Nixon White House Tapes › Tape 46
Nixon White House Tape 46 (May 11, 1973 – May 23, 1973)
177 conversations · White House Telephone · about 5 hr 38 min of released audio
Featuring Nixon, Ziegler, Haig, Bull, Buzhardt
President Nixon initiates a telephone call to Canadian Prime Minister Pierre E. Trudeau through the White House operator. The conversation is strictly logistical, with the President directing the operator to connect him with the Prime Minister. No policy discussions occur during this brief interaction, as it serves solely to facilitate the international communication.
Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau called President Nixon to express personal support and sympathy regarding the political fallout from the Watergate scandal. The two leaders discussed the pressures of political life, with Nixon characterizing the scandal as the result of misguided actions by subordinates. Nixon also updated Trudeau on Henry Kissinger’s upcoming trip to Paris to meet with Le Duc Tho, promising to provide the Prime Minister with a follow-up report on the negotiations.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig coordinate the logistics for the arrival of an unidentified individual, likely Lieutenant General Vernon A. Walters, to the Executive Office Building. They confirm the guest's travel progress to ensure a timely meeting. The discussion serves as a brief operational update to facilitate the visitor's imminent arrival.
President Nixon initiates a brief request for the White House operator to place a telephone call to Stephen B. Bull. This exchange serves as an administrative bridge to facilitate direct communication with a key staff member. No further policy or substantive discussion occurs during this short connection.
President Nixon instructed Stephen B. Bull to coordinate with Alexander Haig's office regarding the schedule of Lieutenant General Vernon A. Walters. Upon learning that Walters was already present at the White House, Nixon directed Bull to escort the General to his office for a meeting. This interaction facilitated an immediate private consultation between the President and Walters.
Alexander M. Haig, Jr. advised President Nixon against meeting with Lieutenant General Vernon A. Walters to avoid attracting undue attention from investigators or the press. Nixon promptly accepted this counsel, acknowledging the potential liability such a meeting would create. Consequently, the two agreed to meet privately instead to discuss the matter further.
President Nixon, Rose Mary Woods, and Alexander Haig confer to locate missing files once belonging to J. Edgar Hoover that were reportedly sent to the White House following the departures of H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. Woods clarifies that the sensitive materials were never delivered to her office or placed in her custody. Consequently, Haig agrees to investigate the matter further to determine the actual location of the files.
President Nixon initiated a call through the White House operator to contact Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The brief exchange served as a logistical bridge to facilitate direct communication with his Chief of Staff. No substantive policy matters were discussed, as the interaction focused solely on placing the outgoing connection.
President Nixon instructed Alexander Haig to direct J. Fred Buzhardt to adopt a more supportive and optimistic tone when communicating with H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman regarding their legal strategy. Nixon emphasized that Buzhardt must project confidence that the Watergate situation is manageable to counter the anxiety caused by Leonard Garment’s more alarming counsel. Additionally, the two discussed John Connally’s potential leave of absence from his law firm, with Nixon approving the move to address concerns regarding professional conflicts of interest.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection to his former Chief of Staff, H. R. Haldeman. This brief administrative interaction served as the necessary logistical step to initiate a private conversation with Haldeman following his resignation. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this request for an operator-assisted call.
President Nixon directs H. R. Haldeman to proceed with the establishment of the Nixon Foundation, emphasizing the project's critical role in securing the President's legacy and managing his archives. They discuss utilizing the foundation to facilitate the writing of the administration's history, potentially by Henry Kissinger, while providing the President access to his records, including the White House tapes, without direct personal involvement. The conversation concludes with Nixon instructing Haldeman to continue his scheduled engagement with the FBI.
President Nixon initiates a request through the White House operator to place an outgoing telephone call to his aide, Stephen B. Bull. This brief administrative interaction serves solely to facilitate direct communication between the President and a member of his staff. No substantive policy discussions or decisions are recorded during this brief connectivity exchange.
President Nixon directed Stephen B. Bull to move the signing ceremony for the Rural Electrification and Telephone Program to 3:30 p.m. in the Executive Office Building to accommodate his departure for Camp David. Emphasizing privacy, Nixon strictly forbade any press coverage or on-the-record status for his travel to Camp David, citing his frustration with being followed by press vehicles. He explicitly ordered Bull to ensure that all future presidential drives remain off the record.
President Nixon utilized the White House operator to initiate a telephone call to Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The primary purpose of this brief exchange was to facilitate communication between the President and his Chief of Staff. No substantial policy or strategic discussions took place during this administrative connection.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss the urgent search for specific FBI files and a sensitive memorandum previously handled by John Ehrlichman. Nixon expresses concern over the potential inclusion of damaging material regarding Henry Kissinger within these documents, insisting that the damaging memo be retrieved to facilitate a proactive political offensive. Additionally, Haig confirms he will provide Fred Buzhardt with instructions for upcoming interviews with H.R. Haldeman, Ehrlichman, and Charles Colson.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Alexander M. Haig, Jr. This brief interaction served as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication between the President and his Chief of Staff. No further substantive policy discussions occurred during this specific exchange.
President Nixon directs Alexander Haig to prioritize the urgent location of a specific document, insisting that his staff conduct a comprehensive search of the White House. Emphasizing a shift toward a public relations strategy, Nixon instructs Haig to leak the document to the press before it is submitted to the judge handling the case. This exchange highlights the administration’s focus on controlling the public narrative regarding Watergate-related materials.
Alexander M. Haig, Jr. informs President Nixon that he has located a large volume of sensitive FBI files related to Watergate, estimated at three feet of material, stored in a vault. Haig expresses the need to personally screen these documents to ensure security and prevent unauthorized access. The two agree to meet briefly at the White House before the President departs for Camp David to discuss the matter further.
President Nixon initiated a brief telephone communication through the White House operator to place an outgoing call. The primary purpose of the interaction was to facilitate contact with Stephen B. Bull. No substantive policy discussions or complex administrative decisions occurred during this brief operator-assisted connection.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The conversation served solely as a brief administrative request to facilitate direct communication with his staff. No further substantive policy matters or tactical decisions were discussed during this short exchange.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discussed upcoming public appearances and the administration's strategic response to the ongoing Watergate scandal. The conversation focused on preparations for H. R. Haldeman’s grand jury testimony, the status of John Dean’s potential immunity, and the timeline for William Ruckelshaus's public statement regarding White House documents. Nixon emphasized the importance of maintaining a normal presidential schedule to project stability while coordinating a bipartisan effort for a new Commission on Federal Election Reform.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call through the White House operator to contact Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The primary purpose of the communication is to establish a connection with his Chief of Staff. No further substantive discussion occurs during this short exchange beyond the placement of the call.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig held a strategic discussion regarding the administration's defensive posture in the ongoing Watergate investigation. They reviewed the status of key witnesses, including L. Patrick Gray’s successor, FBI files, and the expected testimony of figures like John Dean and Vernon Walters. Furthermore, Nixon proposed declassifying decade-old national security records, such as those related to the Bay of Pigs and the death of Ngo Dinh Diem, as a diversionary tactic to generate favorable controversy and shift public focus away from Watergate.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing telephone call to Lawrence M. Higby. This brief administrative interaction served as a formal bridge to connect the President with a member of his staff. No substantive policy discussions or decisions were documented during this short communication.
President Nixon and Lawrence Higby discuss efforts to verify whether any presidential memoranda were sent to John W. Dean III regarding Watergate. Higby confirms that secretaries Beverly J. Kaye and Pat McKee have independently denied typing such documents, and Nixon directs him to further verify this by contacting Terry L. Decker. Nixon expresses strong frustration regarding the scrutiny of his past files, insisting that he never authored memoranda on Watergate-related matters.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Lawrence M. Higby. This interaction served as an administrative request to connect the President with a member of his staff. The conversation concluded once the operator initiated the connection to Higby.
President Nixon and Lawrence M. Higby discuss the status of a records search, specifically concerning potential memoranda related to John W. Dean III and files held by Rose Mary Woods. Higby reports that an initial review of the materials yielded no significant findings, prompting the President to urge continued diligence in the search. The conversation concludes with Nixon preparing to attend a Citizens Medal presentation for Mrs. Roberto Clemente while awaiting further updates.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to connect him with his personal aide, Stephen B. Bull. This brief administrative call served solely to facilitate communication between the President and his staff. No further substantive policy matters or tactical decisions were recorded during this connection.
President Nixon consulted with his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to adjust his late-afternoon schedule regarding an upcoming meeting with Nelson Rockefeller. To accommodate additional administrative tasks, the President pushed the start time of the meeting back to 4:15 p.m. in the Oval Office. Nixon also confirmed that Rockefeller would be accompanied by former Delaware Governor Russell W. Peterson.
President Nixon requested that the White House operator connect him to Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. This brief administrative interaction served as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication between the President and his primary spokesperson during the height of the Watergate investigation. No further substantive discussion occurred between the President and the operator.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the public reception of William D. Ruckelshaus's statement regarding FBI files recovered from John Ehrlichman's safe. They aim to frame the narrative to demonstrate that the White House was transparent rather than obstructive in handling these documents. Additionally, they monitor developments regarding John Dean's files currently under judicial review and prepare for upcoming testimony from General Vernon A. Walters.
Alexander Haig briefed President Nixon on the handling of sensitive documents and the impending testimony of Lieutenant General Vernon Walters regarding the Watergate scandal. Haig coordinated a meeting with J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. to prepare for Walters’s appearance before the Senate Armed Services Committee, aiming to manage the committee’s growing desire to distance themselves from the controversy. The participants agreed to discuss further details in person to avoid continued exposure over the telephone.
President Nixon and Leonard Garment, coordinated by Ronald Ziegler, discuss the administration's frustration with the Senate Watergate Committee's delay in addressing false allegations that the President stole $1 million in campaign funds. Garment reports on his unsuccessful efforts to reach Senators Sam Ervin and Howard Baker, while Nixon aggressively instructs him to pressure Fred Thompson for swifter action. They conclude that the committee's inability to promptly deny these claims provides the White House with a strategic political advantage.
Ronald L. Ziegler and Leonard Garment coordinate a strategy to manage negative press coverage concerning the Watergate investigation. They discuss an individual's attempt to contact Senator Sam Ervin and contemplate demanding a public apology if the critical reports persist. The participants establish a secure communication channel via a specific White House telephone line to finalize their response after further information is gathered.
Leonard Garment and Ronald Ziegler discuss coordinating a response to an unfounded news story circulating via United Press International regarding the Ervin Committee. Garment reports that Senator Howard Baker denied the story's validity and clarifies that investigator Carmine Bellino is in Washington rather than California. The two agree that the committee must expedite their public rebuttal of the claims to align with the White House briefing schedule, with Ziegler emphasizing the need for a more urgent administrative response.
Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler contacts the White House operator to request an urgent telephone connection with Lawrence M. Higby, a key aide to H.R. Haldeman. The call serves as a brief administrative bridge to facilitate direct communication between Ziegler and Higby. No substantive policy discussions or major decisions occur during this short exchange, as it is strictly logistical in nature.
Ronald Ziegler and Lawrence Higby discuss H. R. Haldeman’s recent grand jury testimony regarding the Watergate scandal, specifically his interactions with the CIA and General Vernon Walters. Higby conveys Haldeman’s account of the testimony and his current mood, while noting that Alexander Haig and J. Fred Buzhardt are coordinating efforts to verify Walters’s statements. The two also agree to shield the President from involvement in issues surrounding the Nixon Foundation and Robert Finch.
President Nixon directs the White House operator to place an urgent call to Leonard Garment. The President specifically requests that Press Secretary Ron Ziegler be connected to the conversation as well. This exchange facilitates communication regarding arrangements for an upcoming dinner.
President Nixon, Ron Ziegler, and Leonard Garment coordinate a confrontational strategy to force the Ervin Committee to issue a public retraction regarding unsubstantiated allegations against the President. Nixon expresses significant frustration with the perceived lack of aggression from his legal team, specifically criticizing Howard Baker's response to the committee's reporting. The President directs Garment to demand an immediate apology and threaten the committee's overall credibility to ensure they do not successfully propagate false charges.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. This brief administrative interaction served as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication with a key advisor during a period of intense public scrutiny. No further substantive discussion occurred between the President and the operator.
President Nixon directs Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler to launch a public offensive against the Senate Watergate Committee, specifically targeting Senators Sam Ervin and Howard Baker. Nixon instructs Ziegler to denounce the committee for its failure to formally repudiate a recent Santa Ana Register story, arguing that the committee has essentially 'indicted itself' through its inaction. He mandates that Ziegler use his upcoming press briefing to demand a formal retraction, an apology, and the firing of the responsible committee staffer.
President Nixon initiates a request through the White House operator to be connected with his Press Secretary, Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction serves solely as a logistical bridge to facilitate official communication between the President and his primary spokesperson. No further substantive policy matters are addressed during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discussed the White House's strategy to discredit the Ervin Committee regarding recent leaked reports about presidential finances. Nixon instructed Ziegler to adopt an aggressive, televised stance during his upcoming press briefing, demanding that the committee retract their statements, apologize, and initiate an internal investigation leading to the firing of the responsible staff members. By painting the committee as irresponsible and biased, the President aimed to force the Senate investigators into a defensive position before their scheduled hearings began.
President Nixon initiates a request to the White House operator to place a telephone call to National Security Advisor Henry A. Kissinger. This brief administrative interaction serves as the preliminary step for the President to establish direct communication with Kissinger. No substantive policy discussions occur during this exchange.
The President consults with a White House operator regarding the availability of Henry Kissinger, who is currently attending an event at the Kennedy Center. Upon determining that Kissinger should not be disturbed, Nixon instructs the operator to place a call to Lawrence M. Higby instead. This exchange reflects the President’s process for managing communications and personnel during his schedule.
President Nixon consulted with a White House operator to facilitate contact with Lawrence M. Higby. The primary objective was to coordinate a follow-up telephone call once Higby arrived at his residence. The President requested that the operator reach out to him personally as soon as Higby became available.
President Nixon directed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Leonard Garment, who was serving as acting White House Counsel at the time. This brief exchange served solely as a logistical request to facilitate communication between the President and his advisor. No substantive policy discussions or decisions occurred during this brief interaction.
President Nixon directed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Herbert G. Klein, then serving as the Director of Communications for the Executive Branch. The brief interaction served as a logistical bridge to facilitate direct communication between the President and a key member of his administration. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this initial exchange.
President Nixon and Leonard Garment discussed the upcoming Federal Election Reform speech, specifically focusing on how to frame campaign finance proposals and secure bipartisan support. They debated the merits of including specific policy suggestions, such as limits on cash contributions, versus delegating those tasks to a reform commission. Additionally, Nixon directed Garment to ensure Press Secretary Ron Ziegler took a aggressive public stance against the Ervin Committee regarding ongoing financial allegations, aiming to discredit the committee's credibility.
President Nixon and aide Lawrence Higby discuss the need for H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to publicly refute any implication that their past actions involving the CIA and national security matters constituted a Watergate cover-up. The President emphasizes that his top advisors must be assertive and non-apologetic regarding their efforts to investigate leaks, specifically concerning the 'Plumbers' operation and Daniel Ellsberg. Additionally, they discuss strategy for addressing negative stories regarding the President's finances, emphasizing a planned aggressive pushback against the Ervin Committee.
President Nixon and Herbert G. Klein discuss a defamatory Associated Press story falsely alleging that campaign funds were used to purchase property in San Clemente. Nixon expresses outrage at the report, emphasizing that it is libelous and demanding a retraction while strictly advising Klein against disclosing additional details that might invite further press scrutiny. They agree that Klein will confront the reporter, James W. Gallagher, and use his upcoming speech to criticize the press and the Ervin Committee for their role in circulating irresponsible allegations.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing telephone call to Secretary of the Treasury George P. Shultz. The conversation consisted solely of this administrative request to initiate contact. This brief exchange served as a precursor to a substantive discussion between the President and the Secretary.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to have Secretary of the Treasury George P. Shultz return his call. The President emphasized that while the matter was not urgent, the conversation needed to occur before 1:30 p.m. This brief exchange served as a logistical coordination to facilitate direct communication between the two officials.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing telephone call to his Chief of Staff, Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The brief exchange served as a routine administrative request to establish a direct line of communication with Haig. No further policy or substantive matters were discussed during this connection attempt.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig coordinate the logistics of a briefing or document delivery involving a third party who is currently in transit to an office. The brief exchange focuses on scheduling the arrival of materials to the President within approximately 20 minutes. No major policy decisions are reached, as the conversation serves primarily as a status update on administrative communication.
President Nixon utilized the White House operator to place an outgoing telephone call to his Chief of Staff, Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The primary purpose of this brief communication was to facilitate a direct connection between the President and his senior advisor. No substantive policy discussions or decisions were recorded during this brief administrative exchange.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss the ongoing Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the recent testimony of Vernon Walters regarding CIA involvement. The conversation centers on managing potential incriminating notes held by John Ehrlichman and the risks posed by John Dean's anticipated testimony, which may implicate Charles Colson. Nixon emphasizes the need for legal counsel J. Fred Buzhardt to consult with Colson immediately to coordinate a strategy for handling these developments.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call through the White House operator to contact Stephen B. Bull. The purpose of the communication is to request a connection to the Stable, the designated code name for the White House Military Office. No substantive policy discussions or policy-related decisions occurred during this brief request for a connection.
President Nixon directed his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to reschedule a meeting with John B. Connally from late afternoon to the following morning at 10:00 am. Nixon cited a cold and the need to prepare for an upcoming state dinner honoring Haile Selassie as the reasons for the change. Bull confirmed that he would arrange the adjustment to the President's schedule.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call to Secretary of the Treasury George P. Shultz through the White House operator. The conversation serves solely as a logistical request to establish a direct line of communication with the Secretary. No further policy discussions or substantive developments occur during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and George Shultz discussed adjustments to the administration's minimum wage bill to facilitate progress in congressional committee negotiations. They agreed to drop the proposed youth differential for 18 and 19-year-olds, implement a notification-based policing process for 16 and 17-year-olds, and concede on the coverage of state and local employees. Additionally, they reaffirmed the decision to avoid concessions on common-situs picketing, agreeing that Secretary of Labor Peter Brennan should lead the minimum wage negotiations to allow him to claim a legislative victory.
President Nixon initiates a call to the White House operator to be connected with Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The brief exchange serves as a procedural request to establish communication with his Chief of Staff. No substantive policy matters or decisions were discussed during this initial operator contact.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss ongoing Watergate pressures, focusing on the management of sensitive documents, potential witnesses, and the search for a new Special Prosecutor. They review the strategy for Lt. Gen. Vernon Walters’s testimony, emphasizing the assertion of national security privilege to withhold classified intelligence documents. Additionally, Nixon justifies the use of wiretaps to address leaks within the National Security Council and strategizes with Haig on how to maintain administrative operations while navigating these unfolding scandals.
President Nixon initiates a call to the White House operator to be connected with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction serves as a functional request to establish communication with a key staff member. No substantive political or policy discussions occur during this short exchange.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the status of materials related to John W. Dean III held in a secure container. The President expresses impatience regarding the delayed inspection of these documents and instructs Ziegler to verify their current accessibility. Ziegler commits to immediately checking the progress of the review and reporting back to the President.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discussed White House media strategy and the ongoing developments regarding Watergate and John W. Dean, III. Ziegler reported that the press was becoming increasingly skeptical of Dean's credibility, and the pair agreed on the need for daily, coordinated briefings among senior staff to present a more proactive, less defensive public posture. They also reviewed the status of sealed documents held by Judge John J. Sirica, with Nixon instructing Ziegler to have J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. meet with him to further coordinate their response.
J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. requested that the White House operator connect him to Doug Parker for an outgoing telephone call. This brief administrative interaction served as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication between legal staff. No substantive policy discussions or policy-related decisions occurred during this brief exchange.
J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. and Doug Parker engaged in a brief check-in regarding the status of communication with Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen. The primary purpose of the call was to ascertain whether Parker had received any updates or outreach from Petersen. No substantive developments occurred, as Parker confirmed he had not yet heard from him and agreed to notify Buzhardt upon receiving any further information.
Doug Parker and J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. coordinated the delivery of sensitive documents belonging to John W. Dean, III to Assistant Attorney General Earl J. Silbert. The discussion addressed the reasons for a delay in the transfer and confirmed plans to inspect and copy the materials once they reached Silbert’s office. To resolve the lingering issues causing the holdup, Buzhardt committed to placing an immediate follow-up call to Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen.
President Nixon initiates a request through the White House operator to be connected with speechwriter and advisor Raymond K. Price, Jr. The brief communication serves primarily as a logistical step to facilitate a direct conversation between the President and his staff member. No substantive policy matters or further details were recorded during this brief exchange.
President Nixon consulted with speechwriter Raymond K. Price, Jr. to refine a draft for an upcoming radio address concerning campaign reform. The President instructed Price to adjust the language regarding constitutional amendments, specifically requesting a more neutral framing for the proposal of a single six-year presidential term while maintaining a firm stance on extending terms for the House of Representatives. These revisions were intended to ensure the speech prioritized clear policy positions while downplaying less feasible constitutional changes.
President Nixon initiates a call through the White House operator to reach Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief exchange serves as a logistical bridge to facilitate a conversation with his primary spokesperson during a period of intense scrutiny regarding the Watergate scandal. No policy decisions or substantive discussions occur between the President and the operator.
President Nixon consulted with a White House operator to determine the whereabouts of Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. Upon learning that Ziegler had already left his office and was heading home, the President requested that a message be left for him to return the call. This brief exchange served primarily to facilitate communication between the President and his senior staff late in the evening.
President Nixon directs the White House operator to place an urgent telephone call to J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr., his special counsel handling legal matters related to the Watergate investigation. The brief exchange serves as a logistical bridge to facilitate direct communication with Buzhardt regarding ongoing legal defense strategies. No substantive discussion occurs during this initial connection request, as the President is merely establishing the line.
President Nixon and J. Fred Buzhardt discussed the contents of sensitive documents removed by John Dean, which Buzhardt identified as materials related to the Huston Plan concerning domestic intelligence collection rather than the Watergate scandal. Fearing that these classified records regarding U.S. intelligence capabilities could be leaked if released to the Ervin Committee, they strategized on methods to suppress the documents through the court system. Buzhardt was tasked with finalizing his identification of the materials and briefing Alexander Haig to ensure the administration was prepared for potential disclosure.
President Nixon directs the White House operator to place an outgoing call to J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr., a member of his legal defense team. This brief administrative exchange serves as a transition to a private consultation regarding the ongoing Watergate investigations. No substantive policy discussions or decisions occur during this brief interaction.
President Nixon and White House counsel J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. discussed the identification and control of sensitive internal intelligence documents provided by John W. Dean, III. Buzhardt confirmed that he had secured materials including memos from Dean to John Mitchell and Tom Huston to H.R. Haldeman regarding 1970 intelligence operations. To mitigate potential exposure, the administration moved to secure the documents within the Justice Department and implement strict oversight for their storage.
President Nixon initiates a brief request for the White House operator to connect him to his Press Secretary, Ronald L. Ziegler. The conversation serves strictly as a logistical administrative step to facilitate a direct communication line between the President and his key communications aide. No substantive policy matters or further details were discussed during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss a strategy to address potential inquiries regarding the administration's involvement in the Watergate break-in investigation. Nixon instructs Ziegler to maintain that he directed a comprehensive inquiry into the involvement of various agencies, specifically to determine if the CIA played a role. Additionally, Nixon directs Ziegler to gather data on John W. Dean III's past access to FBI reports and staff briefings to serve as a defensive counter-narrative.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call through the White House operator to contact J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. The exchange serves primarily as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication with his legal counsel. No substantive policy or political discussions occur during this short connection process.
President Nixon consulted with White House counsel J. Fred Buzhardt regarding his recent meeting with Charles Colson and the ongoing evaluation of sensitive documents provided by John W. Dean. Buzhardt confirmed that the materials matched the President's description but noted they presented significant legal or political complications. The two agreed that Buzhardt should take the necessary time to complete his assessment and prepare a formal report for the President.
President Nixon requested that the White House operator place an outgoing telephone call to J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr., his legal counsel. The brief interaction served as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication with Buzhardt regarding matters related to the ongoing Watergate investigations. No substantive policy discussions occurred during this exchange.
President Nixon initiated this brief exchange to coordinate an in-person meeting with White House counsel J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. The President requested that Buzhardt come to the Oval Office immediately to discuss urgent matters. This logistical communication facilitated a follow-up session between the two key figures during the height of the Watergate investigation.
President Nixon initiates a request for the White House operator to connect him with General Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The call serves as a brief administrative bridge to facilitate direct communication with his Chief of Staff. No further substantive policy matters are addressed in this short exchange.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss the urgency of consulting Tom C. Huston regarding his knowledge of sensitive matters. Nixon instructs Haig to have J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. contact Huston immediately to consolidate information and potentially preempt additional calls. The conversation concludes with a plan for a follow-up briefing in thirty minutes.
Special Counsel to the President J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. contacted Robert C. Mardian to discuss the activities of an interagency committee formed to coordinate domestic intelligence. Buzhardt sought to clarify the committee's scope and verify whether it had conducted any surreptitious entries or illegal operations, specifically in light of documents released by the court related to John Dean. Mardian denied that the committee performed any covert actions, asserting it functioned only as an assessment group, and recommended that Buzhardt interview Bernie Welles to confirm these details.
President Nixon requested that the White House operator connect him with his Press Secretary, Ronald L. Ziegler. This brief administrative exchange served as the precursor to a subsequent discussion between the President and his top spokesperson. No substantive policy matters or decisions were finalized during this specific interaction.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the strategy for countering potential congressional revelations regarding the Huston Plan during the Watergate investigation. Nixon emphasizes the narrative that while he initially approved the plan as a contingency measure, he quickly revoked it at the urging of J. Edgar Hoover and the Attorney General, ensuring no illegal actions were actually implemented. They conclude that if John Dean attempts to use the plan to implicate the White House, they will counter by highlighting its non-implementation and framing the initiative as a brief, discontinued attempt to address civil unrest.
President Nixon initiated a call through the White House operator to contact Secretary of the Treasury George P. Shultz. The conversation was purely administrative, serving as the bridge to connect the President with his Treasury Secretary for an upcoming discussion. No policy matters or substantive decisions were addressed during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and George P. Shultz discuss growing public concern over inflation and declining confidence in the administration's economic policies, as highlighted by a recent Harris poll. Nixon directs Shultz to convene a meeting with key economic advisors—including John T. Dunlop, Herbert G. Stein, and Roy L. Ash—to re-evaluate the potential for a price freeze. While acknowledging the political pressure to act, Nixon emphasizes that he will not pursue a freeze if it is deemed ineffective or economically damaging.
President Nixon initiated a call through the White House operator to connect with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The conversation served as a brief administrative bridge intended to facilitate direct communication between the President and his primary spokesperson. No substantive policy discussions or decisions occurred during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler coordinated an upcoming telephone conversation with journalist Howard K. Smith to express appreciation for Smith's recent editorial coverage. Nixon specifically sought to thank Smith for his balanced commentary regarding the history of national security wiretapping, which drew comparisons to the Roosevelt administration. They agreed that while the President remains open to speaking with Smith, such contact should be deferred until the active grand jury processes have concluded.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to connect him with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The call served as an administrative request to facilitate communication between the President and his senior staff. No further discussion occurred during this brief exchange as the operator acted on the President's directive.
President Nixon directed Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler to expedite research into the medical history of Senator Thomas F. Eagleton, specifically regarding potential psychiatric treatment in New York. Expressing frustration with the pace of the investigation, Nixon questioned the staffing of the research operation and insisted on immediate verification of the facts. Ziegler confirmed that the Allin group was currently handling the assignment.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction served as a logistical bridge to facilitate direct communication between the President and his top spokesperson. No further policy or substantive matters were discussed during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Ronald Ziegler discussed efforts to verify the medical history of Thomas F. Eagleton, specifically investigating potential records at Barnes Hospital and the Mayo Clinic. Ziegler confirmed that the administration had no involvement in the medical record searches, aiming to reassure J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr., who was concerned about possible leaks or exposure. Nixon instructed Ziegler to immediately relay these findings to Buzhardt to resolve his concerns.
President Nixon initiates a telephone call through the White House operator to reach his legal counsel, J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. The brief exchange serves as a logistical bridge to connect the President with his attorney amidst the unfolding Watergate investigations. No substantive policy matters are discussed, as the interaction is limited to facilitating this official communication.
President Nixon consulted with J. Fred Buzhardt regarding the collection of affidavits from various officials to document that the Huston Plan was never fully implemented. Nixon emphasized the urgency of gathering these testimonies to prepare a defense strategy, while also discussing media efforts to highlight how upcoming Ervin Committee hearings might jeopardize ongoing legal trials. Finally, the President and Ronald Ziegler discussed countering allegations regarding a past political opponent's medical history, with Nixon demanding that negative information about the source of these rumors be leaked to the press to discredit the accuser.
President Nixon initiates a routine telephone connection through the White House operator to speak with First Lady Pat Nixon. The call serves as a brief personal communication between the President and his wife. No substantive policy matters or administrative developments are discussed during this brief exchange.
President Richard Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon discussed plans for the President to take a brief break from his official duties. The primary purpose of the call was to coordinate a dinner engagement with their daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower. The President agreed to the outing, pending his ability to leave the White House later that evening.
President Nixon requested that the White House operator connect him to Alexander M. Haig, Jr. via channel 8. This brief exchange served solely as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication with his Chief of Staff. No further substantive policy matters were discussed during this specific connection process.
President Nixon consulted with Alexander Haig regarding his afternoon schedule, specifically his plan to visit Julie Nixon Eisenhower. Haig provided an update on Henry Kissinger’s optimistic report regarding ongoing diplomatic efforts. The two agreed to meet immediately afterward to discuss guidance for the President’s upcoming speech.
Rose Mary Woods and President Nixon coordinate the arrival logistics for Charles G. “Bebe” Rebozo. They discuss his anticipated landing time at the airport and his expected arrival at the White House. The President explicitly instructs that Rebozo be transported to Julie Nixon Eisenhower’s residence upon his arrival.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call to the White House operator to be connected with J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. The purpose of the call is to establish contact with his legal counsel for ongoing administrative or legal matters. No further substantive discussion occurs during this short exchange as the President waits for the connection to be completed.
President Nixon and J. Fred Buzhardt discussed the status of their investigation into the 1970 "Huston Plan" ahead of potential scrutiny by the Ervin Committee. Buzhardt reported that records and staff recollections indicate the plan was a contingency study that was effectively abandoned following objections from J. Edgar Hoover. Nixon emphasized the importance of gathering documentary evidence and contextualizing the plan within the intense civil unrest of the era, such as the Kent State protests and threats against his administration. The two agreed on a strategy to document that the proposal never proceeded to implementation, intending to use this narrative to defend the administration’s actions.
President Nixon requested that the White House operator connect him with Alexander M. Haig, Jr. via telephone. This brief interaction served solely as a procedural step to facilitate communication with his Chief of Staff. No further substantive discussion occurred during this specific exchange.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discussed the negative public perception surrounding the opening days of the Ervin Committee hearings and the ongoing witness testimony. They reviewed the progress of J. Fred Buzhardt’s document preparations, setting a goal to have materials finalized by Sunday. Additionally, Haig provided an update on Elliot Richardson’s confirmation process and they coordinated the agenda for an upcoming Cabinet meeting intended to boost administration morale.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to connect him with J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr., who was serving as Special Counsel to the President at the time. This brief interaction served as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication with legal counsel amid the escalating Watergate investigation. No further substantive discussion was captured beyond the request to initiate the call.
President Nixon and J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. discuss the ongoing gathering of affidavits and records related to the Huston Plan in preparation for potential defense strategies. The conversation also addresses the recent performance of witnesses before the Ervin Committee, with Nixon dismissing the committee's effectiveness and encouraging Buzhardt to focus on legal preparations rather than media coverage. Buzhardt reports on the status of various individuals, including Tom C. Huston and William C. Sullivan, who are assisting in the documentation process.
President Nixon initiates a call through the White House operator to reach Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The conversation serves as a brief logistical bridge to establish direct communication with his primary spokesperson during the escalating Watergate crisis. No substantive policy discussions or decisions are recorded in this short exchange.
President Nixon and Ronald Ziegler discussed strategies for managing the fallout of the Watergate scandal and the Ervin Committee hearings. They emphasized the importance of maintaining a cold, objective assessment of the political landscape and public perception to preserve the administration's base of support. Nixon directed Ziegler to ensure staff changes were finalized immediately and stressed the need for a calculated, unified response to the ongoing pressures from key figures like John Dean.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction served as a logistical attempt to connect the President with his communications staff. No substantive policy matters or major developments were addressed during this short exchange.
President Nixon and Ronald Ziegler discussed the White House's strategy for navigating the ongoing Watergate scandal, emphasizing the need for a cold, calculated approach to defend the institution of the presidency rather than reacting to daily media developments. They reviewed a briefing held earlier that evening with Alexander Haig and J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr., affirming that staff should focus on their core responsibilities rather than self-interest or minor distractions like John Dean's media appearances. The President reiterated his commitment to standing his ground, noting that they must continue to mobilize political support while effectively managing the aftermath of removing H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman from the payroll.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call through the White House operator to contact Stephen B. Bull. The President identifies the recipient by the codename 'Steamboat' to facilitate the connection. This interaction serves as a functional request to bridge communication between the President and his aide.
President Nixon and aide Stephen B. Bull coordinate the President's upcoming travel logistics and the dissemination of an approved speech. They finalize plans to depart from the Ellipse the following day and defer a final decision on whether to proceed to Camp David until their return to Andrews Air Force Base. Additionally, Nixon instructs Bull to release the approved speech copy to the press.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discussed strategy for responding to the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on the creation of a 'white paper' to address allegations regarding national security, the Huston Plan, and wiretapping. They agreed that a comprehensive written document would be more effective than a high-stakes televised presidential address, which Nixon feared would appear defensive or suggest guilt. Furthermore, they reviewed the status of personnel issues, including the pressure on William Ruckelshaus and the anticipated appointment of Archibald Cox as Special Prosecutor.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call through the White House operator to contact Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The purpose of the exchange is solely to facilitate this communication, as the President requests to be connected with Haig. No further substantive discussion or decision-making occurs during this brief interaction.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss the strategic timing of a potential presidential televised address amidst the escalating Watergate scandal and upcoming Ervin Committee hearings. Nixon expresses concern that frequent appearances would diminish his authority, arguing that he should wait until indictments are finalized to provide a definitive, once-and-for-all statement. The two men agree to prioritize the release of a White Paper to establish the facts and provide supporters with a coherent narrative, while also debating whether Haig or Press Secretary Ron Ziegler should lead the briefings to maximize credibility.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call through the White House operator to contact Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The conversation is strictly logistical in nature, serving only to facilitate direct communication with his spokesperson. No policy matters or substantive political issues are discussed during this exchange.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the development of a formal White House statement intended to provide a defense against ongoing Watergate allegations. The President emphasizes a strategy of aggressive public response, including challenging the credibility of committee witnesses and declassifying sensitive information from prior administrations to pressure political opponents. Throughout the call, Nixon reaffirms his commitment to fight the scandal rather than resign, citing national security concerns and the need to maintain public confidence in his leadership.
This recording consists solely of a brief connection attempt by a White House operator. No conversation between significant political figures occurs, and the exchange remains limited to mutual greetings. The recording does not contain any substantive policy discussions, decisions, or administrative developments.
President Nixon directs the White House operator to place a telephone call to Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The exchange serves as a brief administrative interaction to facilitate direct communication between the President and his Chief of Staff. No further substantive policy matters are discussed during this short connection.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig coordinate the framing of the President’s involvement in the Watergate scandal and its intersection with national security matters for a forthcoming speech. They discuss specific linguistic choices, such as using the term "illegal" rather than "criminal," and outline how to explain Nixon's interactions with L. Patrick Gray and Henry Petersen. The conversation emphasizes justifying the President’s actions regarding the Ellsberg case and the Plumbers by presenting these activities as legitimate national security protections.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place an outgoing call. Although the specific recipient is not confirmed, the context suggests the President was initiating a conversation with Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The interaction was limited to standard administrative coordination required to connect the President to his intended party.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig coordinate the preparation of a statement regarding the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on the inclusion of details concerning the President's interactions with Louis Patrick Gray and Vernon A. Walters. The participants discuss whether J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. has sufficient information to draft these specific points and determine how to integrate them into the upcoming document. They agree to finalize their strategy during a planned 2:00 pm meeting, while remaining available for further consultation if new questions arise.
President Nixon initiated a brief telephone request with the White House operator to be connected with Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The primary purpose of the exchange was to facilitate communication with his Chief of Staff. No further substantive policy discussions occurred during this brief request to place the call.
President Nixon directs the White House operator to cancel an ongoing call and place a new one to Alexander M. Haig, Jr. He specifies that the operator should reach Haig even if he is currently in a meeting. This administrative instruction serves as a brief coordination effort to facilitate direct communication with his Chief of Staff.
President Nixon and Alexander M. Haig, Jr. coordinated a brief, unscheduled meeting to discuss internal matters. Haig confirmed that preparations were in order, prompting the President to move immediately to his office. The discussion functioned as a logistical bridge to facilitate an upcoming face-to-face consultation.
President Nixon initiated a brief telephone call through the White House operator to place an outgoing call. Due to the unintelligible nature of the request, the intended recipient, believed to be First Lady Pat Nixon, remains unconfirmed. No substantive policy discussions or administrative decisions occurred during this connection.
President Nixon calls First Lady Pat Nixon to inform her of a change in his evening plans. He explains that he must work on a new strategy with Alexander Haig, Jr., necessitating the cancellation of their scheduled dinner. The President notes that he intends to take Haig out to eat instead.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place an outgoing call to Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction served as a logistical bridge to facilitate direct communication with his spokesperson. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this specific exchange.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler coordinate the precise wording of an upcoming White House statement regarding the Watergate scandal. Nixon emphasizes the need to avoid phrasing that could be exploited by the press, specifically instructing Ziegler and Patrick Buchanan to ensure the language does not imply that Watergate is damaging his foreign policy initiatives. This directive follows concerns over recent negative media coverage sparked by remarks made by Henry Kissinger.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr., then serving as Special Counsel to the President. This exchange served as the administrative bridge to initiate direct communication with Buzhardt regarding ongoing legal matters. No further substantive discussion occurred during this brief request to connect.
President Nixon directs White House Counsel J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. to relocate from his office to the President's location for a private briefing. The meeting serves to coordinate their ongoing efforts regarding an unspecified administrative problem that the President is currently addressing. This brief exchange functions as a logistical prompt to facilitate an immediate, in-person consultation on sensitive legal or political matters.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig coordinate the release of a forthcoming White House statement intended to leverage recent leaks from the Ervin Committee regarding national security concerns. The pair decides to delay the statement until the following morning to ensure the draft emphasizes the committee’s unanimous recommendations and to allow for further legislative consultations. Haig confirms that key personnel, including Bryce Harlow, J. Fred Buzhardt, and himself, will manage outreach to congressional leaders like Hugh Scott, John Stennis, and Henry Jackson to bolster their political position. Additionally, they agree that Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler should avoid a morning briefing to build anticipation for the President's scheduled afternoon statement.
Alexander M. Haig, Jr. briefed President Nixon on his recent discussions with Republican congressional leaders, including Gerald Ford, Hugh Scott, and Robert Griffin. The leadership group expressed strong support for the President and sought to refute an Evans and Novak report that suggested a lack of professional party backing regarding the Watergate crisis. To address these concerns and maintain morale, they arranged a meeting with the President to reaffirm their commitment and requested more frequent consultations during the unfolding scandal.
President Nixon initiates a call to the White House operator to be connected with Chief Justice Warren E. Burger. The primary purpose of this brief administrative interaction is to facilitate direct communication between the President and the head of the Supreme Court. No substantive policy discussions occur, as the exchange is limited to the operator's coordination of the requested connection.
Chief Justice Warren E. Burger initiated this call to offer personal support to President Nixon, acknowledging the political pressure surrounding the Watergate scandal. The two discussed the difficulty of ensuring fair trials for figures like H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and John Mitchell amidst intense public scrutiny and media coverage. Nixon expressed frustration over his inability to oversee his subordinates more closely due to the demands of his foreign policy agenda, including relations with China, the Soviet Union, and the Vietnam War.
President Nixon initiates a brief request to be connected to his aide, Stephen B. Bull. The conversation is strictly logistical, serving only as a directive to the White House operator to facilitate communication with a staff member. No substantive political or policy matters are addressed during this exchange.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull discussed the President's immediate scheduling needs during a brief telephone exchange. Nixon decided to cancel a meeting involving Mary T. Brooks due to concerns about being overcommitted. Bull was instructed to postpone the engagement until the following day.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call through the White House operator to contact his Chief of Staff, Alexander M. Haig, Jr. The interaction serves as a functional step to facilitate internal communication within the administration. No further substantive discussion occurs during this specific recording.
President Nixon consulted Alexander Haig regarding the specific language of a forthcoming White House statement concerning the Watergate scandal. The President reviewed a draft containing replacements for a sentence involving his authorization of "any means" and requested that the revised text be brought to him for final approval. This exchange ensured that the administration's official position on the matter was carefully vetted prior to public release.
Rose Mary Woods coordinates office logistics with her staff, specifically requesting a delivery of drafting paper to facilitate potential typing work. She also arranges to reschedule an appointment with Patricia Reilly Hitt to accommodate these tasks. The discussion focuses on routine administrative management and scheduling adjustments within the White House office.
President Nixon initiated a brief telephone communication through the White House operator to contact Stephen B. Bull. The interaction served as a logistical attempt to reach a specific staff member for further discussion. No substantive policy matters or major decisions were finalized during this exchange.
President Nixon and Stephen Bull coordinate logistics for two upcoming meetings with Congressional leaders, clarifying the separate schedules for a Republican-only session and a larger group meeting. Nixon explicitly instructs Bull to avoid hosting the larger event at the White House due to noise from scheduled band rehearsals, directing that it be moved to Blair House instead. They finalize plans to hold the smaller meeting that evening in the Executive Office Building.
President Nixon coordinates with the White House operator to facilitate a telephone call to Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction serves as an administrative bridge to establish communication with a key staff member. No substantive policy discussions occur during this exchange as the line is connected.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler discuss the broad dissemination of a forthcoming White House statement regarding the Watergate scandal. Nixon emphasizes the need to distribute the document not only to the press but also to an extensive list of 10,000 Republican leaders and chairmen. The two agree that the statement serves as an effective platform to counter negative media narratives, specifically those involving the Cuban fund.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to connect him with Mr. Sigmund to facilitate further communication. This brief administrative exchange served as a precursor to placing a subsequent telephone call. No significant policy discussions occurred during this brief interaction.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler coordinate the rollout of an upcoming White House statement regarding the Watergate scandal. The discussion focuses on the strategy for a press briefing, which will include Leonard Garment and J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr., intended to project a relaxed and positive image. Nixon emphasizes that the staff must maintain a firm conviction in the truthfulness of the forthcoming statement before scheduling a follow-up meeting to finalize implementation details.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone call to William E. Timmons, who served as the Assistant to the President for Legislative Affairs. The interaction served as a logistical bridge to connect the President with his chief liaison for Congressional relations. No further substantive policy discussions were recorded during this brief administrative exchange.
President Nixon and William E. Timmons coordinate a meeting with Congressional leaders to discuss the administration's ongoing Watergate strategy and a proposed White House statement. The President decides to host the group, including Hugh Scott, Gerald Ford, and others, for dinner aboard the Sequoia to facilitate a more informal discussion. Nixon emphasizes that Congressional leaders must take a more proactive role in defending the administration, comparing their current expectations for presidential intervention unfavorably to the independent leadership displayed by figures like Everett Dirksen during the Eisenhower era.
President Nixon initiated a telephone call to the White House operator to facilitate a conversation with William E. Timmons, then Assistant to the President for Legislative Affairs. The brief exchange served primarily as a logistical connection to reach Timmons regarding pending legislative matters. No substantive policy discussions occurred during this specific interaction as the President awaited the completion of the call.
President Nixon and William E. Timmons coordinated a brief, 30-minute meeting with Republican Congressional leadership to discuss Watergate strategy and express mutual support. Despite scheduling conflicts with evening dinners and a Senate vote, Nixon insisted on maintaining the upcoming morning leadership meeting regarding the farm bill while keeping the evening session focused and time-constrained. The President ultimately decided that Alexander Haig and Bryce Harlow should attend the evening session to assist with the complex political discussions.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call to the White House operator to be connected with William E. Timmons, his Assistant for Legislative Affairs. The exchange serves solely as a logistical request to facilitate communication with a key staff member. No further policy or substantive matters were discussed during this brief connection.
President Nixon directed William E. Timmons to mobilize congressional allies, specifically Representatives Samuel L. Devine and John B. Conlan, to support the White House position regarding the Watergate scandal. The discussion focused on leveraging these vocal defenders to shift the political narrative ahead of an upcoming meeting with congressional leaders. Nixon emphasized the urgency of the effort, instructing Timmons to ensure these representatives were prepared for action within a strict timeframe.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection to Stephen B. Bull. The interaction served as a brief administrative bridge to initiate communication with a staff member. No further substantive policy matters or decisions were recorded during this brief exchange.
President Nixon consulted with Stephen B. Bull to check the status of Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler, who was delayed in completing a scheduled briefing. The President expressed concern that the briefing had run past its expected conclusion time and requested that Bull provide an update on Ziegler's availability. No major policy decisions were made, as the exchange focused exclusively on coordinating the President's immediate daily schedule.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull discussed the status of an ongoing briefing to coordinate a scheduled meeting. Bull informed the President that the briefing was concluding and estimated that the participant would arrive at the White House within ten minutes. This brief exchange served to facilitate the President's logistical planning for upcoming appointments.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection to his aide, Stephen B. Bull. This brief administrative interaction served as a logistical step to initiate direct communication with staff. No substantive policy discussions or decisions occurred during this brief exchange.
President Nixon coordinated with Stephen B. Bull to organize a meeting with key Republican congressional leaders, including Gerald R. Ford and George H. W. Bush. Nixon instructed Bull to track the arrival of the attendees and ensure they were provided refreshments while awaiting his arrival at the Executive Office Building. Bull confirmed that a partial group had already arrived, prompting Nixon to direct that the present guests be escorted to the location immediately while he prepared to join them shortly.
President Nixon requested that the White House operator place a telephone call to his Press Secretary, Ronald L. Ziegler. The conversation served as a brief administrative coordination to facilitate direct communication between the President and his top spokesperson. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this brief exchange.
President Nixon directed Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler to leak information regarding the administration's surveillance of journalists to the press. Nixon emphasized that the leak should frame the disclosure as a response to mounting pressure from senators demanding the release of wiretap records. Ziegler was instructed to disseminate this information immediately to control the narrative surrounding the ongoing Watergate investigations.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to connect him to his Press Secretary, Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction served as a logistical bridge to initiate a direct communication between the President and his primary spokesperson. No substantive policy matters were discussed during this brief exchange.
President Nixon directs Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler to strategically leak information regarding the Daniel Ellsberg break-in to allies such as Hugh Scott and Strom Thurmond. The President emphasizes the necessity of releasing this information to shift the political narrative and intimidate his critics. He instructs Ziegler to characterize the forthcoming disclosure as part of a planned presidential action to ensure the material receives public and congressional attention.
President Nixon initiates a routine administrative request through the White House operator to be connected with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction serves solely as a logistical bridge to facilitate direct communication with a key staff member. No substantive policy matters or political strategy discussions occur during this short call.
President Nixon directs Ronald Ziegler to coordinate a strategy involving Senate Minority Leader Hugh Scott to demand the release of Kennedy and Johnson-era wiretap records. Nixon orders the immediate public disclosure of information regarding the Daniel Ellsberg break-in, insisting it be handled decisively despite potential political fallout. Additionally, Nixon instructs Ziegler to signal to Richard Helms that he intends to declassify sensitive materials related to the Bay of Pigs and the assassination of Ngo Dinh Diem, pressuring Helms to prepare for the imminent release of these records.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a call to Bryce Harlow. He specifically requested that Harlow not be disturbed if he was out to dinner, but expressed a desire to speak with him if he was at home. This brief exchange reflects the President’s administrative efforts to reach his advisor during the evening hours.
President Nixon and Bryce N. Harlow discuss the political fallout of the Watergate scandal following the release of a new presidential statement. Harlow reassures Nixon of his support among congressional allies, specifically noting George H. W. Bush's defense of the presidency against calls for Nixon to testify before the Ervin Committee. The two men address the need for Nixon to maintain strong communication with his supporters, with Harlow suggesting that Nixon schedule informal retreats at Camp David to foster better relationships with legislative leaders. Nixon expresses his need for a trusted advisor, ultimately asking Harlow to serve as a confidant and assistant as he navigates the ongoing crisis.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with Stephen B. Bull. The brief interaction served as an administrative request to reach a specific staff member. No substantive policy matters or major decisions were recorded during this brief exchange.
President Nixon consulted with his aide Stephen B. Bull to finalize logistical arrangements for an evening meeting with congressional leaders. Nixon decided to relocate the event from Blair House to the Executive Office Building to ensure better control over the venue. He directed Bull to have Manolo Sanchez coordinate cocktail service for the twenty attendees and secure an additional bartender for the gathering.
President Nixon directs the White House operator to facilitate a meeting with Nellie L. Yates. He requests that she be brought to the Oval Office for a scheduled discussion. The brief exchange serves as an administrative coordination to initiate this personnel interaction.
President Nixon initiates a request to the White House operator to be connected with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler. The brief interaction serves as a functional step to facilitate official communication between the President and his top spokesperson. No further policy or substantive matters were discussed during this specific transmission.
President Nixon and Ronald Ziegler discussed upcoming public relations strategies, including managing the press during the President's scheduled meeting with Congressional leaders at Blair House. They reviewed recent political successes, specifically the sustainment of a presidential veto and the confirmation progress of Elliot Richardson. Additionally, Ziegler briefed the President on Gerald Alch’s testimony before the Ervin Committee, which challenged the credibility of James McCord’s Watergate-related accounts. Nixon concluded the call by announcing his intention to travel to Camp David with Brent Scowcroft to prepare for a press briefing and secure some rest.
President Nixon initiates a brief telephone call to the White House operator to be connected with Attorney General Elliot L. Richardson. The primary purpose of this contact is to facilitate direct communication with the recently confirmed head of the Department of Justice. No further substantive policy matters or specific instructions are captured in this brief exchange.
President Nixon calls Elliot L. Richardson to congratulate him on his Senate confirmation as Attorney General, commending his skill in navigating the difficult confirmation process. The conversation shifts to the Watergate investigation, specifically addressing the role of Special Prosecutor Archibald Cox and concerns regarding the continuity of ongoing work by U.S. Attorneys. Nixon emphasizes the importance of the administration’s recent public statement on the scandal and confirms logistics for Richardson’s upcoming swearing-in ceremony at the Department of Justice.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to request a connection to Stephen B. Bull. The brief call served as a routine administrative request to facilitate further communication with a member of the President's staff. No substantive policy matters or historical developments occurred during this brief exchange.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull coordinate scheduling adjustments and travel logistics for an upcoming trip to Camp David. Due to poor visibility conditions, they determine that a helicopter flight is not feasible, necessitating a 90-minute drive via a planned route. Additionally, the President postpones a haircut and directs Bull to deliver reception paperwork to his valet, Manolo Sanchez.