Conversation 023-145

TapeTape 23StartWednesday, May 3, 1972 at 3:56 PMEndWednesday, May 3, 1972 at 3:56 PMParticipantsNixon, Richard M. (President);  White House operatorRecording deviceWhite House Telephone

President Nixon instructed the White House operator to coordinate a message for Senator Robert A. Taft, Jr. after failing to reach him during a meeting in Senator Hugh Scott's office. Nixon directed the operator to inform Taft’s secretary that Charles W. Colson would contact the senator later to relay sensitive information. This arrangement was intended to facilitate the transfer of materials through Colson while the President was away from his office.

Robert A. Taft, Jr.Charles W. ColsonWhite House operationscommunication coordinationHugh Scott

On May 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 3:56 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-145 of the White House Tapes.

Conversation No. 23-145

Date: May 3, 1972
Time: 3:56 pm
Location: White House Telephone

The White House operator talked with the President.

[See also Conversation No. 335-23B]

     Request for a call to Robert A. Taft, Jr.
         -Taft's location
                -Hugh Scott
         -Return call
         -Message
                -Charles W. Colson's call

This transcript was generated automatically by AI and has not been reviewed for accuracy. Do not cite this transcript as authoritative. Consult the Finding Aid above for verified information.

Mr. President, I find Senator Tapps in Senator Scott's office in a meeting.
Should I get him there?
No, no, that's not necessary.
Does sleep work when he gets back to his office?
Well, I'll tell you, I'm going to be out.
I'll have to get in touch with him in another way later.
I'll be gone for a couple of hours, but...
Just tell his secretary that since I'll be gone, I want to get some information that Mr. Colson will be calling him as soon as he's free.
If he could give Mr. Colson a call, I would appreciate it.
All right.
Because he can pass this stuff to me.
Yes, sir.
All right.