Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on Clark MacGregor
97 conversations · frequently with Nixon, Haldeman, Bull, MacGregor
These are conversations about Clark MacGregor. For the 209 conversations MacGregor took part in, see Clark MacGregor’s page →
When Clark MacGregor comes up
Related topics: White House operationsCongressional relationsPresidential schedulingPresidential communicationLegislative strategyWhite House communications1972 electionPolitical strategyH. R. HaldemanWilliam E. TimmonsSchedulingGeorge McGovernAdministrative logisticsWhite House scheduling
On March 19, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:32 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 470-010 of the White House Tapes.
On March 19, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:33 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 470-011 of the White House Tapes.
On March 24, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Clark MacGregor met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:02 am and 10:05 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 471-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss the internal political reaction to the President's recent televised speech regarding troop withdrawals in Southeast Asia. The conversation centers on measuring the loyalty of key administration figures like Clark MacGregor, Donald Rumsfeld, and Robert Finch based on their feedback regarding the policy's boldness. Nixon expresses frustration with staff members who prioritize political optics over supporting the administration's strategic position, leading the pair to evaluate the loyalty of their inner circle while awaiting input from John Connally.
President Nixon expressed frustration to H. R. Haldeman regarding a meeting with Republican Senators, specifically criticizing Clark MacGregor for allegedly prompting legislators like Howard Baker to push for an end to the Vietnam War. Nixon felt MacGregor mistakenly believed the President was uninformed on congressional sentiment and failed to effectively manage the discussion to better align with administration goals. Haldeman was tasked with holding a candid debriefing with MacGregor to address this tactical failure and was also instructed to expedite the release of relevant poll data.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to coordinate logistical arrangements for a scheduled luncheon on Capitol Hill. They discussed the specific departure time and clarified the composition of the passenger list, specifically regarding the inclusion of key staff members William E. Timmons and Clark MacGregor. The brief exchange focused on ensuring that the transport plan was properly communicated to the appropriate personnel.
On May 13, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:46 pm and 3:47 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-047 of the White House Tapes.
On June 28, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:45 pm and 6:47 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-008 of the White House Tapes.
On June 29, 1971, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:06 pm and 5:35 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-027 of the White House Tapes.
On June 29, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:06 pm and 5:35 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-031 of the White House Tapes.
On July 26, 1971, Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 5:19 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 546-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon initiated this call to Senator Marlow W. Cook to offer birthday wishes and discuss Cook's recent attendance at a space launch. The conversation quickly shifted to legislative concerns, specifically the precarious status of the Lockheed loan guarantee bill in the Senate. Nixon emphasized the importance of the legislation, and they strategized on avoiding the prolonged, unsuccessful floor tactics that previously doomed the Supersonic Transport (SST) project. Nixon directed the Senator to coordinate further efforts with Clark MacGregor.
On August 2, 1971, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:19 pm and 11:07 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 007-057 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon sought to contact Congressman Marvin L. Esch, who was currently traveling in Nairobi, Kenya, as part of an Education and Labor Committee trip. After determining that the Congressman was unavailable until the end of the month, the President instructed the White House operator to connect him with Esch’s secretary, Linda Davis. The communication facilitated a follow-up call regarding the Congressman's schedule and the delivery of birthday greetings to Clark MacGregor.
President Nixon contacted Linda Davis, secretary to Congressman Marvin L. Esch, to extend birthday greetings to the Congressman. During the brief call, Davis clarified that Esch was currently traveling in Africa as part of an Education and Labor Committee trip. Nixon requested that she relay his well wishes and his personal hope that Esch would continue his service in the U.S. Congress.
President Nixon placed a brief telephone call to Louise H. Dagney, the secretary for Congressman Orval H. Hansen, to acknowledge Hansen's upcoming trip to Idaho. The primary purpose of the conversation was to extend personal birthday greetings to the Congressman. Nixon expressed his well-wishes for Hansen's future, specifically noting his desire for the Congressman to continue his tenure in the House of Representatives.
On September 9, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:03 pm and 2:05 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 008-071 of the White House Tapes.
On September 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, unknown person(s), H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman, White House operator, and Clark MacGregor met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 9:20 am and 10:33 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 278-067 of the White House Tapes.
H. R. Haldeman coordinates with Clark MacGregor to ensure that Senator Gordon L. Allott is informed that President Nixon will personally intervene with Representatives F. Edward Hébert and Leslie C. Arends regarding an unspecified draft issue. Haldeman emphasizes that the President's involvement must remain strictly confidential to secure the necessary cooperation from the congressmen. MacGregor acknowledges the directive and agrees to convey these instructions to Allott while cautioning against any public disclosure.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to coordinate legislative strategy regarding the draft extension bill, specifically focusing on managing key congressional figures like Gordon L. Allott and Clark MacGregor. The discussion addressed the need for securing stronger leadership support for the President's agenda within Congress. They further considered the role of Attorney General John N. Mitchell in facilitating meetings with Republican legislators to align their efforts with White House objectives.
President Nixon calls newly appointed Senator Robert T. Stafford to offer personal congratulations on his transition to the Senate. The two discuss the logistics of a future White House photo opportunity to commemorate the appointment, with the President directing his staff to coordinate the scheduling through Clark MacGregor. The conversation also briefly touches upon Stafford's transition, including his recent swearing-in and his ongoing search for office space.
On September 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:55 pm and 7:59 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-067 of the White House Tapes.
On September 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 7:59 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-068 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed legislative strategy regarding the Byrd amendment on chrome, focusing on the need to manage relations with Senator Harry F. Byrd, Jr. and the broader implications for Congress. The conversation also touched upon the administration's stance on the PRC and upcoming messaging efforts, including the preparation of the President's Phase II economic speech. Kissinger committed to coordinating with Clark MacGregor to ensure key political allies were reassured and remained aligned with the administration's objectives.
On October 7, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:32 pm and 3:43 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 010-137 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to coordinate upcoming scheduling and staffing logistics, specifically addressing travel plans for Henry Kissinger and meetings involving Senator Charles Percy in Chicago. The discussion focused on managing the President's calendar and delegating responsibilities to aides like Clark MacGregor to ensure operational efficiency. The pair evaluated the political implications of these engagements and determined the necessary preparatory steps for the following day.
President Nixon expressed frustration to Charles Colson regarding the lack of vocal enthusiasm and public support from Republican congressional leadership for administration initiatives. Nixon urged Colson to ensure that congressional leaders, specifically Clark MacGregor and William Timmons, take a more proactive role in managing public statements from GOP lawmakers. Colson agreed to coordinate with staff to draft messaging and provide the direct guidance necessary to encourage Republican members to publicly champion the President's policy agenda.
President Nixon initiated this brief call to Congressman Glenn R. Davis to extend belated birthday greetings. The two men engaged in lighthearted personal banter, referencing information provided by Clark MacGregor regarding their respective ages. The conversation concluded with a casual discussion about golf and the President expressing his appreciation for Davis's legislative support.
President Nixon directed Henry Kissinger to coordinate with Senate Republican Leader Hugh Scott and legislative aide Clark MacGregor regarding the administration's response to an impending Senate vote on the foreign aid program. Kissinger was instructed to ensure both men were aligned with the White House's messaging strategy. He agreed to contact Scott and MacGregor immediately to finalize these efforts.
On November 3, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:55 pm and 5:04 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 013-113 of the White House Tapes.
On November 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and Henry A. Kissinger talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:08 pm and 6:39 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 014-143 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Alexander P. Butterfield to coordinate the presidential schedule and review pending legislative matters. The discussion centered on a memorandum from Clark MacGregor regarding key senators—James O. Eastland, John C. Stennis, and Russell B. Long—and evaluated the potential for a presidential veto. Additionally, the President addressed strategic communications involving Charles W. Colson and John B. Connally.
H. R. Haldeman consulted Clark MacGregor to determine the expected schedule for the Senate's Thanksgiving recess. MacGregor projected that the Senate would likely adjourn between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, noting that legislators were eager to travel home for the holiday. No further legislative sessions were anticipated for that Wednesday evening.
On November 22, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:51 am and 10:56 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-084 of the White House Tapes.
On November 22, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:45 pm and 1:30 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-090 of the White House Tapes.
On November 22, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:43 pm and 2:25 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-094 of the White House Tapes.
On November 22, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:07 pm and 4:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-099 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Clark MacGregor discuss the administration's 52-47 defeat on a critical Senate vote regarding Title 10 of the Pastore amendment to a tax bill. Faced with this legislative setback, Nixon confirms his intention to veto the measure and coordinates a strategy session for the following morning. MacGregor advises on press messaging regarding the tax check-off provision and receives approval to bring Bill Timmons to the upcoming breakfast meeting to discuss further efforts to influence the House of Representatives.
On November 23, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:58 pm and 7:16 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-127 of the White House Tapes.
On November 23, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:58 pm and 7:16 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-128 of the White House Tapes.
On November 24, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:02 am and 8:08 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-132 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with Clark MacGregor regarding the Senate's legislative schedule and expected adjournment. MacGregor confirmed that the Senate would conclude its business by 2 p.m. following the passage of remaining minor, non-controversial bills. Due to many senators departing early, MacGregor expressed doubt that a quorum could be maintained for the remainder of the session.
On November 29, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 10:45 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-140 of the White House Tapes.
On November 29, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:20 am and 11:25 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-147 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon coordinated an urgent scheduling adjustment for a meeting with Clark MacGregor and Ronald L. Ziegler regarding ongoing staff projects. The President instructed MacGregor to enlist the assistance of speechwriter Raymond K. Price, Jr. to finalize preparations before the group convened in the Oval Office. Nixon also directed MacGregor to utilize phone outreach to ensure key personnel were alerted to specific action items.
On November 29, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:46 pm and 3:08 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-156 of the White House Tapes.
On November 29, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 5:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-168 of the White House Tapes.
On November 29, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:45 pm and 5:47 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-169 of the White House Tapes.
On November 30, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:48 pm and 3:55 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 015-175 of the White House Tapes.
On December 2, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:43 pm and 12:45 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 628-007 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield discussed a draft letter intended for Representative Otto E. Passman that involved input from Clark MacGregor, William E. Timmons, and Henry A. Kissinger. After reviewing the document, the President determined that he should not sign the letter. The meeting concluded with the decision that the administration would instead proceed with a vote on the matter.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to review his upcoming schedule, specifically focusing on a meeting with Clark MacGregor. The discussion centered on managing pending congressional legislation and the implications of a recent amendment introduced by Chairman O'Connor. The participants affirmed their satisfaction with the progress made on these legislative strategies prior to their scheduled engagement.
President Nixon met with an unknown individual to discuss logistical arrangements for the upcoming Christmas holiday. The conversation centered on the President's potential visit to Camp David and the status of his son-in-law David Eisenhower's travel plans. Nixon also briefly coordinated a call to Clark MacGregor regarding official business.
President Nixon consulted with an unidentified staff member regarding legislative priorities and administrative scheduling. The discussion centered on the status of a pending tax bill and the coordination of a future meeting with Clark MacGregor. Nixon provided specific directives regarding his upcoming calendar and general instructions for staff management.
On January 20, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 1:29 pm and 1:33 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 652-004 of the White House Tapes.
On January 26, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:12 pm and 5:24 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 019-122 of the White House Tapes.
On February 28, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:42 pm and 2:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-115 of the White House Tapes.
On March 6, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:30 am and 12:28 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 677-006 of the White House Tapes.
On March 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met in the Oval Office of the White House from 11:53 am to 11:59 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 688-006 of the White House Tapes.
H. R. Haldeman, Clark MacGregor, and Charles Colson coordinated strategies to successfully terminate the Senate hearings concerning the ITT case. MacGregor outlined efforts to secure necessary votes from Republican senators and Senator James Eastland, while discussing potential concessions and scheduling hurdles. The participants also considered whether Peter Flanigan should provide a statement to the committee, weighing the political benefits against the risks of breaching executive privilege.
On March 28, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House from 12:43 pm to 12:44 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 695-007 of the White House Tapes.
On March 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:18 pm and 3:07 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 022-043 of the White House Tapes.
On March 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 12:57 pm and 3:07 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 328-017 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman briefly conferred regarding the scheduling and logistical arrangements for a meeting involving Clark MacGregor. The discussion centered on confirming MacGregor's status and his recent movements to coordinate upcoming administrative business. No major policy decisions were reached during this brief exchange, which functioned primarily as a status update on personnel management.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met briefly to coordinate a forthcoming meeting involving Clark MacGregor and Charles W. Colson. The discussion centered on administrative scheduling and potential personnel or strategic adjustments. The President indicated that internal changes were already too far along to alter, suggesting a firm commitment to an ongoing course of action regarding these staff consultations.
President Nixon consults with his valet, Manolo Sanchez, regarding legislative strategy and political maneuvering related to an upcoming executive session. The discussion touches upon managing witness lists, specifically mentioning Clark MacGregor, and navigating potential biases during proceedings. The President emphasizes the necessity of taking a firm stance despite the adversarial nature of the situation.
President Nixon consults with an associate regarding political strategies to counter Democratic opposition to his Vietnam policies. The discussion centers on drafting a public critique of those who fail to condemn the North Vietnamese invasion, specifically highlighting Secretary of State William P. Rogers's recent Senate testimony. Nixon instructs the participant to coordinate with Clark MacGregor to ensure this messaging is effectively disseminated to influence congressional and public opinion.
On April 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:56 pm and 5:00 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-022 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon coordinated with staff members Stephen Bull, Clark MacGregor, and Alexander Butterfield to arrange a private trip aboard the presidential yacht, the Sequoia. The participants finalized the logistics for a late afternoon departure and dinner, while also briefly discussing the timing of an urgent telephone call to be placed by the President. These arrangements were intended to facilitate an informal meeting away from the office.
On April 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Clark MacGregor talked on the telephone from 5:00 pm to 5:01 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-023 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Clark MacGregor to coordinate the administration's legal and political defense regarding the Senate investigation into the ITT antitrust settlement. They strategized on managing witness testimony and committee dynamics, specifically aiming to mitigate aggressive questioning from Democratic senators Edward Kennedy and John Tunney by utilizing Republican committee allies. Furthermore, Nixon urged MacGregor to maintain an offensive political posture, particularly by contrasting the administration's actions with previous Democratic inaction on conglomerates and by framing the administration's stance on the Vietnam War as a necessary defense against communist aggression.
On April 25, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 1:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-066 of the White House Tapes.
On April 25, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and Charles W. Colson talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:55 pm and 1:59 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-067 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman briefly conferred regarding the administration's outreach strategy following a recent legislative vote. Nixon inquired about the status of replies to correspondence from VIP supporters and proposed sending personalized 'one-liner' acknowledgments to the 47 senators who voted in favor of the Byrd Amendment. Upon reflection, they collectively decided to abandon the direct outreach to the senators, opting instead to rely on the personal calls Nixon had already initiated.
President Nixon met with his personal aide, Manolo Sanchez, and an unidentified woman to discuss mundane administrative and environmental matters. The brief encounter included a discussion regarding the current weather and a review of the President’s upcoming schedule. These proceedings primarily served to coordinate the President's engagement with Clark MacGregor.
On June 20, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:39 pm and 1:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 025-081 of the White House Tapes.
On June 20, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:39 pm and 1:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 025-082 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon discussed pending legislation concerning the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) with an unknown individual, likely an aide. The conversation touched upon whether the legislation applied to federal cases, specifically in relation to death row inmates and appeals. John Ehrlichman and Clark MacGregor were mentioned as individuals involved with the OEO legislation.
On July 1, 1972, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:16 pm and 1:02 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 026-040 of the White House Tapes.
H. R. Haldeman directed the White House operator to locate Clark MacGregor for an urgent discussion. The operator informed Haldeman that MacGregor was traveling through Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. Haldeman insisted that the operator track MacGregor down to establish contact despite his active campaign schedule.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman, Charles Colson, and Ronald Ziegler to coordinate the administration's political strategy regarding the 1972 presidential campaign. The discussion focused on distancing the President from campaign chair Clark MacGregor’s unauthorized public comments concerning Senator Thomas Eagleton's medical history. Additionally, the group strategized on leveraging Senator George McGovern’s controversial stances on foreign aid to Greece and national defense as political wedges to secure support from key voting blocs.
President Nixon and Nelson Rockefeller discussed the positive reception surrounding Clark MacGregor’s recent activities in support of the 1972 reelection campaign. The President briefly shared his experience inaugurating a new satellite communications station with Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir. The conversation also touched upon administrative logistics and minor technical distractions during the call.
President Richard Nixon and Nelson A. Rockefeller discussed political strategy and the performance of campaign surrogate Clark MacGregor ahead of the 1972 election cycle. The conversation addressed the status of the President's legislative agenda, specifically welfare reform efforts involving Senator Russell B. Long, as well as political climates in key states. Additionally, the two touched upon the financial instability of the Grumman aircraft company and the potential for federal intervention via the Navy to prevent bankruptcy.
On July 26, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:01 pm and 5:10 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 027-089 of the White House Tapes.
On July 26, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Clark MacGregor talked on the telephone from 5:10 pm to 5:20 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 027-091 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Clark MacGregor to discuss campaign strategy and assess the vulnerabilities of Democratic challenger George McGovern. The two reviewed McGovern's campaign staff, his controversial selection of Thomas Eagleton as a running mate, and perceived arrogance among McGovern's intellectual supporters. Additionally, they considered Nelson Rockefeller's perspective on MacGregor’s performance and his interactions with a hostile press corps.
President Nixon consulted with H. R. Haldeman regarding Clark MacGregor’s performance and the fallout from a recent press conference involving Nelson Rockefeller. The discussion focused on managing political messaging, including the potential for future briefings directed at Cabinet members and the spouses of administration officials. They further addressed Rockefeller’s assessment of MacGregor as they strategized on internal political coordination.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and Charles Colson met to discuss campaign strategy, press relations, and economic policy ahead of the 1972 election. They evaluated tactics for addressing inflation and debated how to effectively frame political messaging, including the potential to leverage questions about campaign finance and foreign funding against George McGovern. Additionally, the President expressed frustration with campaign official Clark MacGregor's public criticisms of the staff, leading the group to discuss the necessity of maintaining discipline and secretly recording interviews for future protection.
President Nixon, Charles Colson, and Stephen Bull discussed the administration's record on unemployment, comparing figures from 1969 to 1972 and considering its relationship to the Vietnam War. They also touched upon public relations strategies, mentioning Clark MacGregor and George McGovern, and reviewed upcoming scheduling matters, including a meeting with Pat Nixon. The conversation also briefly referenced poll data from Gallup and Harris.
On September 12, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:28 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 775-010 of the White House Tapes.
Charles W. Colson and W. Richard Howard discuss the stalled release of a critical political statement targeting George S. McGovern, which was intended to be issued by Clark MacGregor and Robert J. Dole. Colson expresses frustration that MacGregor has failed to authorize the statement due to his preoccupation with upcoming debate preparations. Ultimately, Colson instructs Howard to involve Alexander Haig to push the release forward before the 6:00 p.m. deadline.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to review and refine his upcoming daily schedule. The discussion centered on coordinating meetings with H.R. Haldeman and Senator Robert P. Griffin, as well as managing a scheduled filming session. Additionally, the two addressed the status of arrangements at Camp David, noting the need for final confirmation from Clark MacGregor.
H. R. Haldeman coordinates with Dwight L. Chapin to manage the President's upcoming campaign itinerary, specifically focusing on an appearance in West Virginia. The discussion outlines logistical arrangements, including outreach to Governor Arch Moore and potential events in Huntington and Ashland, Kentucky. They aim to finalize these details following a note sent by Clark MacGregor to the Governor.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, and Charles Colson met to discuss the final stages of the 1972 presidential campaign, focusing on delegating media responses and organizing future public appearances. They evaluated the effectiveness of Vice President Spiro Agnew in challenging George McGovern's stance on Vietnam negotiations, specifically emphasizing the contrast between "peace with honor" and McGovern’s perceived "irresponsibility." Additionally, the participants discussed personnel matters, including a potential transition for Clark MacGregor into a new role following the election.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and Stephen Bull discuss a request from Murray Chotiner for a personal meeting with the President. The group reviews Chotiner’s recent history with the administration, specifically noting his past criticisms of the 1972 campaign operations managed by Clark MacGregor. The discussion concludes with the President deciding to accommodate the request for a brief, personal meeting.
On February 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull talked on the telephone from 6:33 pm to 6:34 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-108 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discussed the potential publication of damaging press stories, specifically addressing a rumor involving Herbert Klein and Art Buchwald that was ultimately retracted. The conversation shifted to a Washington Star article concerning internal conflicts between John Ehrlichman and Clark MacGregor regarding the Committee to Re-elect the President's (CRP) investigation of itself. Nixon directed Ziegler to coordinate with Bryce Harlow to secure a briefing on the situation before the President's upcoming morning meeting.