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Conversation 531-025

TapeTape 531StartTuesday, June 29, 1971 at 12:46 PMEndTuesday, June 29, 1971 at 1:11 PMTape start time02:21:39Tape end time02:27:40ParticipantsNixon, Richard M. (President);  Haldeman, H. R. ("Bob")Recording deviceOval Office
AI Summary

President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the damaging impact of administration leaks on public confidence and the necessity for a more decisive, unified executive presence. They assess the reactions of cabinet members, specifically Peter G. Peterson, to the President's recent directives regarding discipline and interdepartmental policy. Haldeman is tasked with briefing the White House staff to reinforce these expectations and ensure a stronger, more confident public posture for the administration.

LeaksPublic ConfidenceCabinet RelationsPeter G. PetersonWhite House Administration
AudioNARA Description

On June 29, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman met in the Oval Office of the White House from 12:46 pm to 1:11 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 531-025 of the White House Tapes.

Nixon Library Finding Aid
Conversation No. 531-25/530-15

Date: June 29, 1971
Time: 12:46 pm - 1:11 pm
Location: Oval Office

The President met with H.R. (“Bob”) Haldeman; this recording begins at an unknown time while
the meeting is in progress.

     Leaks
          -Interdepartmental rivalry
                -John N. Mitchell

     John B. Connally
          -National Commission on Productivity
          -Activities

     Leaks
          -Effect on public confidence in administration
          -President's comments to Cabinet

                 -Peter G. Peterson's reaction
                 -Haldeman's forthcoming briefing to White House staff
                 -Mitchell
           -Peterson
                 -Search for Ambassador to Japan
                       -Unknown man
Transcript (AI-Generated)

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 Do not cite this transcript as authoritative.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

And that's what's wrong with it.
Well, that's right, he said that.
Just as well, you know, whatever our policy is, you just got to just act.
It's everything.
Of course, I don't pick up a percent in terms of confidence, you know.
Now, this is it, boys.
We know what we're doing, and we're confident.
You know, it's like the team.
The guy leading the charge, you know, he looks scared.
The rest of them are running to our tail.
Well, for your question, I want you to understand a few of the other policies that we spoke about.
The time when Peterson acted that way made me, that this government needed that sort of thing.
What do you think?
And I think everybody feels that way, even though he accepts himself for his own errands sometimes.
You wouldn't appreciate it.
You know, I mentioned that you were a part of the White House government.
When I say that, it's a general thing.
They know we're not overlooking white all the time.
Hey, you jumped hard on that.
That's the other thing, dude.
We're setting the stage now.
We're being goddamn tough on somebody here.
Just let them go.
What'd you read?
So Peterson, I'm looking for another trick.
Bastard, he has a biological name.
Thank you, sir.
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