Nixon White House Tapes › Tape 20
Nixon White House Tape 20 (January 31, 1972 – March 2, 1972)
143 conversations · White House Telephone · about 4 hr 48 min of released audio
Featuring Nixon, Haldeman, Kissinger, Colson, Eisenhower
This recording consists entirely of electronic noise and contains no audible dialogue or substantive communication between participants. Consequently, there were no topics discussed, decisions made, or historical developments captured during this segment. The technical nature of the recording renders it devoid of informational value for administrative or policy analysis.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Senator Abraham A. Ribicoff. This request was a brief administrative interaction initiated by the President to facilitate direct communication with the Senator. No further discussion or policy matters were captured during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Senator Abraham Ribicoff discussed the legislative impasse surrounding the administration’s welfare reform efforts within the Senate Finance Committee. Ribicoff advised that the proposal to include the "working poor" was politically non-viable and recommended shifting toward a pilot program to test the initiative before full-scale implementation. Nixon agreed to have John Ehrlichman and Secretary Elliot Richardson coordinate with Ribicoff to evaluate this alternative strategy, with the possibility of a future meeting between the President, Ribicoff, and key committee leaders to resolve the deadlock.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to initiate an outgoing call to Congressman Robert McClory of Illinois. The primary purpose of this brief exchange was to facilitate communication with the Representative. No substantive political discussions occurred as the President merely provided the operator with the necessary contact information.
President Nixon initiated this brief telephone call to extend birthday greetings to Representative Robert McClory. The two briefly discussed McClory's upcoming birthday celebration and the Congressman's ongoing efforts to support the President's 1972 re-election campaign. The conversation concluded with a lighthearted exchange regarding the President's piano playing.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to request a telephone connection to Leslye A. Arsht. He provided the operator with the specific contact name and telephone number to facilitate the call. The brief exchange served as an administrative request to initiate communication with Ms. Arsht.
President Nixon called Leslye A. Arsht to express his personal gratitude for her dedicated service and long hours working on the White House news summary. He specifically praised the high quality of the summary, noting that it surpassed those available to previous presidents, and commended the contributions of Arsht and Lyndon K. “Mort” Allin. The conversation also served as an opportunity for the President to apologize for missing her recent party and acknowledge her commitment to his re-election campaign.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Congressman Stewart B. McKinney. This brief exchange served solely as a logistical request to initiate contact with the representative. No further policy discussions or substantive developments occurred during this brief interaction.
President Nixon telephoned Representative Stewart B. McKinney to offer birthday greetings and discuss the political reception of his recent Vietnam policy speech. Nixon emphasized the strength of his administration’s peace proposal, urging McKinney to maintain support despite expected North Vietnamese resistance or renewed military posturing. In response, McKinney confirmed his backing of the President's position and noted that a group of House members had signed a letter expressing their support for the administration's negotiation efforts.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an urgent communication with his Chief of Staff, H.R. Haldeman. This brief administrative interaction served as a logistical step to initiate a direct line of contact between the President and his top aide. No substantive policy discussions occurred during this operator-assisted connection.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinate the scheduling of upcoming meetings to accommodate the busy calendars of key visitors. They finalize plans for John B. Connally’s visit, ensuring it aligns with his congressional testimony requirements, and arrange for Billy Graham and the Apollo astronauts to visit the following day. The brief exchange confirms that these adjustments were already underway to ensure maximum convenience for all parties involved.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods. This brief communication served strictly as an administrative request to reach a key staff member. No further substantive policy matters or tactical discussions occurred during the exchange.
President Nixon directs his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, to secure a spot for Rita Rajnich De Fantis on the upcoming presidential trip to the People’s Republic of China. Emphasizing that it is essential for First Lady Pat Nixon to have proper assistance on the trip, the President instructs Woods to coordinate with H. R. Haldeman to either add an extra position or reallocate an existing one. Woods agrees to discuss the logistical arrangements with Haldeman the following morning.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an urgent communication with special counsel Charles W. Colson. The brief exchange served exclusively to initiate this administrative request for a phone connection. No further policy discussions or significant decisions were recorded during this brief interaction.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed the political landscape ahead of the 1972 election, focusing heavily on the Democratic field, particularly the campaigns of Edmund Muskie and Edward Kennedy. The conversation covered domestic policy issues, including concerns over pending unemployment figures and the political implications of busing and recent court decisions. They also reviewed media coverage, recent polling data, and the status of ongoing labor negotiations regarding a dock strike.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a telephone call to Congressman Charles S. Gubser of California. The operator confirmed the request to connect the President with the representative. This brief administrative interaction served as the initiation for the President's subsequent legislative outreach.
President Nixon received a brief congratulatory telephone call from Congressman Charles S. Gubser regarding the President's recent birthday. The conversation served primarily as a social pleasantry, during which Nixon acknowledged Gubser's legislative support. The President concluded the call by commending Gubser's ongoing loyalty and advocacy for the administration's agenda.
President Nixon initiates a request for the White House operator to place a telephone call to Representative Thomas N. Downing of Virginia. This brief administrative interaction serves as a precursor to a direct consultation between the President and the Congressman. The call highlights the President's ongoing communication with members of Congress regarding legislative or political matters.
President Nixon and Representative Thomas N. Downing engaged in a brief, informal exchange to exchange birthday greetings. During the call, they discussed shared birthdays among acquaintances, including Congressman Charles Gubser, and compared their physical appearances to that of Billy Graham. The conversation served primarily as a social pleasantry to foster rapport between the President and the Congressman.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone request with the White House operator to be connected with Peter M. Flanigan. The exchange serves solely to facilitate administrative communication between the President and his Assistant to the President for International Economic Affairs. No further substantive discussion occurs during this short segment.
President Nixon communicated with the White House operator to inquire about the availability of advisor Peter M. Flanigan. Upon learning that Flanigan was currently in New York delivering a speech, the President decided to postpone the contact. Nixon instructed the operator to hold the call until Flanigan returned to the office later that afternoon.
President Nixon requested that the White House operator place a telephone call to his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower. The exchange served strictly as a procedural request to initiate personal communication. No policy matters or substantive political topics were discussed during this brief interaction.
President Nixon and his daughter Julie Nixon Eisenhower discuss the success of her recent trip to Pittsburgh and a positive press report regarding First Lady Pat Nixon. The conversation transitions into an update on the President’s recent schedule, specifically his attendance at the National Prayer Breakfast and a meeting with Republican governors. The two also touch upon political strategy, including the potential national prominence of Governor Reubin Askew as a future Democratic keynote speaker or vice-presidential candidate.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call through the White House operator to connect with his Press Secretary, Ronald L. Ziegler. The primary objective of this exchange is to facilitate direct communication with a key member of his staff. No substantive policy matters are discussed during this administrative connection request.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler discussed the media reception of the President’s recent remarks at the National Prayer Breakfast, noting positive coverage on television and radio despite limited attention from the Washington Post and NBC. The conversation transitioned to the administration’s welfare reform strategy, specifically regarding an upcoming press conference by Elliot Richardson. Nixon emphasized framing the current legislative progress as a victory that reflects long-term administration efforts and fiscal constraints rather than a defeat.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a personal phone call to his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox, who was residing in Cambridge. The brief communication served exclusively as a formal request for the operator to connect the President to his daughter. No further policy or administrative matters were discussed during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox, discuss personal and political matters, including a biased New York Times article regarding Vice President Spiro Agnew and the media coverage of the President's recent public engagements. The conversation also covers scheduling logistics for upcoming trips to Florida and Camp David, alongside reflections on the President's upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China. Additionally, they exchange positive feedback regarding a memorandum from Charles Colson concerning the public perception of First Lady Pat Nixon.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Harry S. Dent. The brief exchange served as a logistical request to initiate direct communication with Dent. No further substantive policy discussions occurred during this brief administrative interaction.
President Nixon and Harry S. Dent discuss the positive reception among Republican governors following a recent briefing and their impressions of key party figures, including Nelson Rockefeller and Ronald Reagan. The two review political outreach strategies, specifically focusing on the administration’s efforts to engage black voters and the potential for Vice President Spiro Agnew to attend a California Republican Assembly meeting. They also exchange observations regarding the 1972 campaign landscape, including potential primary challengers such as George Wallace and Hubert Humphrey.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss political strategy regarding a response to a recent speech by Senator Edmund Muskie. The pair debate whether to ignore the comments or launch a counter-attack to exploit Muskie's vulnerabilities on the Vietnam War. Nixon decides to draft a memorandum for Patrick Buchanan outlining specific talking points, while they consider potential surrogates, such as Hugh Scott or Secretary of State William Rogers, to deliver the rebuttal.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with John D. Ehrlichman. The primary purpose of the communication was to locate Ehrlichman, who was situated at Camp David at the time of the request. The operator acknowledged the instruction to initiate the call.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discussed legislative strategies, including the potential veto of a legal services bill and negotiations regarding the Family Assistance Plan (HR 1). They reviewed the success of recent briefings with governors, leading to an action item for Ehrlichman to coordinate with Nelson Rockefeller regarding his upcoming testimony. The conversation also touched on the Justice Department’s suit against milk producers and personnel management within the Office of Economic Opportunity.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call through the White House operator to contact his aide, Stephen B. Bull. The exchange serves solely as a logistical request to establish a direct line of communication with Bull. No further administrative details or substantive policy matters are addressed in this short operator-assisted connection.
President Nixon contacted his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to coordinate his personal schedule. The President requested that Bull arrange a haircut appointment for 5:30 that afternoon. Nixon further instructed that if the barber was unavailable at that time, the appointment should be rescheduled for the following day.
President Nixon and Peter M. Flanigan discuss the management of upcoming trade negotiations and the coordination of White House staff testimony. Nixon mandates that John B. Connally lead these presentations while strictly prohibiting White House aides like Peter G. Peterson and William D. Eberle from testifying. The two also address concerns regarding David M. Kennedy's role in textile negotiations, with Nixon agreeing to proceed with the CIEP subcommittee arrangement only after Flanigan confirms it will keep industry stakeholders satisfied.
President Nixon initiates a request through the White House operator to place a telephone call to National Security Advisor Henry A. Kissinger. This brief administrative exchange serves as the logistical bridge to facilitate a high-level consultation between the President and his advisor. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this brief connection.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed a coordinated public relations strategy to counter recent criticism from Senator Edmund Muskie regarding the administration's Vietnam policy. The two agreed to maintain a firm, unified stance through rebuttals from White House staff and congressional allies while dismissing the civil conflict in Northern Ireland as an internal matter. Furthermore, they reviewed military contingency plans for Vietnam, with Nixon directing the immediate deployment of air and naval assets to South Vietnam to prepare for a potential North Vietnamese offensive.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to connect him with special counsel Charles W. Colson. This brief administrative exchange served as the direct precursor to a substantive discussion between the President and one of his key political advisors. No further topics were addressed during this connection process.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to determine the current status and availability of Charles W. Colson. The President decided against immediate contact and directed the operator to postpone the attempt to reach Colson until the following day. No substantive policy matters were addressed during this brief administrative exchange.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods. The brief exchange served as a routine administrative request to place an outgoing call. No substantive policy matters or further developments were discussed during this short interaction.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discuss how to balance US diplomatic relations with Great Britain and Ireland amidst rising domestic political pressure and violence in Northern Ireland. They agree to avoid formal mediation or public condemnation of the British, while signaling a willingness to offer 'good offices' to help resolve the conflict and managing requests for meetings from Irish officials. Additionally, the President confirms his strategy to bolster military forces in South Vietnam while deferring aggressive action against North Vietnam until after his upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China.
President Nixon contacts the White House operator to initiate an outgoing call to Secretary of State William P. Rogers. The brief exchange serves as a functional request to connect the President with the Secretary for official government business. No further substantive discussion occurs during this short administrative interaction.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discuss the appropriate U.S. response to the escalating civil unrest in Ireland, emphasizing a statesmanlike, non-interventionist approach to avoid exacerbating tensions. Nixon advises Rogers to avoid making political capital out of the situation, noting the need to maintain diplomatic decorum with Great Britain. Additionally, Nixon cautions Rogers regarding a scheduled meeting with Russian poet Yevgeny Yevtushenko, warning him to be wary of the poet's intentions and to strictly limit photo opportunities.
H. R. Haldeman coordinates with the White House operator to facilitate a telephone call from Julie Nixon Eisenhower to President Nixon. This brief exchange serves as an administrative bridge to connect the President with his daughter. No substantive policy matters or official developments are discussed during this logistical interaction.
Julie Nixon Eisenhower consulted the President regarding how to articulate the administration's stance on busing during her public appearances. President Nixon affirmed her critique of the policy's disadvantages and provided talking points emphasizing that, while legal segregation must be abolished to ensure educational equality, forced busing beyond neighborhood limits creates social chaos and results in inferior education. The conversation concluded with a brief coordination of the President's upcoming travel schedule to Florida.
President Nixon and General Alejandro A. Lanusse of Argentina held a telephone conversation to discuss international relations and bilateral economic cooperation. The leaders addressed Nixon’s upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China, with Lanusse expressing support for the initiative and confirming Argentina's own move to normalize relations with Beijing. They also reviewed the progress of an Argentine financial mission in Washington, with Nixon pledging U.S. support for Argentina's economic stability and emphasizing the importance of their continued diplomatic and trade partnership.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to speechwriter and aide Raymond K. Price, Jr. This brief administrative interaction served as the initiation of a direct communication line between the President and a key member of his writing staff. No substantive policy discussions occurred during this exchange, as its sole purpose was to facilitate the connection.
President Nixon consulted with speechwriter Raymond Price and H. R. Haldeman regarding revisions to his upcoming address for the White House Conference on the Industrial World Ahead. Nixon instructed Price to reorganize the speech by splicing the existing introductory draft with a set of substantive talking points to create a roughly 2,000-word text. He authorized Price to finalize the draft by cutting and pasting sections, while noting the need to manage potential overlaps regarding the wage and price freeze.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with his Press Secretary, Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief exchange served purely administrative purposes to initiate official communication between the President and a key member of his staff. No further substantive policy discussions were recorded during this brief request.
President Nixon and Ronald Ziegler discussed upcoming press briefings, specifically addressing Henry Kissinger’s presentation of a foreign policy report and recent media coverage concerning H. R. Haldeman’s controversial remarks about critics of Vietnam War negotiations. They agreed that Ziegler should respond to George McGovern’s recent policy proposals by refusing to comment on the positions of presidential candidates while maintaining the right to correct factual errors. Additionally, Nixon categorically denied a rumor reported by Helen Thomas regarding his direct involvement in selecting journalists for the upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China, authorizing Ziegler to clarify that the selection process followed established criteria rather than personal influence.
President Nixon requested that the White House operator connect him to First Lady Pat Nixon. This brief communication served as a logistical bridge to facilitate a private conversation between the President and his wife. No substantive political or policy matters were discussed during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon discussed the logistics of an upcoming business dinner speech, specifically confirming the attendance of guests Helene and Jack Drown. They also briefly reviewed the details of a recent Florida visit with Julie and David Eisenhower, including a dinner outing. No major policy decisions were made during this brief exchange regarding social and family scheduling.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. This brief administrative interaction served as a logistical bridge to initiate a direct conversation between the President and his top spokesperson. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this request.
President Nixon initiated a phone call to request a conversation with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. Upon learning that Ziegler was currently occupied with a briefing, Nixon instructed the operator to have him return the call once he concluded his duties. This brief exchange serves primarily as an administrative coordination for the President's upcoming communication with his press secretary.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to verify the current time. This brief exchange served exclusively to confirm the time for administrative or personal record-keeping purposes. No further policy matters or official business were discussed during the call.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to arrange a birthday call for H. Walter Riland, the father of Dr. W. Kenneth Riland. The President provided the recipient's specific contact information in Scarsdale, New York, to facilitate the connection. This brief administrative interaction served as a personal outreach effort by the President.
President Nixon initiated this call to extend birthday greetings to H. Walter Riland, the father of the President's physician, Dr. W. Kenneth Riland, in recognition of his 90th birthday. The two men exchanged brief pleasantries regarding the President's upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China and the President’s appreciation for the Riland family. The conversation served primarily as a personal gesture of goodwill and gratitude.
President Nixon directed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Robert H. Finch. This brief interaction served solely to initiate communication with the former Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. The President's primary action was the immediate request for this connection.
President Nixon coordinated with the White House operator to facilitate a phone conversation with Robert H. Finch. The operator informed the President that Finch was currently at lunch with John C. Veneman at the Madison Hotel but expected to return shortly. Nixon requested that Finch call him back before 3:00 p.m., or otherwise be reached later that afternoon.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Senate Minority Leader Hugh Scott. This brief communication served solely as a logistical request to establish a connection with the Senator. No further substantive policy matters or tactical decisions were discussed during this interaction.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a direct communication with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. This brief administrative interaction was initiated solely to place a call to Ziegler for undisclosed purposes. No further discussion or substantive policy matters were recorded during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Ronald Ziegler discussed the media fallout and criticism surrounding the selection process for reporters invited to cover upcoming administration events. Ziegler defended the administration's criteria for media selection against claims of regional bias, specifically addressing concerns from Texas figures like John Connally. They also reviewed public relations strategy, including how Ziegler successfully rebutted accusations that the selection process prioritized television coverage for spectacle.
President Nixon calls Senate Minority Leader Hugh Scott to commend him on the positive press coverage received following a recent leadership conference statement. The two discuss political strategies for criticizing Democratic presidential candidates Edmund Muskie and George McGovern, characterizing their policy positions as impediments to peace negotiations in Vietnam. Nixon encourages Scott to emphasize that these Democrats are effectively sabotaging potential peace settlements ahead of the 1972 election.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to initiate a telephone call to Congressman Earl B. Ruth of North Carolina. The brief exchange served solely to facilitate this communication, with the President providing the necessary contact information to the operator. No further policy or political discussions occurred during this brief request.
President Nixon attempted to place a telephone call to Congressman Earl B. Ruth through the White House operator. The connection failed, resulting in the accidental disconnection of the Congressman. The operator requested permission to reestablish the call, which the President authorized.
President Nixon telephoned Representative Earl B. Ruth to extend birthday greetings and express appreciation for his legislative support. The discussion briefly transitioned to the political sensitivity surrounding federal deficit spending and employment goals. Ruth assured the President that he would provide his vote on the budget if necessary, despite his personal opposition to deficit spending.
President Nixon and Robert H. Finch discuss the perceived quality of the Cabinet and the effectiveness of recent leadership meetings. They review a summary of Secretary of State William P. Rogers's foreign policy record, with the President expressing strong approval of the accomplishments listed. The conversation highlights the administration's internal satisfaction with its leadership team's collective performance.
President Nixon requested that the White House operator connect him to Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction served as a logistical step to initiate a direct line of communication between the President and his primary spokesperson. No further substantive discussion took place during this specific telephone connection.
President Nixon attempted to reach Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler by telephone but was informed that he was attending a Parent Teacher Association meeting at St. Agnes School. The operator estimated that Ziegler would be unavailable for approximately two hours. Nixon ultimately decided not to pursue the contact at that time, instructing the operator to drop the call.
President Nixon attempted to reach Chief of Staff H. R. Haldeman via the White House operator to discuss official business. Upon learning that Haldeman was currently at a movie, the President opted not to disturb him. Consequently, no further communication took place and no official actions were initiated.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an urgent outgoing call to his domestic policy advisor, John D. Ehrlichman. The brief exchange served primarily to facilitate direct communication between the President and a key staff member. No policy discussions occurred during this administrative request.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to determine the whereabouts of domestic advisor John D. Ehrlichman. The operator informed the President that Ehrlichman was unavailable because he was attending a movie at a theater. No further substantive policy matters were discussed during this brief administrative inquiry.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing call to his close friend and confidant, Charles G. “Bebe” Rebozo. The interaction served strictly as a logistical request to facilitate communication with Rebozo. No further discussion or substantive policy matters were recorded during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Charles G. “Bebe” Rebozo discussed logistical arrangements for an upcoming presidential trip to Florida, including fishing plans with John B. Connally and Robert H. Abplanalp. They also reviewed political strategy, specifically discussing H. R. Haldeman’s recent public criticism of administration opponents. The conversation touched upon the reactions of various Democratic presidential candidates to these attacks and the broader media coverage surrounding the primary election landscape.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place outgoing calls to three Republican congressmen: John N. Erlenborn of Illinois, John T. Myers of Indiana, and John M. Zwach of Minnesota. The President provided the names and respective states for each representative, noting that the order in which the calls were placed was irrelevant. This administrative request initiated a sequence of executive outreach to members of the House of Representatives.
President Nixon, Rose Mary Woods, and Congressman John N. Erlenborn engaged in a brief telephone conversation primarily to exchange birthday greetings. Erlenborn initiated the call to wish the President well following his recent birthday, noting the coincidental shared birth date of two other Republican congressmen. The exchange remained social and congratulatory in nature, focusing on the lighthearted trivia surrounding their birthdays and the prospect of Erlenborn's future congressional seniority.
President Nixon and Representative John T. Myers engaged in a brief, informal telephone conversation initiated by Myers to extend birthday wishes to the President. During the exchange, the two men discussed the President's age and speculated about the long-term political career of the Congressman. The dialogue concluded with a lighthearted remark regarding the potential for Myers to eventually become Speaker of the House.
Representative John M. Zwach called President Nixon to offer belated birthday greetings following the President’s birthday the previous day. The conversation highlighted a coincidence regarding shared birthdays among Republican colleagues John T. Myers and John N. Erlenborn. President Nixon acknowledged the call by expressing his appreciation for Zwach’s ongoing political support.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing call to General Walter R. Tkach. This brief administrative exchange served as the precursor to a subsequent conversation between the President and his physician. The primary action item was the successful establishment of this direct line of communication.
President Nixon calls Major General Walter R. Tkach to personally inform him that he has signed the paperwork authorizing Tkach's promotion to major general. Tkach expresses surprise at the swiftness of the advancement, as he had originally anticipated the promotion would not occur until the following year. Nixon playfully warns Tkach not to spend the associated pay raise immediately, noting that the bureaucratic process for the salary adjustment may take several months.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a personal telephone call to First Lady Pat Nixon. The brief interaction served strictly as a request for the operator to connect the President to his wife. No substantive political or policy matters were discussed during this brief communication.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to confirm the current whereabouts and schedule of First Lady Pat Nixon. The operator reported that Mrs. Nixon was in New York and expected to return by 5:00 p.m. Nixon decided against attempting to contact her, concluding the brief inquiry.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The primary purpose of this brief exchange was to facilitate communication between the President and his Deputy Assistant for National Security Affairs. No further policy discussions or substantive developments occurred during this administrative request.
President Nixon and General Alexander Haig discussed the logistics and strategic objectives of an upcoming 48-hour, maximum-effort bombing campaign in Vietnam. They emphasized the operation's psychological impact, aiming to correct enemy perceptions of weakened U.S. strength and to demonstrate the high cost of continued aggression. The conversation further confirmed that military leadership, including Admiral Thomas Moorer and General Creighton Abrams, supported the strike as a means to gain tactical intelligence and utilize superior naval and air assets.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an immediate telephone connection with his National Security Advisor, Henry A. Kissinger. This brief administrative interaction served as the necessary logistical step to initiate a high-level consultation between the two men. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this request for communication.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the need to clarify the administration's stance on peace negotiations in Vietnam, specifically regarding recent reports of U.S. "flexibility." Kissinger explains that Secretary of State William P. Rogers and press secretary Ronald Ziegler inadvertently sparked controversy by appearing to soften the U.S. position. The two agree to publicly emphasize that South Vietnamese President Nguyen Van Thieu's offer to resign was entirely his own initiative, thereby distancing the White House from the perception of making unauthorized concessions.
H. R. Haldeman and Patrick Buchanan review the President’s recent press conference, assessing its effectiveness and impact on public perception. They discuss the substance of Nixon’s delivery, particularly his handling of Vietnam questions and his strong stance on busing. The conversation highlights the administration's strategic timing regarding busing legislation in light of the President’s upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate urgent communications with Secretary of State William P. Rogers and Chief of Staff H. R. Haldeman. This administrative interaction reflects the President's effort to coordinate key personnel shortly before his historic trip to China. The brief exchange served as a logistical necessity to establish direct contact with his top advisors.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discussed various administrative priorities, primarily focusing on streamlining ambassadorial appointments and refining the President's upcoming travel schedule. Nixon directed Haldeman to manage appointment recommendations through Peter Flanigan while minimizing Henry Kissinger’s involvement to avoid bureaucratic friction. Additionally, the President decided to curtail the practice of taking cabinet members and other officials on Air Force One to preserve his own energy and set a stricter standard for presidential travel protocols.
Henry Kissinger informs President Nixon that North Vietnamese officials have initiated a meeting with Lt. Gen. Vernon A. Walters, marking a rare shift in diplomatic engagement. The two discuss potential motivations behind this move, including the possibility of a new meeting request or a strategic diplomatic gesture regarding past negotiation proposals. Additionally, Kissinger confirms his plan to brief Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird on the promotion of Alexander M. Haig, Jr. during an upcoming breakfast meeting.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an urgent telephone call to his National Security Advisor, Henry Kissinger. The President expressed a desire to reach Kissinger despite acknowledging uncertainty regarding whether he had returned to his office or residence. This brief administrative exchange served solely to facilitate direct communication between the President and his top foreign policy aide.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger debriefed on a recent meeting with French intellectual André Malraux, focusing on his insights regarding the upcoming presidential trip to the People's Republic of China. They discussed the historical weight of the visit and the significance of Mao Tse-tung’s leadership style, comparing it to other world figures. Nixon emphasized the need to approach the China summit with confidence and dignity while dismissing the necessity of discussing economic aid, a topic he felt was better left to the Chinese to initiate.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call to connect with White House special counsel Charles W. Colson. The exchange serves solely as a logistical request for the operator to establish the line. No substantive policy discussions or decisions are recorded during this short administrative interaction.
President Nixon and Charles Colson reviewed the political landscape ahead of the President’s upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China, focusing on recent polling data and public sentiment. They analyzed the impact of Gallup and Samuel Lubell survey results regarding the Vietnam War, the President's approval ratings, and criticisms leveled by Edmund Muskie. The pair also discussed the political momentum of the 1972 election, including Jimmy Hoffa’s recent endorsement and strategies for managing the media narrative.
President Nixon speaks with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, to exchange pleasantries regarding a gift of flowers and to coordinate travel plans for an upcoming family visit to Camp David. They discuss the potential availability of Julie, Tricia Nixon Cox, and First Lady Pat Nixon to join the President at the retreat between February 15 and 16. Julie notes her commitments to a Ladies Auxiliary reception and a Lions Eye Bank event, and they conclude by directing the logistical arrangements for the trip to be handled through Stephen B. Bull.
President Nixon initiates a request to the White House operator to place a return telephone call to his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox. The operator confirms the request, noting that she had previously attempted to reach him. This brief exchange facilitates a personal communication between the President and his daughter.
President Nixon and his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox, discussed logistics regarding the family's schedule and upcoming travel plans. They coordinated the President’s planned trip to Camp David for work, as well as the respective locations and activities of Pat Nixon and Julie Nixon Eisenhower at the White House. Tricia explored the possibility of joining her father at Camp David during the afternoon.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a personal telephone call to his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower. After the operator informed him that she was already on another line, the President requested to be called back once the line became available. This brief exchange reflects the routine administrative process for the President to facilitate private communications with family members.
President Nixon speaks with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, to briefly inquire about her personal schedule. The exchange serves as a check-in regarding her upcoming commitments and whereabouts. No substantive political or policy matters were addressed during this short telephonic communication.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with his Chief of Staff, H.R. Haldeman. This brief administrative exchange served as the necessary logistical step to initiate a direct line of communication between the President and his top aide. No further substantive policy matters were discussed during this specific interaction.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinate the delivery of remarks prepared for the President’s upcoming departure to the People’s Republic of China. Haldeman confirms that the documents are ready, and the President requests their immediate delivery for his review. This brief exchange serves to finalize briefing materials essential for the historic diplomatic mission.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call to connect with New York Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller. The conversation serves solely as a procedural request for the White House operator to place the call to the Governor. No substantive policy matters or further discussions were captured in this recording segment.
Governor Nelson Rockefeller called President Nixon to express strong support for the President’s upcoming historic trip to the People’s Republic of China, emphasizing the initiative's significance for global peace. The two discussed the complex negotiations regarding Taiwan and the positive public reception reflected in recent Gallup polling. To ensure continued collaboration, the President committed to having Henry Kissinger provide Rockefeller with a formal briefing on the trip upon his return.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator not to interrupt Henry Kissinger, who was currently engaged in a telephone conversation with Governor Ronald Reagan. Nixon requested that the operator wait for Kissinger to conclude his call before facilitating a return communication. Additionally, the President issued a directive for the operator to connect him with H.R. Haldeman.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman debrief the successful conclusion of the President's trip to China, focusing on the positive public reception at Andrews Air Force Base and the favorable stock market performance. The conversation shifts to managing press relations, specifically addressing a critical Washington Post headline regarding Taiwan policy that drew concern from press secretary Ron Ziegler. Despite these media challenges, the participants reaffirm the overall success of the diplomatic mission and discuss the ongoing efforts of Henry Kissinger to brief domestic political leaders.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the political fallout and public reception following Nixon's recent trip to China, specifically focusing on clarifying the U.S. defense commitment to Taiwan. Kissinger provides updates on support from Ronald Reagan and concerns regarding criticism from conservative commentators like William F. Buckley, Jr. They also coordinate plans for upcoming meetings with Congressional leaders and determine that a meeting with Soviet Ambassador Anatoliy Dobrynin should be postponed to avoid potential diplomatic friction with the Chinese.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an urgent outgoing call to Secretary of State William P. Rogers. This brief administrative interaction served as the necessary procedural step to connect the President with his chief diplomat late in the evening. No further discussion occurred between the President and the operator regarding the substance of the requested conversation.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discuss their strategy for an upcoming briefing with Congressional leaders following Nixon's historic trip to the People's Republic of China. They coordinate their public messaging regarding the Nixon Doctrine, the U.S. commitment to Taiwan, and the necessity of maintaining a military presence in Japan and Europe to counter the Soviet threat. Additionally, Nixon decides to announce at the meeting that the Chinese government has extended an invitation to Senators Mike Mansfield and Hugh Scott to visit China, a move intended to bolster bipartisan support.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing telephone call to Treasury Secretary John B. Connally. The brief exchange served solely as an administrative directive to connect the President with his Cabinet member late in the evening. No substantive policy matters or further discussions were recorded during this connection attempt.
President Nixon and John B. Connally discuss the aftermath of the President’s recent trip to the People's Republic of China, specifically focusing on the overwhelming public relations success and media domination surrounding the visit. Nixon characterizes his negotiations with Chinese leaders Mao Tse-tung and Chou En-lai as firm and pragmatic. They also address technical failures in the airport sound system during the President's return, leading Nixon to offer a summary of his remarks for an upcoming cabinet meeting.
President Nixon initiates a request to the White House operator to be connected with his Press Secretary, Ronald L. Ziegler. The conversation serves solely as a brief administrative interaction to facilitate this communication. No further policy or substantive discussion occurs during this short exchange.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the positive public reception of the President's return from his historic trip to the People's Republic of China. The pair evaluates media coverage of the visit, specifically addressing inaccurate reporting by the Washington Post regarding U.S. defense commitments to Taiwan. Nixon directs Ziegler to deflect further press inquiries on the Taiwan issue by referring back to previous statements made by himself and Henry Kissinger to avoid complicating sensitive diplomatic relations.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an outgoing call to his close friend and confidant, Charles G. "Bebe" Rebozo. The brief exchange served strictly as an administrative request to establish this line of communication late in the evening. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this connection.
President Nixon and Charles G. “Bebe” Rebozo held a brief, informal telephone conversation to discuss personal scheduling and the political aftermath of the President’s recent trip to the People’s Republic of China. Rebozo shared his perspective on the Democratic Party's reaction to the visit, and the two men coordinated potential plans for a presidential trip to Florida. The call concluded with updates on their respective work obligations and upcoming social engagements.
President Nixon initiated a call through the White House operator to contact Clark MacGregor. The brief exchange served as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication with MacGregor regarding ongoing administration matters. No further policy discussions or substantive developments occurred during this connection attempt.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone exchange with the White House operator to request a connection to Charles W. Colson. The call serves as a logistical bridge to facilitate direct communication with his aide. No further substantive policy matters are addressed during this brief administrative request.
President Nixon and Clark MacGregor discuss the highly positive reception from congressional leaders, including Barry Goldwater and J. William Fulbright, regarding the President's recent diplomatic trip to the People's Republic of China. MacGregor emphasizes the Senate's pride in the upcoming visit of Majority Leader Mike Mansfield and Minority Leader Hugh Scott to China, noting it bolsters institutional morale. The conversation also touches upon managing Fulbright's specific concerns regarding Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty, as well as the President’s need for rest following his intense workload during the trip.
Charles W. Colson calls President Nixon to offer congratulations and share positive domestic feedback following the President's recent trip to the People's Republic of China. Colson emphasizes that the President's demeanor and confidence during the visit successfully impressed the public and converted political skeptics. The brief conversation concludes with the President requesting that Colson call back in five minutes so he can address pending administrative paperwork.
President Nixon directs the White House operator to facilitate a follow-up telephone call with Charles W. Colson. This brief communication serves as a logistical bridge to connect the President with his Special Counsel for further discussion. No substantive policy matters are addressed in this administrative exchange.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed the positive public reception of the President's recent trip to the People's Republic of China, emphasizing how Nixon's poise and confidence helped cultivate a stronger, more favorable personal image among the American public. Colson shared feedback from various media figures and pollsters, noting that observers were particularly impressed by the President's leadership during the trip, even amidst critical reporting regarding the Taiwan issue. The pair agreed that the successful projection of presidential strength and control was vital for political standing, and they coordinated efforts to push back against unfavorable media coverage, specifically targeting the reporting of Dan Rather.
President Nixon held a brief telephone conversation with H. R. Haldeman to coordinate the timing and logistics of an upcoming meeting. The discussion focused on facilitating a subsequent session between the President, Haldeman, and Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The call served primarily as an administrative bridge to assemble key staff for immediate policy or press deliberations.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with his Chief of Staff, H.R. Haldeman. This brief administrative interaction served as an intermediary step to coordinate communication within the executive staff. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this specific exchange.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinate logistical arrangements for an upcoming trip to Florida, specifically discussing the scheduling and passenger manifests for the presidential and staff aircraft. The conversation also addresses media coverage regarding the President's recent visit to the People’s Republic of China, including reactions from political leaders and editorial columnists. Additionally, they touch upon the President's immediate schedule, which includes planned bill signings and meetings with various administration officials.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with his deputy assistant for national security affairs, Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The brief exchange served as an administrative request to reach Haig, who was instrumental in managing the President's foreign policy and national security communications. No further policy discussions or substantive matters were recorded during this brief administrative call.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss the aftermath of Nixon's historic trip to the People's Republic of China, specifically focusing on Secretary of State William P. Rogers's critical reaction to the visit. The conversation highlights friction regarding the administration's policy toward Taiwan and the PRC, with Nixon expressing frustration over Rogers's perceived lack of understanding of the geopolitical nuances. Haig affirms his support for the trip's success before Nixon requests a briefing call with Henry Kissinger.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss logistics for upcoming travel to Florida and coordinate the messaging for Kissinger’s interactions with the Nixon family. The conversation addresses reports of skepticism from Secretary of State William P. Rogers regarding the President’s China policy, which Nixon and Kissinger dismiss as a lack of understanding. The two reaffirm their control over foreign policy strategy, specifically regarding China, the Soviet Union, and Vietnam negotiations.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an outgoing call to his close friend and confidant, Charles G. “Bebe” Rebozo. The brief exchange served strictly as a procedural request to establish the connection with Rebozo. No further substantive policy matters or decisions were discussed during this brief communication.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an outgoing call to Hobart D. Lewis. The interaction served as a brief administrative request to connect the President with Lewis for discussion. No further details regarding the nature or outcome of the subsequent conversation were recorded.
President Nixon and Hobart D. Lewis discuss the success and geopolitical implications of the President’s recent trip to the People's Republic of China. Lewis praises the media coverage of the visit, particularly the performances of the President and First Lady Pat Nixon, while both men emphasize the strategic impact of the trip on Soviet-American relations. They also touch upon upcoming Reader's Digest coverage by James Michener and dismiss critical newspaper reporting regarding the administration's policy on Taiwan.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Senator Hugh Scott. This administrative communication served to facilitate direct contact between the President and the Senate Minority Leader. No further substantive policy discussions were recorded during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Senate Minority Leader Hugh Scott discussed the upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China by Scott and Senator Mike Mansfield. Nixon instructed Scott to mitigate friction with the House of Representatives by emphasizing that future trips would likely include House members. Additionally, the President advised Scott to maintain a measured diplomatic stance regarding Taiwan to avoid provoking a negative reaction from Chinese officials.
President Nixon and his close friend Charles G. “Bebe” Rebozo discuss the overwhelming positive public reaction to the President’s recent historic trip to the People's Republic of China. Rebozo praises the diplomatic mission as a monumental achievement that has deeply moved the American public. The brief call also touches upon logistical preparations for the President’s upcoming trip to Florida with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower.
President Nixon and the White House operator manage a brief telephonic interaction regarding a connection error. The call involves a misdirected attempt by Dwight L. Chapin to reach John V. Brennan. The President acknowledges the error and instructs the operator to facilitate the correct connection.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to connect him with Charles W. Colson. The call served as a brief administrative request to facilitate communication between the President and his special counsel. No further substantive discussion occurred during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss the political implications of recent economic trends, specifically focusing on the upcoming January unemployment figures and stock market performance. The conversation also analyzes the volatility of the 1972 Democratic primaries, particularly the decline of Edmund Muskie's campaign and the potential impact of the busing issue on Democratic candidates. Nixon expresses satisfaction with the defeat of the Griffin Amendment, noting that it preserves his administration's flexibility to define its own legislative stance on the busing issue.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a call to First Lady Pat Nixon to discuss her current schedule. Upon learning she was already on another line, the President opted not to interrupt her conversation. No further action was taken, as Nixon instructed the operator that there was no urgency regarding the request.
President Nixon requested that the White House operator place a telephone call to his aide, Ronald H. Walker. The brief interaction served solely to facilitate this administrative connection. No further policy discussions or substantive dialogue occurred during this exchange.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to check the availability of Ronald H. Walker for a planned telephone call. Upon learning that Walker was currently unavailable, the President decided to postpone the outreach until the following day due to his impending departure for Florida. No further actions were taken during this brief administrative exchange.
President Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon discussed the public display of gifts received during the President's recent trip to China, agreeing that the items would generate significant public interest. Additionally, the conversation touched upon the logistics of Julie Nixon Eisenhower's travel schedule, including a delay in her departure and an upcoming phone call with the President.
President Nixon called Ronald H. Walker to commend him and his team for their successful logistical efforts during the President’s recent trip to the People’s Republic of China. Nixon acknowledged the demanding nature of the assignment and expressed pride in their performance while noting the Chinese officials' observations regarding the team's youth. The conversation concluded with Nixon encouraging the fatigued Walker to take a planned trip to Florida to recover his health.
Manolo Sanchez coordinated with the White House operator and Rose Mary Woods to manage President Nixon’s telephone communications and logistics. The discussion focused on locating the President near the Lincoln Sitting Room and ensuring his phone line remained open for upcoming calls. The primary action item involved Sanchez instructing the operator to maintain the connection to facilitate the President's immediate telephonic availability.
President Nixon and his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, spoke briefly to discuss the recent death of Calvin E. Brumley, who suffered a fatal heart attack on March 4. The President offered his condolences and coordinated plans to place a sympathy call to the widow, Jayne Brumley. Additionally, the two checked in on Woods’s personal health status following her recent concerns.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an urgent call to National Security Advisor Henry A. Kissinger. This administrative interaction served to facilitate direct communication between the President and his advisor during the late evening. No further substantive policy matters were discussed during this brief exchange.