Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on Department of Justice
64 conversations · frequently with Nixon, Kleindienst, Ehrlichman, Haldeman
When Department of Justice comes up
Related topics: WatergateHenry E. PetersenRichard G. KleindienstElliot RichardsonWhite House operationsPresidential communicationWatergate investigationJohn W. Dean IIIJohn N. MitchellWhite House communicationsSpecial ProsecutorExecutive privilegeDaniel EllsbergJohn D. Ehrlichman
President Nixon and Treasury Secretary John Connally discussed administrative strategies for managing the economy, specifically regarding the financial stability of Lockheed and the political implications of Department of Justice actions against banks for political contributions. They deliberated on how to handle Federal Reserve Chairman Arthur Burns, whose public testimony on wage, price, and fiscal policies had become a source of friction for the administration. Connally agreed to speak with Burns to establish boundaries for his testimony and to reassert the administration’s position on monetary supply and interest rates.
On April 19, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:03 pm and 3:04 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 002-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, John Mitchell, H.R. Haldeman, and John Dean discussed the Supreme Court's recent decision on school busing. The primary focus was on the implications of the ruling, particularly its distinction between de jure and de facto segregation, and how the administration should respond publicly. They debated the strategy for a public statement, aiming to emphasize compliance with the law while distancing the White House from actively promoting busing or racial balancing, and ensuring the burden fell on local school authorities and district courts. The conversation also touched on potential Supreme Court resignations and the broader political landscape.
On May 4, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:22 pm and 4:27 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 002-075 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Charles Colson met to discuss the administration's political strategy regarding the recent killing of police officers, with Nixon expressing frustration over the Justice Department's failure to take aggressive legal action or project a sufficiently firm image. The two strategized on how to exploit the issue to court public support and push for new federal legislation against police killings, while also reviewing current polling data and congressional maneuvering on the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) and the Antiballistic Missile (ABM) program. Nixon emphasized his desire for a hard-line, proactive stance to contrast with Democratic candidates, ultimately tasking Colson with finding ways to leverage these issues for electoral advantage.
On June 1, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:20 pm and 10:23 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 004-016 of the White House Tapes.
On June 30, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:44 pm and 2:52 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-055 of the White House Tapes.
On September 20, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:12 pm and 7:40 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-100 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Attorney General John Mitchell discuss the vetting process for the potential Supreme Court nomination of Mildred L. Lillie. They evaluate the political advantages of her Catholic faith and her marriage to an Italian husband, while also reviewing her judicial record and her husband’s professional background. Mitchell confirms that a nomination package is being prepared for the President's final approval to ensure the appointment remains on schedule.
On October 20, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:42 pm and 3:43 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 012-007 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Attorney General John Mitchell discuss the possibility of the Department of Justice intervening in a Grand Rapids, Michigan, school busing case following concerns raised by Representative Gerald Ford and Senator Robert Griffin. The President urges Mitchell to signal administration opposition to busing during upcoming appearances with Michigan lawmakers and to investigate similar intervention potential in Detroit. Additionally, the pair reviews the positive results of the recent November 2nd mayoral elections, specifically noting the strong support from Philadelphia's Frank Rizzo and the successful reelection of mayors in Cleveland, Indianapolis, and San Diego.
President Nixon and Governor Ronald Reagan discussed the need for national unity regarding U.S. peace proposals in Vietnam, emphasizing that a unified front is essential to force North Vietnam to negotiate. Following this strategic discussion, Reagan advocated for the appointments of William French Smith and Caspar Weinberger to potential roles within the administration, specifically the Supreme Court or Attorney General. Nixon explained his preference to nominate Richard Kleindienst as the immediate successor to John Mitchell due to the logistical challenges of transitioning a new official into the Justice Department, while acknowledging the high qualifications of Reagan's candidates.
President Nixon consulted with California Governor Ronald Reagan to coordinate political messaging regarding a new Vietnam peace proposal, emphasizing the need for a unified national voice to force North Vietnamese negotiations. Nixon also discussed personnel decisions within the Justice Department, explaining his preference for Richard Kleindienst to serve as Attorney General for the remainder of the term rather than installing a new appointee who would lack the necessary institutional knowledge. The two leaders additionally touched upon internal administrative personnel and ongoing political dynamics in California.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull discussed a controversial Justice Department lawsuit challenging Texas’s established ten-mile fishing rights, which conflicted with prior legislative and judicial precedents. Concerned by the political implications and the inquiries from Texas Supreme Court Justice Price Daniel, Nixon directed Bull to investigate the origin and rationale behind the filing. The President expressed frustration with the litigation, emphasizing the need to clarify why the administration pursued a suit that appeared to contradict settled state maritime boundaries.
President Nixon consults John B. Connally regarding the selection of a new member for the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, where they agree to appoint a younger candidate to ensure longevity and malleability under Arthur Burns. Additionally, the two discuss a controversial civil suit filed by the U.S. government against Price Daniel involving Tidelands rights. Nixon expresses frustration that a government attorney involved in previous Tidelands litigation is responsible for the new brief and suggests the matter needs immediate intervention.
President Nixon and Attorney General Richard G. Kleindienst discussed recent political developments, including the search for a new Deputy Attorney General and the logistical planning for upcoming national conventions. They evaluated the potential political fallout of a proposed clean water bill veto and the merits of potential candidates for the deputy position, such as William D. Ruckelshaus. Additionally, they reviewed recent political trends, specifically speculating on the chaotic nature of the Democratic National Convention and the presidential campaign of George McGovern.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman briefly discussed personnel concerns regarding the Department of Justice, specifically John Mitchell's opposition to appointing William Ruckelshaus as Deputy Attorney General. Mitchell prefers a professional with convention experience for the role, while Nixon expresses skepticism about the necessity of that qualification. The conversation concludes with a dismissal of Robert Mardian as a candidate and a focus on utilizing John Dean for related departmental tasks.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman, Richard Kleindienst, and Caspar Weinberger to address a wide-ranging agenda including Social Security legislation, death penalty policy following Supreme Court rulings, and security preparations for the upcoming national political conventions. The discussion also covered the health of George C. Wallace and administrative personnel matters. Finally, the group engaged in a detailed dialogue regarding the burgeoning Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the contents of E. Howard Hunt’s safe, FBI involvement, and potential strategies to manage the political fallout and legal ramifications of the break-in.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss the potential political fallout surrounding the legal case of Jake Jacobsen and his partner, specifically focusing on protecting John Connally. Ehrlichman reports that Attorney General Richard Kleindienst is willing to delay an indictment, though he fears the risk of public disclosure. Nixon instructs Ehrlichman to coordinate closely with Connally and prioritize his guidance on how to manage the situation to avoid negative implications for him.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to discuss the potential reorganization of the executive branch and the status of leadership within the Justice Department. The conversation focused on the tenure of FBI Director L. Patrick Gray and Attorney General Richard G. Kleindienst, specifically addressing their performance and the political ramifications of their potential retention or resignation. Ehrlichman provided updates on congressional and press reactions, while the two weighed the impact of a departmental overhaul on these personnel decisions.
John B. Connally and Richard Keaton discuss the failure of their efforts to obtain assurances from the Department of Justice regarding the Gulf and Western Industries antitrust case. Keaton reports that a DOJ official, identified as Crawford, refused to offer any legal representations or influence the Federal Trade Commission's position, citing a lack of information and time. Connally concludes that the government is unwilling to reach an agreement and instructs Keaton to brief Charles Bluhdorn before he meets with him personally to determine their next steps.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, Kenneth Cole, and Ronald Ziegler discussed administrative reactions to the ongoing occupation at Wounded Knee and the handling of the Watergate investigation. Cole clarified that the White House was distancing itself from direct management of the Wounded Knee standoff, deferring tactical control to the Justice Department and John Whitaker while maintaining a hardline stance against amnesty for the protesters until hostages are released. Additionally, the participants reviewed the status of the FBI’s Watergate inquiry and the impact of L. Patrick Gray’s testimony. Cole was tasked with providing a follow-up status report on the Bureau of Indian Affairs by the following morning.
President Nixon dictated a memorandum for the file regarding a variety of administrative and policy matters. The discussion covered public relations strategies for domestic policy, the status of Vietnam War objectives and U.S. troop withdrawals, and the performance of the Justice Department and FBI. Nixon also reviewed personnel and scheduling concerns, specifically regarding the roles of H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and William Rogers, while noting potential awards for customs agents.
President Nixon and John Dean discussed the fallout from the Watergate investigation and the upcoming Senate hearings. They reviewed the agreement reached with Senators Ervin and Baker regarding FBI reports and the Justice Department's handling of information. Nixon instructed Dean to work with Richard Moore on preparing a general statement for the President, to be released after the sentencing of the Watergate burglars, which Dean confirmed would occur the following week. Dean also expressed concerns about the difficulty of preparing a comprehensive report without creating new problems and suggested focusing on Donald Segretti's activities as a potentially less problematic area for public disclosure.
On March 22, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:01 pm and 2:19 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 044-009 of the White House Tapes.
On April 14, 1973, John D. Ehrlichman and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:15 pm and 6:08 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-030 of the White House Tapes.
John D. Ehrlichman briefs Attorney General Richard G. Kleindienst on his internal investigation into the Watergate scandal, specifically noting that Jeb Stuart Magruder has decided to cooperate with federal prosecutors. Ehrlichman reports that Magruder's new testimony implicates multiple high-level figures and contradicts previous statements, significantly altering the legal landscape of the case. They discuss the necessity of maintaining proper legal boundaries in information gathering, the potential appointment of a special counsel, and plans to coordinate with Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen to ensure ongoing investigations proceed without procedural errors.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and Richard G. Kleindienst talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:12 pm and 2:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-040 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1973, Richard G. Lugar and Henry E. Petersen talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:12 pm and 2:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-041 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and John D. Ehrlichman talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:17 pm and 9:39 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-057 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:16 pm and 11:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-063 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:45 pm and 8:58 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-080 of the White House Tapes.
On April 16, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:45 pm and 8:58 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-081 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen to discuss the ongoing investigation into the Watergate scandal and its potential impact on his administration. The two focused on the necessity of managing the investigation's pace and gathering sufficient facts to justify legal proceedings. Nixon emphasized the importance of staying informed on developments and coordinating communication to avoid jeopardizing the integrity of the prosecution.
On April 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:23 am and 11:32 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-128 of the White House Tapes.
On April 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:23 am and 11:32 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 903-008 of the White House Tapes.
On April 25, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:10 am and 8:17 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 904-002 of the White House Tapes.
On April 25, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at 8:17 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-135 of the White House Tapes.
On April 25, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:17 am and 8:25 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-136 of the White House Tapes.
Attorney General Richard G. Kleindienst urgently requested an immediate meeting with President Nixon to discuss the legal implications of John W. Dean III’s recent statements to prosecutor Earl J. Silbert regarding the Daniel Ellsberg case. Kleindienst emphasized that the gravity of the situation required prompt action and legal consultation. The President instructed Kleindienst to report to the White House alone to address the matter.
President Nixon directs Attorney General Richard G. Kleindienst to ensure that the prosecutor and judge in the Daniel Ellsberg case understand the extreme sensitivity of the underlying national security investigation. Nixon emphasizes that information regarding these sensitive sources and methods should be handled with restraint to prevent public exposure. This directive seeks to protect classified intelligence gathering operations by framing the scope of the legal proceedings accordingly.
President Nixon and Attorney General Richard Kleindienst held a brief, late-night discussion regarding the status of a national security investigation. They touched upon the complexities of obtaining a judicial decision and the political implications of how the public perceives the case. The exchange concluded with the President dismissing Kleindienst, leaving the specific procedural next steps unresolved.
President Nixon and Attorney General Richard G. Kleindienst discussed the status of the ongoing Watergate-related Ellsberg break-in trial, confirming that the prosecution would disclose sensitive information to the judge while attempting to avoid a mistrial. The pair also addressed the escalating Wounded Knee standoff, with Kleindienst expressing concerns over law enforcement risks and potential violence. They agreed to hold a formal meeting the following week with key advisors to decide on a definitive course of action, noting that even Senator George McGovern was now advocating for government intervention.
President Nixon consulted with Attorney General Richard G. Kleindienst regarding the status and procedural developments of the Daniel Ellsberg case on the West Coast. The President expressed urgency in receiving a report on the matter, noting that he needed to be kept informed as the legal situation evolved. Kleindienst agreed to monitor the situation and provide the President with an update later that evening.
On April 27, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:30 pm and 4:31 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 045-035 of the White House Tapes.
On April 27, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, Stephen B. Bull, and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 5:00 pm and 5:37 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 906-014 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discussed a strategic plan to manage the mounting Watergate crisis ahead of a forthcoming presidential speech. Ziegler proposed that Nixon appoint William P. Rogers as Attorney General to lead the Justice Department, arguing this move would provide a "masterstroke" that separates the President from the ongoing investigation. The pair also coordinated the handling of H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and John Dean, focusing on the implementation of forced leaves of absence to stabilize the administration while maintaining the President's personal defense against allegations.
President Nixon rehearsed his televised address to the nation regarding the Watergate scandal, in which he publicly accepted responsibility for the actions of his administration while announcing the resignations of several close associates. During the speech, he emphasized the need to restore public trust, detailed his directive for full cooperation with investigations, and announced the appointment of Elliot Richardson as the new Attorney General with the authority to potentially name a special prosecutor. The practice session allowed the President to refine his message of accountability and his pledge to ensure that justice would be pursued impartially.
President Nixon and newly appointed Attorney General Elliot Richardson spoke to discuss the fallout of the Watergate scandal and Richardson's upcoming confirmation. Richardson expressed strong support for the President’s recent televised address, while Nixon reaffirmed his confidence in Richardson's ability to handle the investigation. The two touched upon the sensitive issue of appointing a special prosecutor, with Nixon granting Richardson full autonomy to decide how to proceed while promising his complete backing in the pursuit of the truth.
President Nixon consulted Secretary of State William P. Rogers regarding the political pressure to appoint a special prosecutor for the Watergate investigation. Nixon expressed concern over how to advise incoming Attorney General Elliot Richardson on handling the potential Senate resolution. The two agreed to approach the issue cautiously, viewing the push for a special prosecutor as a tactical challenge to the administration’s authority.
President Nixon and Attorney General-designate Elliot Richardson discuss the impending appointment of a Special Prosecutor to investigate the Watergate scandal. They agree that while Richardson should appoint an independent figure to oversee the investigation, he must retain ultimate authority and responsibility as Attorney General rather than fully abdicating oversight. Richardson plans to consult with Senate Judiciary Committee members to ensure his proposed management structure, which includes replacing Henry E. Petersen, maintains his command while satisfying congressional demands for integrity.
President Nixon and Elliot Richardson discuss the ongoing Watergate investigations and the political challenges surrounding the nomination of a new special prosecutor. Nixon emphasizes that as Attorney General, Richardson holds absolute authority over the investigation and suggests replacing Henry Petersen to alleviate public pressure. The two men agree on the importance of Richardson maintaining control while navigating the expectations of the Senate.
President Nixon informs John Ehrlichman of his decision to appoint Alexander M. Haig, Jr. as White House Chief of Staff to manage staff operations. The two men also discuss the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on the extent of the Justice Department's prior knowledge regarding the break-in. They emphasize that Egil Krogh and John Dean allegedly communicated this information to officials such as Elliot Richardson and Henry Petersen, a narrative they intend to use to justify their own conduct.
President Nixon met with Attorney General Richard Kleindienst to coordinate their accounts regarding the Justice Department's handling of evidence related to the break-in at Daniel Ellsberg's psychiatrist's office. They focused on establishing that the administration had acted appropriately by investigating John W. Dean III’s allegations for nine days before reporting the findings to the judge, and they emphasized that no usable evidence was ever obtained from the break-in. Nixon directed Kleindienst to assure incoming Attorney General Elliot Richardson that the President had no prior knowledge of the break-in and had consistently instructed officials to cooperate fully with investigations.
Alexander Haig and Leonard Garment coordinated on the status of legal filings regarding Watergate-related documents and communications with the Justice Department. Garment confirmed that a motion had been filed and agreed to press for updates from the court via Justice Department channels. Additionally, the pair briefly discussed the competence of an unnamed individual, with Garment expressing confidence in the person's performance relative to previous alternatives.
President Nixon met with Henry E. Petersen to discuss the ongoing Watergate investigation, the appointment of a special prosecutor, and the administration's continued cooperation with the Justice Department. Nixon emphasized his desire for transparency and his frustration with the perceived leaks and the handling of the Daniel Ellsberg case, specifically regarding the unauthorized entry into his psychiatrist's office. The two also addressed concerns about the impact of the Ervin Committee's televised hearings on the ability of key figures like John Mitchell to receive a fair trial.
On May 15, 1973, J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. and Doug Parker talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:21 pm and 5:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 046-068 of the White House Tapes.
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 and Alexander Haig met to discuss managing the escalating fallout from the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on reports linking White House staff to negative stories about Thomas Eagleton. They reviewed personnel moves, including relocating Lawrence Higby and Tod Hullin to the Old Executive Office Building to protect them from public scrutiny. Nixon explored the potential for a national security-focused speech regarding the Huston Plan and requested a thorough Department of Justice investigation into suspicious claims involving a doctor's letter and alleged government interference.
On May 23, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:01 pm and 4:05 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 046-174 of the White House Tapes.
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 met with newly appointed Attorney General Elliot L. Richardson to discuss the administration of the Justice Department, personnel appointments, and the ongoing Watergate scandal. Nixon emphasized the importance of maintaining strict executive privilege regarding presidential papers while encouraging Richardson to take a proactive leadership role in national security and law enforcement issues. The two also addressed the necessity of curbing government leaks, which Nixon argued were damaging to sensitive foreign policy negotiations, including those involving the Soviet Union and China.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig met to coordinate White House strategy regarding the Watergate scandal and the forthcoming economic Phase IV program. They discussed the necessity of adopting a more aggressive posture against Democratic political maneuvers and media leaks, specifically expressing frustration with the performance of staff members who maintained unauthorized contacts with reporters. Nixon also evaluated the current Justice Department leadership, particularly Attorney General Elliot Richardson, emphasizing the need for loyal, decisive action in managing legal challenges and personnel appointments.
President Nixon dictated a memorandum to clarify his priorities for the Department of Justice, specifically directing Attorney General Elliot L. Richardson to refocus the department's agenda. The President emphasized his dissatisfaction with the current trajectory, urging a strategic pivot from a focus on social justice back toward the administration’s original emphasis on law and order. This directive served as a formal articulation of the President’s expectations regarding the department's core objectives.