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Conversation 544-006

TapeTape 544StartFriday, July 23, 1971 at 10:21 AMEndFriday, July 23, 1971 at 10:25 AMTape start time00:43:33Tape end time00:44:38ParticipantsNixon, Richard M. (President);  Haldeman, H. R. ("Bob")Recording deviceOval Office
AI Summary

President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss the logistical arrangements for the upcoming presidential trip to the People's Republic of China, specifically focusing on the optics of the delegation. Nixon expresses concern that John D. Ehrlichman should not participate in his capacity as domestic policy advisor, citing potential conflicts and the need to manage public perceptions of the mission. The President ultimately decides to restrict Ehrlichman’s role to ensure he is not perceived as part of the primary diplomatic entourage.

PRC tripJohn D. EhrlichmanDomestic CouncilDiplomacyPublic relations
AudioNARA Description

On July 23, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:21 am and 10:25 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 544-006 of the White House Tapes.

Nixon Library Finding Aid
Conversation No. 544-6

Date: July 23, 1971
Time: Unknown between 10:21 am and 10:25 am
Location: Oval Office

The President talked with H.R. (“Bob”) Haldeman.

     The President's forthcoming trip to the PRC
          -Advance work
               -John D. Ehrlichman
                      -Conflict with domestic policy advisor position
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 Do not cite this transcript as authoritative.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.

I mean, we really can't just concern, you know, the government and everything else that we don't appear to be, you know, just running off to China.
And even though he's there for a day, well, it won't be a day.
It has to be a week and a half, you know.
Yeah.
Well, it's an enormous story.
Whoever knows is going to go with me.
You know what I mean?
That's right.
That's right.
That's right.
I'll arrange that he can go and have something else.
So I'm going to want to have a domestic follow-up at a later time with the domestic council thing.
He can go as the leader of the domestic council to see what their economy is and ours, but I don't think he should go in this capacity.
I just don't think he should be in the dance band.
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