President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinate the protocol for a highly sensitive, impending death announcement to ensure minimal public delay. Nixon insists on immediate notification so he can deliver a prepared statement to the press within five minutes of the news being made public. This swift turnaround is intended to control the narrative and minimize the window for speculative reaction.
On May 2, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 10:43 am to 10:44 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 334-018 of the White House Tapes.
Nixon Library Finding AidConversation No. 334-18 Date: May 2, 1972 Time: 10:43 am - 10:44 am Location: Executive Office Building H. R. (“Bob”) Haldeman talked with the President. [See Conversation No. 23-104]
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 Do not cite this transcript as authoritative.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.