Nixon White House Tapes › Tape 35
Nixon White House Tape 35 (December 26, 1972 – January 12, 1973)
155 conversations · White House Telephone · about 5 hr 30 min of released audio
Featuring Nixon, Colson, Bull, Kennedy, Haldeman
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Charles W. Colson. The interaction served strictly as a logistical request to facilitate direct communication with his aide. No substantive policy discussions or policy-related decisions occurred during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss communication strategy regarding the Vietnam War, emphasizing the need for administration officials to remain silent until concrete developments occur. Nixon stresses that public appearances, such as his attendance at President Truman's funeral, serve to project stability without necessitating political commentary. The two also evaluate the appointment of John A. Scali as UN Ambassador and address concerns regarding Henry Kissinger’s sensitivity to press leaks and his unauthorized meeting with Senator Charles Percy.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed political strategy, focusing on their desire to maintain a confrontational stance toward the media and political opponents. Nixon expressed frustration over Henry Kissinger’s recent meeting with Senator Charles Percy and directed Colson to coordinate efforts to challenge media bias, particularly through Accuracy in Media campaigns and Clay T. Whitehead’s initiatives. The conversation concluded with Nixon emphasizing the importance of staying firm in their PR efforts and shielding Kissinger from unauthorized political interactions during his upcoming break.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to determine if H. R. Haldeman had already departed for California. The brief exchange focused on verifying Haldeman's current whereabouts and availability. Nixon ultimately instructed the operator not to initiate further effort to locate him if he had already left.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to confirm the current status of H. R. Haldeman’s travel arrangements. The operator verified that Haldeman was currently in transit on a flight to California. This brief check-in served to confirm the Chief of Staff's location following his departure.
President Nixon initiates a request for the White House operator to place a telephone call to Special Counsel Charles W. Colson. This brief administrative exchange serves as the logistical bridge to facilitate direct communication between the President and his advisor. No further substantive policy discussions occur during this brief interaction.
President Nixon instructed Charles Colson to contact H.R. Haldeman to express the President's intense displeasure regarding National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger’s recent meeting with Senator Charles Percy. Nixon demanded that Haldeman strictly warn Kissinger to cease all unauthorized media contacts and meetings while in Palm Springs to protect the administration's image and sensitive Vietnam policy negotiations. The President voiced concerns that Kissinger’s personal vanity and social interactions threatened to undermine his authority and leak classified information.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a direct call to George Allen, the head coach of the Washington Redskins. This brief interaction served solely to facilitate communication between the President and the coach. No further business or political discussions were conducted during this exchange.
President Nixon spoke with Washington Redskins head coach George E. Allen to discuss the team's recent playoff victory over the Green Bay Packers and their upcoming game against the Dallas Cowboys. The two men analyzed player injuries, specifically highlighting the team's physical condition and the importance of maintaining an aggressive game plan against the defending champions. Allen shared his motivational strategies, including his efforts to instill a sense of civic obligation in his players and his personal animosity toward the Cowboys organization to inspire team intensity.
President Nixon consulted with a White House operator and staff member Marjorie P. Acker to arrange a secure telephone call with CIA Director Richard M. Helms. The President emphasized strict security protocols, specifying that he only wished to speak with Helms if the communication line was secure and free from risks associated with the Director’s current travel status. The conversation concluded with the President instructing the operator to verify Helms's location and availability before initiating any contact.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to confirm the current whereabouts of CIA Director Richard Helms. Upon learning that Helms was traveling in Mexico and unavailable, Nixon instructed the operator to cancel a previously requested telephone call. This interaction served to update the President's schedule regarding his communication with intelligence leadership.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephonic communication with the White House operator to facilitate contact with his aide, Stephen B. Bull. This exchange serves as a routine administrative request to establish a connection with a staff member. No substantive policy matters or broader political developments are addressed in this short administrative task.
President Nixon directs Stephen B. Bull to urgently coordinate a visit to Nicaragua to provide earthquake relief and demonstrate personal support for the victims. Nixon intends to arrive with a substantial financial donation and plans to visit devastated areas via helicopter while minimizing press fanfare. He instructs Bull to bypass the State Department and senior staff, tasking only Col. Richard T. Kennedy of the NSC with facilitating the logistics for a departure the following morning.
President Nixon initiated a brief administrative call to the White House operator to request a connection to his aide, Stephen B. Bull. This exchange served solely as an operational step to facilitate further communication with his staff. No substantive policy discussions or decisions were addressed during this short request.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull coordinate the logistics for a trip to Nicaragua to provide earthquake relief. Nixon plans to depart immediately following the funeral of Harry S. Truman to ensure he arrives in the region by late afternoon. The President intends to conduct a helicopter tour of the disaster area, interact directly with survivors, and deliver aid.
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 a line of communication with Colson. No further policy discussions or substantive developments occurred during this interaction.
President Nixon and Charles Colson review the administration's public relations efforts following the President's attendance at Harry S. Truman's funeral and ongoing bombing campaigns in North Vietnam. They analyze public sentiment and congressional dynamics, concluding that there is minimal public backlash and strong support within their base. Additionally, they discuss personnel appointments, the potential use of cable television to challenge network media influence, and the positive reception of recent White House and Blair House outreach initiatives.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a call to Henry Kissinger to discuss official matters. He emphasized that the call should not be disruptive, specifically requesting that Kissinger not be interrupted if he was at dinner. Considering the three-hour time difference, Nixon directed the operator to reach out only if the timing was convenient and non-urgent.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the status of ongoing peace negotiations with North Vietnam and the strategic impact of the current U.S. bombing campaign. Kissinger reported on a recent message sent to Hanoi, offering a 36-hour window for a bombing halt conditional upon North Vietnamese confirmation of specific meeting dates. Both men expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the military pressure being applied and agreed to remain firm in their negotiating stance regardless of media criticism or domestic public opinion.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with his personal aide, Stephen B. Bull. This brief administrative exchange served solely to initiate the communication link between the two parties. No substantive policy or political matters were discussed during this brief request for assistance.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull discuss the feasibility of a presidential visit to Managua, Nicaragua, following a devastating earthquake. Nixon expresses his desire to visit refugee centers to demonstrate American concern, while Bull raises concerns that a high-level visit might disrupt ongoing evacuation efforts. Ultimately, the President directs Bull to coordinate with Ambassador Turner Shelton and provide a definitive recommendation the following morning, with a tentative plan to depart on December 29th.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone request for the White House operator to connect him with First Lady Pat Nixon. The call serves as an administrative bridge to facilitate a private conversation between the President and his wife. No substantive policy matters or further actions are recorded during this brief operator interaction.
President Nixon and the White House operator discuss the inability to reach Mrs. Jackson due to her conflicting business appointments. The President acknowledges the situation and instructs the operator to attempt the call again whenever it becomes convenient. No further action or substantive policy decisions occur during this brief exchange.
President Richard Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon coordinated their travel logistics for the upcoming funeral of Harry S. Truman. The President informed his wife of his departure plans, and they mutually agreed upon a revised departure time of 4:30 p.m. to accommodate the First Lady's schedule.
President Nixon initiates a request through the White House operator to place a telephone call to Rex W. Scouten. This brief interaction serves as a logistical bridge to connect the President with a member of his staff. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this brief exchange.
President Nixon consulted with Rex W. Scouten regarding proposed renovations to the White House bowling alley and the president's private living quarters. Nixon directed Scouten to scale back the bowling alley project by eliminating unnecessary plumbing and auxiliary facilities, opting instead to relocate a whirlpool installation to his master bathroom. Scouten was tasked with investigating the feasibility of this plan and providing a revised proposal for the upgrades.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Maurice J. Williams. The President specifically requested that the operator reach Williams at his location in West Virginia. This brief administrative interaction served as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication between Nixon and Williams.
President Nixon calls Maurice J. Williams while he is on vacation to appoint him to lead the U.S. relief mission to Nicaragua following a devastating earthquake. Nixon grants Williams full authority to coordinate all government and volunteer agencies and emphasizes the necessity of managing public relations to highlight the U.S. aid effort throughout Latin America. Williams is instructed to leverage his discretion in staffing and reporting, with Nixon noting that Ambassador Turner B. Shelton would provide local support.
President Nixon calls Marjorie P. Acker to verify the status of a memorandum intended for Raymond K. Price, Jr. Nixon instructs Acker to ensure the document is delivered to Price before he follows up with a phone call to discuss its contents. The exchange confirms that the draft is nearing completion and establishes a specific sequence for the upcoming communication with Price.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a direct call to speechwriter Raymond K. Price, Jr. This brief administrative interaction served as the initiation of a communication link between the President and his staff member. No further substantive policy discussions were recorded during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and speechwriter Raymond K. Price, Jr. discuss the preparation and thematic direction for Nixon's 1973 inaugural address. Nixon emphasizes the need for a brief, uplifting speech—ideally 1,000 to 1,200 words—that avoids a "laundry list" of policy accomplishments in favor of broader themes like national renewal, individual responsibility, and faith in America. He encourages Price to refine the draft further and offers him the use of Camp David as a workspace to facilitate his writing process.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone exchange with the White House operator to request a connection to Stephen B. Bull. The interaction serves as a routine administrative step to facilitate a subsequent conversation with a key staff member. No further policy or substantive matters are discussed during this brief bridge call.
President Nixon instructed his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to coordinate travel and lodging arrangements for speechwriter Raymond K. Price, Jr. at Camp David. Nixon offered Price the option to travel via the presidential helicopter or a subsequent carrier, provided he utilized one of the newer lodges rather than Aspen, Birch, or Dogwood. Additionally, Bull confirmed that First Lady Pat Nixon was prepared for the scheduled departure.
Colonel Richard T. Kennedy informed President Nixon that North Vietnamese negotiators had accepted the proposed schedule for technical meetings on January 2, 1973, and high-level talks between Henry Kissinger and Le Duc Tho on January 8. The two discussed the necessary cessation of U.S. bombing in North Vietnam, ultimately agreeing to move the start date for the halt forward to December 29 to facilitate the diplomatic process. President Nixon directed Kennedy to ensure Kissinger called him immediately to finalize details before his departure for Camp David.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the resumption of Vietnam peace negotiations following North Vietnam's positive response to U.S. overtures. The two agreed on a schedule to announce a bombing halt of North Vietnam and the subsequent restart of technical talks. They also strategized on how to manage the South Vietnamese leadership and domestic U.S. political concerns, ultimately deciding to delay major diplomatic moves, including Vice President Agnew's trip to Saigon, until after the 1973 presidential inauguration to minimize the risk of a public confrontation.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to issue a formal request for Charles W. Colson’s immediate presence. The President directed that Colson report to his Executive Office Building (EOB) office for a consultation. This brief administrative interaction served to facilitate an urgent meeting between the President and his special counsel.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place an outgoing call to his aide, Stephen B. Bull. The President initially misidentified the recipient as the First Lady before correcting himself to specify Bull. This brief administrative exchange served solely to facilitate a direct line of communication between the President and his staff.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull coordinated logistics for a scheduled departure to Camp David. The President instructed Bull to inform First Lady Pat Nixon of a ten-minute delay in their helicopter transport. Additionally, the pair briefly confirmed that Raymond K. Price, Jr. was slated to arrive the following morning.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to initiate a telephone call to Charles W. Colson. This brief communication served solely as a request to connect with his special counsel. No further substantive policy discussions occurred during this brief interaction.
President Nixon and Charles Colson opened their conversation by discussing the Washington Redskins' recent victory and Nixon’s unsuccessful efforts to reach coach George Allen to offer congratulations. The discussion quickly shifted to a professional concern regarding Henry Kissinger, specifically suspecting him of leaking information to New York Times journalist James Reston. Nixon ordered Colson to investigate Kissinger’s communications, including his private telephone records and potential contacts with the press, to confirm the source of the unauthorized disclosures. They agreed on the necessity of monitoring Kissinger more closely to maintain control over national security messaging during delicate Vietnam peace negotiations.
President Nixon called Washington Redskins head coach George Allen to congratulate him on the team's decisive victory over the Dallas Cowboys. The two discussed the importance of team chemistry, the superior work ethic of players like Billy Kilmer and Jack Pardee, and the psychological impact of aggressive play on the opposing team. Nixon encouraged Allen to be open with the press regarding his support, emphasizing his long-standing practice of reaching out to winners.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a follow-up call to George E. Allen at his private residence. The brief exchange served to facilitate direct communication between the President and Allen on New Year's Eve. No further details regarding the nature of the intended discussion were recorded during this short administrative interaction.
President Nixon invited his associate George E. Allen to bring his in-laws, Mr. and Mrs. Felix Lumbrosso, for a private tour of the White House. The President suggested a meeting time of 10:00 a.m. the following day to allow the guests to view the holiday decorations and the remaining Christmas tree. Nixon extended the invitation to include the entire family, including the children.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to initiate an urgent telephone call to his special counsel, Charles W. Colson. The brief exchange served as a direct request for administrative assistance in connecting the President with Colson. No further substantive policy matters or decisions were discussed during this brief connection attempt.
President Nixon and Charles W. Colson coordinated a New Year's Day White House tour for Washington Redskins coach George Allen and his in-laws. They discussed extending invitations to specific players, including Jack Pardee, Billy Kilmer, and Larry Brown, to demonstrate appreciation for Allen's leadership and the team's public support for the administration. Nixon directed Colson to facilitate the visit and provide the coach with flexibility in selecting additional players to accompany his family.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a personal call to his close friend, Charles G. "Bebe" Rebozo. Nixon specified that he only wished to be connected if Rebozo was reachable via standard telephone lines. He explicitly instructed the operator to avoid using radio communication if Rebozo was currently at his retreat in Walker's Cay.
Charles W. Colson contacted Gerald L. Warren to coordinate the administration's public narrative regarding President Nixon’s work ethic on New Year’s Day. Colson emphasized the need to highlight that the President arrived at the office by 7:30 a.m. to focus on inaugural preparations, congressional messages, and staff meetings. Additionally, they clarified that the President’s limited television viewing was specifically to observe First Lady Pat Nixon in the Rose Bowl parade, while also briefly noting that the status of Henry Kissinger’s return from Paris remained unconfirmed.
Charles W. Colson contacts the White House operator to request assistance in communicating his current location to his wife, Patricia Ann Colson. The brief exchange serves as a routine administrative request to facilitate personal communication while Colson is occupied at the White House. No policy matters or substantive political issues are discussed during this call.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a call to his aide, Stephen B. Bull. During this brief interaction, the President also requested that tea be brought to him. No further substantive policy matters were discussed in this exchange.
President Nixon initiated a series of telephone calls through the White House operator to coordinate meetings with key personnel. He requested to speak with Chief Justice Warren E. Burger and subsequently consulted with Stephen B. Bull regarding updates to his daily schedule. The conversation concluded with a request for Gerald L. Warren to be contacted.
President Richard Nixon and Chief Justice Warren E. Burger engaged in a wide-ranging, informal conversation to exchange New Year's greetings and discuss their respective work habits. The two men touched upon judicial philosophy, specifically criticizing the 'redeeming social purpose' standard in pornography rulings, and shared views on the necessity of age limits for congressional members to ensure political renewal. Additionally, they coordinated logistical details for the upcoming 1973 presidential inauguration, confirming that Burger would administer the oath of office for both the President and Vice President.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to request a telephone connection with his personal aide, Stephen B. Bull. This brief administrative exchange served as a routine communication to facilitate further coordination with staff. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this brief request.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull spoke to coordinate administrative details regarding Alexander Haig’s upcoming arrival and the funeral arrangements for baseball legend Roberto Clemente. Nixon inquired about the status of services for Clemente in Puerto Rico, noting that inaugural activities for the new governor had already been curtailed. Bull agreed to gather further information on the memorial service and report back to the President.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an immediate telephone connection with his aide, Stephen B. Bull. This brief administrative interaction served solely as a logistical request to initiate a follow-up conversation with a member of the presidential staff. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this brief exchange.
President Nixon directed his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to facilitate the recording and distribution of a presidential statement regarding the death of baseball icon Roberto Clemente. Nixon specified that the message should be produced as an audio tape intended for radio broadcast rather than television. The President instructed Bull to ensure the distribution occurred promptly once the recording was completed at the White House.
Charles W. Colson coordinated with Press Secretary Gerald L. Warren to expedite the release of an official presidential statement regarding the death of baseball legend Roberto Clemente. The participants prioritized the immediate recording and distribution of the statement to radio outlets, prompting Warren to delay his scheduled press briefing to ensure the tape could be broadcast promptly. The conversation also briefly touched upon humanitarian efforts for Nicaragua earthquake victims and the health of Rose Mary Woods.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to facilitate two administrative actions during his workday. He requested that Special Counsel Charles W. Colson report to his office in the Executive Office Building for a meeting. Additionally, he directed the operator to connect him via telephone with William E. Timmons, the assistant to the president for legislative affairs.
President Nixon and William Timmons coordinated the logistics and protocol for an upcoming bipartisan leadership meeting and a reception for freshman Congressmen scheduled for January 5, 1973. They finalized the attendee list—including the Vice President, the Speaker of the House, and the Chief Justice—and established the receiving line order. Additionally, the President directed that reminder cards be sent to invitees despite the late notice and emphasized that the tone of the reception should remain informal.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with Stephen B. Bull. The brief communication functioned solely as an administrative request to reach specific staff personnel. No substantive policy discussions or decisions occurred during this exchange.
President Nixon instructed Stephen B. Bull to ensure press secretary Gerald Warren did not confirm his attendance at the upcoming Harry S. Truman memorial service, as the President preferred to keep his schedule flexible. Nixon expressed doubt about the necessity of his personal attendance, noting that he had already paid his respects in Independence and preferred to have Vice President Spiro Agnew represent the administration. Additionally, the President confirmed that Agnew should attend the bipartisan leadership breakfast and directed that his meeting with Michael Mansfield be relocated to the Oval Office.
President Nixon initiated a brief telephone communication through the White House operator to contact Stephen B. Bull. The purpose of this call was to facilitate a direct conversation between the President and his aide. No further policy or strategic developments occurred during this administrative exchange.
President Nixon consulted with Stephen B. Bull to clarify the attendance of the Truman family at the upcoming memorial service for former President Harry S. Truman. Bull confirmed that while Bess Truman would not be attending, Margaret Truman Daniel and Clifton Daniel were planning to participate. The President directed Bull to finalize the confirmation of these attendance plans immediately.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a direct communication with his aide, Stephen B. Bull. The brief exchange served as a logistical step to initiate a follow-up conversation with Bull. No further substantive policy matters were addressed during this short administrative interaction.
President Nixon consulted Stephen B. Bull regarding former President Lyndon B. Johnson’s attendance at an upcoming memorial service for Harry S. Truman. Nixon expressed concern that his own attendance was contingent upon Johnson's presence, intending to avoid the event if the former president did not attend. Bull was tasked with confirming Johnson’s status through his former press secretary, Tom Johnson, to finalize Nixon's schedule.
Charles W. Colson contacted Deputy Press Secretary Gerald L. Warren to manage press speculation regarding President Nixon's potential attendance and involvement in the memorial service for Harry S. Truman. The discussion addressed inquiries from reporter Frank Cormier, who erroneously speculated that the President might deliver a eulogy. Colson directed Warren to discourage these rumors and maintain a non-committal stance, as the event was primarily intended for congressional representatives.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to initiate a telephone call to former President Lyndon B. Johnson. This brief exchange served as an administrative request to establish direct communication with the former administration. No further policy discussions or significant developments were captured during this short transmission.
President Nixon and former President Lyndon B. Johnson engaged in a brief, informal New Year's exchange primarily to coordinate their response regarding attendance at the upcoming public memorial service for Harry S. Truman. The two leaders agreed that having already paid their personal respects in Independence, Missouri, both would skip the public Washington event to avoid any appearance of exploitation or diplomatic slight. During the call, Nixon expressed support regarding ongoing Vietnam peace negotiations, while Johnson discussed his recent health struggles following the Cotton Bowl and his appreciation for Nixon's continued friendship.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to initiate a telephone call to Charles W. Colson. This brief administrative interaction served as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication between the President and his special counsel. No further substantive discussion occurred during this recording segment.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed strategies for maintaining Henry Kissinger's morale ahead of his upcoming Paris trip, emphasizing the need to project confidence and solidarity within the administration. They evaluated the political landscape regarding Vietnam negotiations, noting that recent Congressional actions were less threatening than anticipated and potentially useful for public leverage. Additionally, they coordinated a messaging plan for the bipartisan leadership meetings, prioritizing an optimistic economic outlook while preparing to defend the administration against any congressional obstruction.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a personal telephone call to his longtime valet and personal aide, Manolo Sanchez. The President provided specific instructions to reach Sanchez at his residence, stipulating that the attempt should be abandoned if he was not immediately available. This brief exchange highlights the President's informal reliance on White House staff for personal communication.
President Nixon spoke with Senate leaders Mike Mansfield and Hugh Scott to acknowledge the formal reconvening of the Senate and confirm the readiness of both chambers for legislative action. The participants coordinated their upcoming schedules, confirming a Friday morning bipartisan meeting to address domestic policy and an evening reception for new members of Congress. Nixon signaled the imminent transmittal of executive branch nominations and legislative messages to the Senate to facilitate the new session's workflow.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Richard A. Moore. This brief exchange served as a logistical bridge to facilitate a direct communication between the President and his special counsel. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this request.
President Nixon and Richard A. Moore discuss the strategy for managing public and press perceptions regarding the establishment of a memorial fund for Roberto Clemente. Nixon instructs Moore to coordinate a White House staff donation to accompany his own contribution to the fund, ensuring that his personal initiative in the project is clearly communicated to the press. They agree that Moore will brief John Galbreath and reporters on the President's role in spearheading the fund to ensure the administration receives proper recognition for the effort.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place calls to Congressman Gerald R. Ford and Tip O'Neill. The President initiated this outreach in response to previous calls he had received from both men. This communication suggests an effort to engage with key congressional leadership regarding urgent legislative or political business.
President Nixon held a brief, informal call with newly elected Democratic majority leader Tip O'Neill and Representative Gerald Ford to congratulate O'Neill on his new role. The conversation served to coordinate the congressional schedule, specifically confirming upcoming bipartisan breakfast meetings and attendance at both Hale Boggs' funeral and Harry S. Truman's memorial service. Additionally, the President clarified his intent to deliver the State of the Union as a written message rather than a formal address to Congress, citing the proximity to his second inaugural address.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with his special counsel, Charles W. Colson. The brief exchange served purely administrative purposes to initiate official communication between the President and a key advisor. No substantive policy matters or political strategies were discussed during this request.
President Nixon coordinated a follow-up telephone communication with Charles W. Colson through the White House operator. The brief exchange served to confirm Colson's transit status and establish a timeframe for the President to initiate a return call once Colson arrived home. No substantive policy matters were addressed beyond logistical planning for this private consultation.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed strategies for managing congressional relations, particularly the need to maintain pressure on Republican leadership and resist yielding to legislative whining. The conversation centered on the importance of assertive political maneuvering, with both men agreeing that the President should personally encourage House Minority Leader Gerald Ford to replace Robert Wilson as Chairman of the Republican Congressional Campaign Committee to ensure timely recruitment for future elections. Additionally, they reviewed various public relations operations, including efforts to discredit critical media outlets like CBS and the Washington Post, and highlighted the importance of using political leverage against dissenting Republicans like William Saxbe.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with Charles W. Colson. This brief administrative interaction served as a directive to initiate a conversation with his special counsel. The exchange focused exclusively on the logistical request to reach Colson.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss an upcoming meeting with prominent attorney Edward Bennett Williams, who had recently reached out to the White House following Nixon's public support of the Washington Redskins. Nixon instructs Colson to remain firm regarding the Washington Post’s coverage of the Watergate scandal, while using the meeting to signal that the administration expects Williams to distance himself from the paper's personal attacks on the President. The conversation highlights the administration's desire to leverage political pressure and potential investigations into Williams' tax returns to encourage his cooperation or neutrality.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call through the White House operator to contact Charles W. Colson. The exchange is purely logistical, serving as a directive to place the call for the President. No substantive policy matters or further decisions are addressed during this brief operational connection.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss strategy for Colson's upcoming meeting with prominent trial lawyer Edward Bennett Williams. Nixon instructs Colson to flatter Williams by acknowledging his professional reputation before pivoting to confront him about his involvement in the Watergate case, specifically questioning his decision to represent the Democratic National Committee on a personal basis. The pair also coordinate efforts to gauge Williams' true intentions regarding the Watergate investigation and potential hidden motives behind his recent correspondence with the President.
President Nixon directs the White House operator to place a telephone call to Paul L. Martin of U.S. News & World Report. This administrative exchange serves as a request to initiate contact with the journalist for communication purposes. No further substantive discussions occur during this brief connection.
President Nixon called Paul L. Martin to offer personal well-wishes ahead of Martin’s upcoming eye surgery. The conversation served as a brief gesture of support, with Nixon reflecting on Martin’s loyalty and assistance during the 1960 election campaign. The two also engaged in lighthearted banter regarding political affiliations and the influence of Georgetown social circles.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with his aide, Stephen B. Bull. This brief administrative interaction served as a routing request to reach the staff member for an unspecified purpose. No substantive policy discussions occurred during this exchange.
President Nixon contacted Stephen B. Bull to coordinate administrative scheduling details for his late afternoon. Nixon requested a 5:30 p.m. appointment with the barber and confirmed that a meeting with John D. Ehrlichman and H.R. Haldeman was set for 3:00 p.m. These arrangements ensured the President's personal schedule and high-level staff consultations remained organized for the remainder of the day.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an urgent communication. The primary purpose of this brief exchange was to request a telephone connection with his aide, Stephen B. Bull. No further administrative or policy discussions occurred during this brief request.
President Nixon contacted his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to request a scheduling adjustment regarding his upcoming barber appointment. He asked Bull to notify the barber that he would arrive 15 minutes late and would require only a quick service to accommodate the barber's evening departure plans. Bull confirmed he would convey these instructions immediately.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to initiate a telephone call to Charles W. Colson. The brief exchange served as an administrative request to connect the President with his special counsel. No further substantive discussion occurred during this communication.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss strategies to manage public and congressional opinion regarding the ongoing Vietnam peace negotiations. Nixon expresses deep frustration with his senior staff, particularly H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, for failing to effectively rally Republican support and maintain discipline on Capitol Hill. To bolster his position, Nixon directs Colson to have Melvin Laird brief key loyalists—specifically John Rhodes—on the success of the President's recent bombing campaign in bringing North Vietnam back to the negotiating table.
Charles W. Colson contacted his office and Holly Holm to secure transcripts of the President's remarks and Ronald Ziegler's press briefing regarding a bipartisan leadership meeting. Additionally, he instructed Holm to relay authorization to John A. Scali concerning the handling of CIA reports. This directive emphasized that Scali had a "green light" to proceed with his proposal while maintaining strict discretion.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate an urgent communication with his aide, Stephen B. Bull. This brief exchange served exclusively as a logistical step to initiate a follow-up conversation with a key member of the President's staff. No substantive policy matters were addressed during this transition.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to facilitate telephone calls to Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler and aide Stephen B. Bull. The President inquired about Ziegler's availability following his current briefing duties. This brief administrative exchange served to coordinate direct communication with key members of his staff.
President Nixon and the White House operator coordinated the President's schedule regarding Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler’s ongoing press briefing. The President requested that the operator facilitate a follow-up call to aide Stephen B. Bull once the briefing concluded. This brief interaction served primarily as a logistical check to manage the President's communication flow and staff availability.
President Nixon instructed his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to strictly limit press coverage for the upcoming reception for freshman congressmen and bipartisan leadership. He explicitly prohibited photographers, including official White House photographer Ollie Atkins, from documenting the event to ensure it remained a strictly social gathering. The two agreed that coverage would be restricted to a small writing pool, excluding any photographic presence.
President Nixon and Charles Colson coordinate with William E. Timmons regarding the strategy for an upcoming congressional meeting and reception. They instruct Timmons to personally attend the evening gathering of freshman congressmen and bipartisan leadership to manage the optics of the event. Additionally, they discuss the status of a meeting with Mike Mansfield, ultimately deciding to prioritize the evening reception over other scheduling concerns.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a call to Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction served solely as a logistical request to connect the President with his staff member. No further substantive policy matters or decisions were discussed during this exchange.
President Nixon initiates a brief request for the White House operator to place a call to Stephen B. Bull. This administrative exchange serves to facilitate direct communication between the President and his aide. No further policy or substantive matters are addressed during this short connection.
President Nixon consulted with Stephen B. Bull to coordinate his upcoming daily schedule and manage the logistics for an official visit from British Prime Minister Edward Heath. The President provided specific instructions for meetings regarding wage and price controls with George Shultz, John Ehrlichman, and Herbert Stein, while also finalizing details for appointments involving Kenneth Cole, Frederic Malek, and Roy Ash. Regarding the Heath visit, Nixon outlined a preferred itinerary featuring a formal White House dinner followed by informal meetings at Camp David, emphasizing a desire to keep the American delegation strictly limited to avoid unnecessary State Department or bureaucratic presence.
President Nixon directs the White House operator to facilitate a meeting with Colonel Richard T. Kennedy. The President specifically requests that Kennedy relocate to the Executive Office Building to conduct the discussion. This exchange serves as a brief administrative directive to coordinate a secure consultation.
President Nixon initiates a request through the White House operator to place a telephone call to Congressman John J. McFall of California. The conversation is strictly procedural, serving as a brief administrative coordination to connect the President with the legislator. No substantive policy discussions occur during this exchange.
President Nixon receives a brief update from the White House operator regarding the schedule of Congressman John J. McFall. The exchange concludes with the operator offering birthday greetings to the President. No substantive policy matters or administrative decisions are addressed during this short call.
President Nixon telephoned Representative John J. McFall to offer congratulations on his selection as House Democratic Whip. The conversation served primarily as a professional courtesy, briefly bridging the two men's shared California backgrounds and humble upbringings in agriculture. Nixon concluded the brief exchange by expressing interest in meeting McFall again during a future congressional leadership session.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call to connect with Secretary of Housing and Urban Development George W. Romney. The President instructs the White House operator to place the call to Romney's office. No substantive policy discussions occur as the recording captures only the administrative request to establish the connection.
President Nixon consulted with a White House operator to facilitate a telephone call to Lenore L. Romney. The operator provided an update regarding the travel itinerary of Secretary George W. Romney, noting his current presence in Texas and his scheduled arrival in Dallas that evening. Nixon’s primary objective for this interaction was to arrange a direct line of communication with Mrs. Romney.
President Nixon consulted with a White House operator to coordinate a time to reach Lenore Romney and her husband, George Romney. The operator provided updates regarding the couple's separate speaking engagements at the Washington Hilton and their expected arrival times at home. Nixon decided to postpone his outreach, opting to call back later in the day once the Romneys had returned.
President Nixon directs the White House operator to place a telephone call to entertainer Bob Hope. The brief exchange serves as a logistical coordination to facilitate communication between the President and the celebrity. No further policy or administrative matters are addressed during this brief connection.
In this telephone call, Bob Hope offers birthday greetings to President Nixon and discusses his recent USO tours, including positive feedback from military leadership regarding the President’s Vietnam policy. Hope also expresses his disapproval of congressional anti-war efforts and advocates for the President to award Adolph Zukor the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Nixon directs Hope to coordinate the Zukor recommendation with Leonard Garment and agrees to watch Hope’s upcoming television special after being prompted by a reminder.
President Nixon directs the White House operator to facilitate a meeting with speechwriter Raymond K. Price, Jr. The President specifically requests that Price relocate from his current position to the Executive Office Building to consult with him. This brief exchange initiates a direct administrative request for immediate staffing coordination.
President Nixon directed the White House operator to instruct Leonard Garment to contact entertainer Bob Hope. The call was initiated to facilitate the exchange of information that Hope wished to provide to the administration. The operator confirmed the directive and prepared to relay the request to Garment.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone request through the White House operator to be connected with his close friend, Charles G. "Bebe" Rebozo. The brief exchange serves strictly as an administrative call to facilitate this communication. No further policy or substantive matters were discussed during this connection.
President Nixon attempted to reach Charles G. “Bebe” Rebozo through the White House operator to discuss his whereabouts. Upon learning that Rebozo was out of the building, Nixon directed the operator to have Rebozo return the call once he returned. No substantive policy matters were addressed during this brief administrative exchange.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing telephone call to Lenore L. Romney. This brief communication served solely to facilitate the connection for the President's intended conversation with Mrs. Romney. No further substantive discussion or policy decisions took place during this brief administrative exchange.
President Nixon and his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, spoke briefly to exchange birthday greetings and coordinate plans for an upcoming evening party. During the call, they discussed recent positive press coverage of the President by Helen Thomas and Frances Lewine, as well as the family dogs. Additionally, they reached a consensus regarding the departure of Constance Stuart from the White House staff, with Julie confirming that her mother agreed it was time for Stuart to move on to a new position.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to continue attempting to reach Lenore Romney by telephone. The President clarified that the matter was not urgent and requested that the operator try again in approximately thirty minutes. No further policy or substantive business was discussed during this brief administrative check-in.
President Nixon called Lenore Romney to convey his personal praise for a recent speech given by her husband, HUD Secretary George Romney, at a National Association of Home Builders conference. Nixon commended Secretary Romney’s courageous decision to address controversial housing subsidy policies, framing the move as a necessary action for the administration. Lenore Romney acknowledged the effort her husband put into the speech and promised to relay the President’s appreciation upon his return.
H. R. Haldeman coordinates with Stephen B. Bull to arrange an unannounced, low-profile excursion for President Nixon and Charles G. “Bebe” Rebozo on the White House South Grounds. Haldeman specifies strict security and aesthetic requirements for the vehicle, including the necessity of a seat divider and the removal of presidential flags. Additionally, he instructs that Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler be notified of the President's departure only after the thirty-minute drive is already underway.
John D. Ehrlichman and President Nixon discuss the scheduling of brief, purposeful meetings with key administration officials to solidify staffing for the second term. They identify the three new counselors, VA administrator Donald E. Johnson, and CEQ leadership under Russell E. Train as priority contacts to confirm their status and provide direction. Ehrlichman is tasked with coordinating these brief, substantive check-ins through H.R. Haldeman to ensure the administrative transition proceeds efficiently.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to initiate a telephone call to his close friend and confidant, Charles G. "Bebe" Rebozo. The brief exchange served as a request to place the call, though the transcript does not record the subsequent conversation between the two men. This request highlights Nixon's ongoing reliance on Rebozo for personal counsel during his presidency.
President Nixon and his close associate Bebe Rebozo coordinated a brief, private automobile excursion to depart from the White House South Grounds. They agreed to keep the trip secluded, opting not to invite any additional companions, and aimed to conclude their drive in time to return for dinner. This discussion focused solely on the logistics of the President's personal schedule and local travel arrangements.
President Nixon initiates a request for the White House operator to place a telephone call to Colonel Richard T. Kennedy. The brief interaction serves solely to facilitate this communication link. No further policy discussions or significant developments occur during this brief exchange.
President Nixon consulted with Colonel Richard T. Kennedy regarding the status of ongoing Vietnam peace negotiations. The President requested an immediate briefing upon the arrival of the latest report from the recently concluded session, which was expected shortly. They agreed that Kennedy would personally deliver the documentation to the Executive Office Building once it became available to ensure the President remained informed of any developments.
H. R. Haldeman and President Nixon discussed an incoming report and procedural proposal from Henry Kissinger regarding ongoing Vietnam peace negotiations in Paris. Nixon expressed significant concern that if Kissinger traveled to Hanoi to initial the settlement agreement, the President’s subsequent television announcement would appear anticlimactic and diminish his control over the narrative. Consequently, Nixon requested a meeting with Haldeman and Alexander Haig to strategize on timing and procedure, while also briefly touching upon personnel appointments for his second-term administration.
President Nixon spoke with entertainers Dan Rowan and Dick Martin to express his personal appreciation for a humorous birthday skit they produced for his 60th birthday. The discussion included lighthearted banter about the skit’s writer, Paul Keyes, and the President's plan to share the performance with his White House staff. The call concluded with a brief analysis of the upcoming Super Bowl, specifically comparing the strengths of the Miami Dolphins and the Washington Redskins.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Mrs. Muriel Berlin, the wife of Hearst Corporation executive Richard Berlin. The President provided the operator with instructions to locate and connect him with Mrs. Berlin in New York City. The primary purpose of the communication was to facilitate this specific personal or professional outreach.
President Nixon spoke with Muriel "Honey" Berlin to express his personal appreciation for the ties she sent him as a birthday gift, confirming he intends to wear them during future television appearances. The conversation also touched upon the Berlins' social engagements and their mutual support for the President's firm approach toward communist negotiators. Nixon and Berlin briefly discussed the necessity of strength in foreign policy, specifically referencing ongoing Vietnam negotiations and the political situation in the Philippines.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Peter J. Brennan. While Nixon initially identified Brennan as the Secretary of Commerce, he was actually the Secretary of Labor-designate. The call was initiated to establish direct communication with the incoming cabinet member.
President Nixon called Secretary of Labor-designate Peter J. Brennan to offer encouragement and support regarding his ongoing confirmation process. The two discussed the challenges Brennan faced during the hearings, specifically noting the critical coverage by The Washington Post. Nixon dismissed the negative press as predictable, affirming his confidence in Brennan’s ability to navigate the scrutiny successfully.
President Nixon consulted with Col. Richard T. Kennedy regarding the ongoing, complex status of Vietnam peace negotiations and the challenge of managing communications with South Vietnamese leader Nguyen Van Thieu. During the discussion, Nixon also sought to clarify the identity and role of James T. Lynn, whom he identified as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development-designate. The conversation served to coordinate personnel information for the administration while addressing the sensitive diplomatic pressures surrounding North Vietnam.
President Nixon called James T. Lynn to offer encouragement regarding Lynn’s pending cabinet confirmation and to explain the scheduling delay for upcoming cabinet meetings. The two discussed the progress of the confirmation process in the Senate, specifically addressing political hurdles raised by Senator Harrison A. Williams, Jr. They also briefly commended outgoing Secretary George W. Romney for his recent public stance on housing, acknowledging the behind-the-scenes role played by Paul O'Neill at the Office of Management and Budget in shaping that position.
H. R. Haldeman coordinates a meeting between President Nixon and Vice President Spiro Agnew for 11:30 a.m. that morning. The primary objective of the session is to discuss Middle East policy and its strategic connection to ongoing high-visibility negotiations in Paris. Haldeman confirms that the Vice President requires no specific briefing materials, only a general awareness of the current situation.
H. R. Haldeman and William E. Timmons discussed ongoing Congressional Democratic Caucus activities and their potential impact on the Nixon administration. The conversation focused on Democratic efforts to challenge the administration through resolutions regarding the impoundment of funds and the requirement for Cabinet members, such as Secretary of State William P. Rogers, to testify before Congress. Timmons reported on the tense atmosphere within the caucus, including reports of impeachment rhetoric, and committed to providing Haldeman with copies of the caucus resolutions once they became available.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to request a telephone connection to his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox. The conversation served as a brief administrative interaction to facilitate this personal call. No further substantive policy or political discussions took place during this exchange.
President Nixon speaks with Tricia Nixon Cox and Edward R. F. Cox to receive a firsthand account of the performance by the Shenyang Acrobatic Troupe in Washington, D.C. Tricia describes the enthusiastic reception, noting that the audience remained for a lengthy standing ovation despite the presence of heavy security measures. The discussion emphasizes the success of this cultural exchange as a positive tool for U.S.-China relations.
President Nixon directed the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Colonel Richard T. Kennedy. This brief interaction served as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication with the National Security Council staff member. No further policy discussions or substantive developments occurred during this administrative exchange.
President Nixon directed Colonel Richard T. Kennedy to hand-deliver a newly received report regarding Vietnam negotiations to his office in the Executive Office Building. Kennedy acknowledged the directive and confirmed he would bring the sensitive documents over immediately. This brief exchange highlights the priority placed on reviewing diplomatic updates during the critical final stages of the peace process.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone request to connect with his Press Secretary, Ronald L. Ziegler. The interaction serves exclusively as an administrative instruction to the White House operator to facilitate this specific communication. No further substantive policy matters or tactical decisions are addressed during this exchange.
President Nixon directs Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler to join him for an immediate meeting at the Executive Office Building. This brief exchange serves primarily as a logistical coordination for the President to confer with his press secretary in person. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this short transition to an off-site location.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinated a brief meeting to discuss upcoming administrative scheduling. Haldeman signaled his availability to consult with the President following his ongoing discussion with Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler. The conversation concluded with Nixon confirming that Haldeman should proceed to the White House immediately.
President Nixon initiates a call to the White House operator to be connected with Colonel Richard T. Kennedy. This brief interaction serves as a routine administrative request to facilitate a direct line of communication with the National Security Council staffer. No further substantive discussion occurs during this exchange.
President Nixon instructed Col. Richard T. Kennedy to relay specific directives to Henry Kissinger regarding the pending Vietnam settlement agreement. Nixon mandated that any public announcement regarding the deal must be issued by Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler rather than Kissinger. Furthermore, he established a contingency plan where Alexander Haig would remain in Saigon to manage South Vietnamese President Thieu’s resistance, with instructions to delay any announcement if Thieu refused to agree to the terms.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone call to Claude S. Brinegar. The primary purpose of the communication was to connect with Brinegar, who was serving as the Secretary of Transportation-designate at the time. This exchange served as a logistical step in the President’s administrative coordination during the transition period.
President Nixon called Claude S. Brinegar to offer personal well-wishes and encouragement regarding the transition process ahead of the upcoming inauguration and first Cabinet meeting. Brinegar confirmed that his confirmation hearings were progressing smoothly and that his family would be joining him in Washington shortly. The brief exchange served to solidify rapport and ensure the nominee felt supported as he settled into his new role.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place a telephone call to Frederick B. Dent. The purpose of this interaction was to reach Dent, who had been designated as the new Secretary of Commerce. No further substantive policy matters were discussed during this brief administrative exchange.
President Nixon called Secretary-designate Frederick B. Dent to offer encouragement ahead of his upcoming confirmation hearings and to schedule a cabinet meeting following the inauguration. The two discussed the importance of Dent maintaining a firm yet professional demeanor during his questioning. Additionally, Dent reported positive feedback from the business community regarding George P. Shultz’s announcement of Phase III economic policies.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with Secretary of the Treasury George P. Shultz. The conversation was purely administrative in nature, serving as a brief request to initiate communication with the Treasury Secretary. No substantive policy discussions or decisions were recorded during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and George Shultz reviewed the favorable reaction from the business community regarding the administration's new Phase III economic announcement. Shultz reported on his meeting with economist Pierre Rinfret, noting that the policy aligned with Rinfret's previous recommendations. Nixon requested that Shultz convey his personal appreciation to Rinfret and specifically asked that Rinfret continue to publicly support the economic plan.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a call to Chief of Staff H. R. Haldeman. He specified that the operator should prioritize reaching Haldeman but requested that he not be disturbed if he was attending a social engagement. The interaction served as a routine administrative request to facilitate communication with a key advisor.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinate the logistical details and public relations strategy for the President's upcoming departure for Florida. They determine that Nixon will depart on Friday afternoon to work on his inaugural address, a decision intended to minimize press and staff speculation regarding ongoing Vietnam peace negotiations in Paris. By maintaining a routine appearance of working on speeches, the President seeks to avoid revealing his preoccupation with developments involving Henry Kissinger and Alexander Haig.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone call to Colonel Richard T. Kennedy. This brief interaction served solely as a request to initiate official communication with the Colonel. No substantive policy matters or further developments were addressed during this exchange.
President Nixon and Col. Richard T. Kennedy discuss the management of communications regarding a breakthrough in Vietnam peace negotiations, specifically focusing on the upcoming announcement of the cessation of U.S. bombing. They plan a schedule to inform key officials, including Secretary of State William P. Rogers, Secretary of Defense Melvin R. Laird, and Congressional leaders, while ensuring the details remain confidential. The President tasks Col. Kennedy with handling these briefings and coordinating the logistics of Henry Kissinger's and Alexander Haig's movements, including a trip to Saigon and a meeting in Florida.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower. This brief administrative interaction was initiated solely to facilitate direct communication between the President and his daughter. No further policy or political business was discussed during this exchange.
President Nixon speaks with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, to discuss logistics for his upcoming Florida trip and final preparations for his 1973 second-term inauguration. During the call, the President encourages Julie to maintain an oral diary using her new Dictaphone, emphasizing that personal anecdotes and daily observations are historically valuable. Additionally, the President coordinates scheduling with Stephen B. Bull regarding a potential appearance at a Chinese cultural event and confirms his itinerary for the inaugural week.
President Nixon and Ronald Ziegler coordinate strategy for a press interview regarding the President's upcoming 60th birthday. They decide to limit the scope of the discussion to personal birthday reflections and age-related perspectives, specifically avoiding a broader retrospective on his first term or political philosophy. To project an image of a working President, they arrange for the interview to take place in the Executive Office Building rather than the Oval Office, while directing photographer Ollie Atkins to handle the official documentation of the event.
President Nixon contacts the White House operator to request an outgoing call. He specifically asks to be connected to Marjorie P. Acker to conduct official business. No further substantive discussion occurs during this brief administrative exchange.