President Nixon and Harry S. Dent consulted on the political implications of a sensitive issue, likely related to the ongoing controversy over school busing. The discussion centered on a recent outreach effort to Senator Barry M. Goldwater to gauge his position and secure support. The exchange reflects the administration's efforts to manage internal political messaging and consolidate influence regarding volatile domestic policy challenges.
On August 2, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Harry S. Dent met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 9:51 pm to 9:55 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 269-003 of the White House Tapes.
Nixon Library Finding AidConversation No. 269-3
Date: August 2, 1971
Time: 9:51 pm - 9:55 pm
Location: Executive Office Building
Harry S. Dent talked with the President.
Unknown problem [Busing?]
-The President's call to Barry M. Goldwater
-Political impactThis 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 Do not cite this transcript as authoritative.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.