subsequent personal discussion.
President Nixon and John B. Connally discussed the Dallas Cowboys' recent Super Bowl victory and their impressive all-around performance. The conversation centered on analyzing the team's strengths, including the contributions of Coach Tom Landry and specific players. Nixon confirmed that he had personally called Coach Landry to offer his congratulations on the win.
H. R. Haldeman coordinates with John B. Connally to schedule a meeting with President Nixon for that afternoon. Connally expresses flexibility in his schedule, offering to postpone or cancel existing internal appointments, including a courtesy call with the Yugoslav ambassador. The two finalize the meeting time for 4:00 p.m. at the President’s convenience.
President Nixon initiates a request for the White House operator to connect him with speechwriter Raymond K. Price, Jr. This brief administrative interaction serves as a bridge to a subsequent substantive discussion with Price. No further policy matters are addressed in this specific exchange.
President Nixon and Raymond K. Price, Jr. discussed the drafting and tone of the upcoming State of the Union message. The conversation focused on refining specific policy references, particularly balancing mentions of the Secretary of the Treasury and the Vice President regarding tax reform, and adopting a more assertive posture toward Congress by emphasizing the need for legislative action in 1972. Nixon requested that Price consult with John Ehrlichman and Clark MacGregor on these revisions and finalize a draft that strikes the appropriate balance in its concluding appeals to Congress and future generations.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an urgent communication with Charles W. Colson. The brief exchange served as a logistical request to place a telephone call to the Special Counsel to the President. No further policy or substantive matters were discussed during this brief connection.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss strategies for the 1972 election, focusing on leveraging the contrast between Nixon’s composed media appearances and Senator Edmund Muskie’s perceived evasiveness. They evaluate potential vulnerabilities in Muskie’s campaign, specifically regarding his campaign finances and his "trust" theme. Additionally, they discuss utilizing Vice President Spiro Agnew for media interviews and coordinating with labor leader Frank Fitzsimmons to bolster support in key industrial states.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone request for the White House operator to connect him with speechwriter and advisor William L. Safire. The call serves as a logistical bridge to facilitate direct communication between the President and Safire. No further substantive policy matters are addressed in this short exchange.
President Nixon consulted with William Safire to outline a forthcoming televised address regarding the Vietnam War, emphasizing the need for a concise, compelling format over the overly detailed drafts produced by the National Security Council. The President instructed Safire to draft the speech privately to maintain control over the messaging, which centered on disclosing previously secret peace negotiations, the record of U.S. troop withdrawals, and recent diplomatic offers. Nixon explicitly directed Safire to keep the speech under 20 minutes and to avoid any tone of gloating, aiming instead to unify public opinion behind a clear, honorable path to ending the conflict.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an urgent connection to his Chief of Staff, H.R. Haldeman. This brief administrative interaction served as a logistical step to initiate a high-level briefing or discussion between the President and his key advisor. No substantive policy matters were addressed during this specific request for communication.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss the political implications of a memorandum authored by Raymond Price and Patrick Buchanan regarding the upcoming State of the Union address and the 1972 election strategy. Nixon expresses skepticism toward Price’s appraisal of the 1970 campaign, favoring Buchanan’s analysis of the media and the necessity of proactive political maneuvering. Haldeman is tasked with consulting Price, Leonard Garment, Richard Moore, and William Safire to refine the administration’s messaging on domestic policy issues such as revenue sharing and welfare reform.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a personal telephone call to his close friend and confidant, Charles G. “Bebe” Rebozo. The brief exchange served as a routine administrative request to facilitate private communication between the President and Rebozo. No other policy matters or substantive political issues were discussed during this brief connection.
President Nixon and Bebe Rebozo engaged in an informal discussion centered on the recent Super Bowl game between the Miami Dolphins and the Dallas Cowboys. The conversation transitioned into personal updates regarding travel plans to Florida and participation in the television program 'American Sportsman' with Robert Abplanalp and the President’s daughters. They concluded by briefly evaluating the political landscape of the upcoming Florida presidential primary, specifically noting the strategies of Democratic candidates Hubert Humphrey, Edmund Muskie, and George Wallace.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to summon Special Counsel Charles W. Colson to the Oval Office for an immediate meeting. This brief administrative exchange served as a directive to facilitate a direct consultation between the President and one of his key political advisors. No further substantive details regarding the agenda for this meeting were captured in the recording.
President Nixon initiated a telephone call through the White House operator to contact speechwriter William L. Safire. The conversation served as a brief administrative interaction to facilitate this connection. No substantive policy discussions occurred during this exchange.
President Nixon and William Safire discuss the drafting process for a high-stakes speech regarding secret foreign policy negotiations and the handling of POW issues. To maintain strict confidentiality, Nixon mandates that only Rose Mary Woods may type the draft, emphasizing the importance of themes centered on credibility and the strategic necessity of past official silence. The two finalize a schedule for Safire to deliver his work to the Executive Office Building so Nixon can review it around his other commitments, including the State of the Union preparations and a meeting on the dock strike.
President Nixon consulted with Senate leaders Hugh Scott and Mike Mansfield regarding the formal opening of the Senate and his upcoming address to a joint session of Congress. Nixon confirmed his intention to speak on January 20th, joking about the length of his remarks while coordinating logistics for his appearance. The participants also exchanged pleasantries about their recent recesses and briefly discussed the senators' lack of involvement in current presidential campaigns.
President Nixon held a brief, informal call with House leaders Hale Boggs, Gerald Ford, and Tip O'Neill to coordinate the logistics of his upcoming State of the Union address. The participants discussed the President's plan to deliver a live address on Thursday combined with a supplementary written message to keep the presentation concise. The conversation also included lighthearted banter regarding the recent Super Bowl and a joking remark about the lack of presidential candidates within the House compared to the Senate.
President Nixon initiates a call to Secretary of the Treasury John B. Connally through the White House operator. This brief administrative interaction serves as the bridge to facilitate a direct policy discussion between the President and the Secretary. No further deliberation occurs during this connection phase.
President Nixon directed John Connally to coordinate with Arthur Burns regarding the strategic release and public relations management of the upcoming federal budget message. They discussed leaking information to the Sunday papers to build anticipation, aiming to maximize political impact by framing the initiative as a proposal under consideration. Connally agreed to manage the messaging with Burns to ensure the President could finalize and announce the decision during the official budget release.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to contact William Safire and request his immediate presence at the Executive Office Building. This brief administrative exchange served to coordinate a direct meeting between the President and his speechwriter. No further policy or strategic details were addressed during the call.
President Nixon initiates a request for the White House operator to place a telephone call to Treasury Secretary John B. Connally. This administrative interaction serves as a bridge to a subsequent conversation between the President and his Treasury Secretary. The call is a routine logistical step in the President's daily schedule of high-level communications.
President Nixon initiates a request to the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Secretary of the Interior Rogers C. B. Morton. The brief interaction serves solely as a logistical bridge to facilitate this high-level communication. No further policy discussions or substantive developments occur during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Secretary of the Interior Rogers C. B. Morton discussed planning a post-China trip environmental tour to showcase national parks and conservation efforts. Nixon also addressed a proposal from Theodore Roosevelt III regarding the donation of a historical letter from the Empress of China to President Theodore Roosevelt. The two agreed to have Rose Mary Woods facilitate the acquisition of the document for potential inclusion in the Presidential Library.
President Nixon and Deputy Press Secretary Gerald L. Warren coordinated the public announcement of the upcoming State of the Union address. Nixon confirmed the date of January 20th at noon but deferred to H.R. Haldeman’s instruction to delay the release while ongoing congressional relations work was finalized. The President authorized Warren to proceed with the announcement once those internal preparations were completed.
President Nixon attempted to initiate a telephone call that ultimately remained incomplete. The recording captures background noise, including the voice of an unidentified woman discussing therapy, rather than a substantive exchange. No official business was conducted or decisions reached during this brief period of activity.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing telephone call to Henry Kissinger. The request specifically identified that Kissinger was currently located in California. No other substantive matters were discussed during this brief administrative exchange.
President Nixon received a brief communication from a White House operator regarding a message from Secretary of the Treasury John B. Connally. The operator informed the President that Connally had called and that Roger Breen had sent a response. This interaction served primarily as a status update on pending correspondence and administrative outreach.
President Nixon attempted to initiate an outgoing telephone call from the Oval Office but was unable to complete the connection. During the process, he engaged in a brief, unrecorded interaction with an unidentified staff member or operator regarding his planned agenda. No substantive policy discussions or administrative decisions were documented as the call failed to connect.