Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on H. R. Haldeman
1,204 conversations · page 12 of 13 · frequently with Nixon, Haig, Ziegler, Haldeman
In this discussion, President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman deliberate on the appointment of Alexander M. Haig, Jr. as an interim White House Chief of Staff to provide firm leadership amidst the unfolding Watergate crisis. The President stresses the need for a strong figure capable of controlling White House staff members like Leonard Garment and George Shultz, while also managing Henry Kissinger. They agree that Haig should be brought in immediately on a temporary basis to command operations, with the potential for a permanent arrangement to be decided later.
President Nixon met with Henry Kissinger and Alexander Haig to discuss the fallout from the Watergate scandal, specifically comparing the current crisis to the Sherman Adams controversy during the Eisenhower administration. Following Kissinger's departure, Nixon and Haig deliberated on Haig taking over staff management duties to replace H.R. Haldeman. They ultimately decided that Haig would transition into an interim role as Chief of Staff, with Haig tasked to handle the logistics of the appointment while keeping his military rank.
President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone on an unknown date, sometime between 10:52 am on May 8, 1973 and 7:38 am on May 9, 1973. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 045-165 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler met to review the messaging surrounding the administration's stance on the Watergate scandal, specifically regarding the wording of press briefings and the parameters of executive privilege. The discussion focused on managing media inquiries concerning potential testimony from H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, the status of John Dean, and the appointment of a special prosecutor. Nixon emphasized the importance of maintaining that his staff should testify about their own activities while consistently affirming the President's lack of prior knowledge regarding criminal involvement.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig strategize on how to coordinate testimony and mitigate damage regarding H.R. Haldeman’s interactions with John Dean amidst the escalating Watergate investigation. Nixon emphasizes the need to prevent Dean from controlling the narrative or inflicting further harm on the presidency, while urging caution regarding the upcoming meeting with Elliot Richardson. The pair discusses the potential risks of appearing inconsistent with previous public statements, particularly those challenged by journalist Jack Anderson, and seeks to balance their desired appearance of pursuing the truth against the threat posed by Dean's cooperation with prosecutors.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler met to devise a strategy to counter potential testimony from John W. Dean III before the Ervin Committee. The pair discussed discrediting Dean by emphasizing his role in the original Watergate investigation and framing his upcoming testimony as self-serving and unreliable. They also addressed legal concerns regarding executive privilege and the protection of presidential papers, while coordinating efforts to handle inquiries about White House involvement in payments to defendants and the manipulation of intelligence documents.
President Nixon instructed Alexander Haig to ensure H. R. Haldeman testified fully before the Grand Jury regarding his upcoming appearance. Fearing an appearance of obstruction, Nixon explicitly directed Haig to communicate that Haldeman should not cite executive privilege to withhold details about conversations in the Oval Office. The conversation served to emphasize the need for transparency to prevent the perception of a cover-up.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman spoke to prepare for Haldeman's upcoming Grand Jury appearance related to the Watergate scandal. The two discussed strategies for navigating testimony, emphasizing that their focus had been on managing the political fallout rather than participating in illegal activities or a cover-up. Nixon reaffirmed his ownership of all presidential papers, including Haldeman's personal notes and logs, as a means to shield sensitive internal documentation from investigators.
President Nixon met with Ronald Ziegler and Alexander Haig to coordinate a strategy for responding to the unfolding Watergate crisis, specifically focusing on managing John Dean’s potential revelations and impending Senate committee hearings. The group discussed utilizing executive privilege to protect presidential papers and staff notes while simultaneously orchestrating a public relations counterattack to challenge the media narrative. They also explored legal tactics to delay Senate proceedings by highlighting potential jeopardy to the rights of defendants like H.R. Haldeman and John Mitchell.
President Nixon met with Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler to coordinate the White House's public relations strategy regarding the escalating Watergate scandal. The discussion focused on managing the fallout from the resignations of H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, as well as formulating a response to allegations made by John Dean. Nixon and Ziegler also strategized on how to discuss the integrity of the justice system during upcoming public appearances without appearing defensive or allowing the scandal to paralyze the government.
On May 9, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Thomas Hart met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 4:15 pm and 6:03 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 432-042 of the White House Tapes.
On May 9, 1973, Alexander M. Haig, Jr. and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:35 pm and 7:55 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 045-177 of the White House Tapes.
Alexander M. Haig, Jr. and H. R. Haldeman discuss concerns regarding Haldeman’s upcoming grand jury testimony and the potential subpoena of his personal notes. Haig expresses alarm over reports that Haldeman’s lawyers might have provided copies of these notes to the White House counsel, which could compromise claims of executive privilege. Haldeman clarifies that he possesses no copies outside the White House and confirms that he will return any existing extracts to his secure files to mitigate legal vulnerabilities.
Alexander Haig and J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. discuss the legal implications surrounding H.R. Haldeman’s possession of White House documents. The participants aim to clarify whether Haldeman improperly removed materials from the building, as Buzhardt expresses concern over a conflicting report from Haldeman’s lawyer. Haig emphasizes the necessity for caution regarding the defense's access to these records following his recent consultation with the President.
On May 9, 1973, Alexander M. Haig, Jr. and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:55 pm and 7:55 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 045-180 of the White House Tapes.
Alexander Haig and H. R. Haldeman coordinate to manage internal conflicts between their respective legal teams regarding the handling of sensitive Watergate-related documents. They discuss a potentially damaging document involving a March 26, 1973, phone call from John Dean, which Haldeman asserts is protected by executive privilege and unrelated to his private conversations with the President. To resolve the friction, they decide to remove Leonard Garment from the process and establish direct communication between J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr., and Haldeman’s legal counsel to ensure a unified strategy.
Alexander Haig updates President Nixon on the positive public reception of the President's speech at the New Majority Dinner, while both men dismiss concerns regarding resignation and impeachment. Nixon emphasizes his firm stance on executive privilege, explicitly directing that no ground be yielded on the release of written documents. To manage the ongoing Watergate fallout, Nixon instructs Haig to sideline Leonard Garment and coordinate efforts through J. Fred Buzhardt, who is tasked with working closely with H.R. Haldeman and Senator John C. Stennis.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig met to strategize on the administration's response to the escalating Watergate crisis, focusing on managing public perception and protecting White House documents. They discussed the legal handling of materials belonging to H.R. Haldeman, Charles Colson, and John Ehrlichman, as well as the importance of maintaining a unified front to counter allegations of presidential involvement. Additionally, the pair evaluated personnel matters, including the confirmation of Elliot Richardson as Attorney General and the potential for a counter-offensive by leveraging information on previous administrations' abuses of power.
On May 10, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:57 am and 11:01 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 915-008 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss strategic planning regarding the ongoing Watergate scandal, focusing heavily on legal defense preparations and the upcoming Senate hearings. They evaluated the status of John Dean’s potential testimony, the management of legal fees for White House staff through the Committee to Re-Elect the President, and the importance of maintaining a consistent public stance regarding White House involvement. Additionally, the two discussed post-administration employment prospects for Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, emphasizing the necessity of securing continued security clearances and access to files for historical documentation.
On May 10, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at 3:10 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 045-192 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss a potential inaccuracy regarding the reported attendance of Horace “Chappie” Rose at a previous meeting involving Leonard Garment and J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. Nixon expresses concern that misinformation about meeting participants is circulating and causing confusion. The two men agree to clarify whether Rose was indeed absent, highlighting the President’s focus on controlling the narrative and accuracy of internal reporting during this period.
Alexander M. Haig, Jr. updates President Nixon on his discussions with J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. regarding recent legal meetings involving H.R. Haldeman’s counsel and Horace "Chappie" Rose. The conversation centers on clarifying Rose’s level of involvement in these meetings and addressing internal anxieties regarding potential misinformation conveyed by Leonard Garment. Nixon and Haig conclude by reaffirming their trust in Rose’s integrity while seeking to minimize staff tensions regarding the handling of sensitive information.
On May 10, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:24 pm and 4:42 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 045-198 of the White House Tapes.
On May 10, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:04 pm and 5:17 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 045-206 of the White House Tapes.
On May 10, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:04 pm and 5:17 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 045-207 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to coordinate an upcoming meeting with H. R. Haldeman. The discussion focused on locating Haldeman, who was reportedly conferring with Lawrence M. Higby at the time. Bull facilitated the scheduling, confirming that Haldeman was nearby and ready to meet with the President.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, and Alexander Haig discussed the Watergate investigation, focusing on potential CIA involvement, the role of various individuals like L. Patrick Gray and Vernon Walters, and the implications of their testimony and memoranda. They strategized on how to present their accounts, particularly concerning meetings with Walters and Helms, and the nature of any discussions about limiting the investigation or providing cover stories. The conversation also touched upon executive privilege, the release of documents, and the broader implications of the unfolding scandal for national security and the administration.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig met to discuss managing the ongoing Watergate investigation and coordinating the testimony of CIA Deputy Director Vernon Walters. Nixon emphasized that he wanted Walters to reassure officials like Elliot Richardson, William Colby, and James Schlesinger of the President’s innocence and his desire for a full investigation. The conversation centered on the potential legal exposure of H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, the status of sensitive memoranda of conversation, and ensuring the loyalty of key administration appointees amidst the political fallout.
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 instructed Alexander Haig to manage the morale of staff members—specifically referencing Bob [Haldeman] and John [Ehrlichman]—by discouraging apocalyptic rhetoric regarding impeachment or legal jeopardy. Nixon directed Haig to reassure these individuals that the administration remains supportive and committed to their defense to prevent them from losing confidence. The primary objective was to ensure that distressed associates felt the White House was actively fighting on their behalf rather than conceding to the growing pressures of the Watergate scandal.
On May 11, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:53 pm and 2:56 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 046-010 of the White House Tapes.
On May 11, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 6:47 pm and 7:08 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-005 of the White House Tapes.
On May 11, 1973, Camp David operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 6:47 pm and 7:08 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Roy Ash discussed the administration's economic policy, specifically affirming their rejection of a price freeze despite pressure from some advisors. They also coordinated cabinet management strategies, with Nixon tasking Ash to reassure Caspar Weinberger regarding his continued importance as a key domestic counselor. Finally, the President reflected on the recent, painful resignations of H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, reiterating that these departures were necessary steps for the administration to move past the Watergate scandal.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discussed the ongoing Watergate investigation, focusing on managing the public and legal narrative surrounding H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. Nixon sought to convince Haig that interactions between his aides and the CIA were not a conspiratorial attempt to orchestrate a cover-up, but rather an effort to keep the CIA out of the investigation. The two men coordinated on strategies for upcoming grand jury testimony, specifically considering the use of executive privilege to protect Haldeman from potential perjury charges while emphasizing the need to ensure favorable, non-incriminating testimony from figures like Vernon Walters.
On May 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 10:20 am and 10:21 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 165-037 of the White House Tapes.
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 met with Lawrence Higby to discuss the location and existence of specific political memoranda that might have been shared with John Dean or H.R. Haldeman. Concerned about the potential impact of these documents in the context of the Watergate investigation, Nixon instructed Higby to verify their existence by consulting secretaries Beverly Kaye and Rose Mary Woods. The conversation also touched upon the sensitivity of national security documents mentioned by Dean in court and potential unauthorized activities involving E. Howard Hunt.
On May 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:28 am and 11:40 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 917-014 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon reviews past instructions intended for H.R. Haldeman regarding George H.W. Bush by listening to previously recorded dictabelt tapes. He also consults with George P. Shultz to discuss ongoing difficulties concerning the Labor Management Committee and the composition of its membership. The pair evaluates international economic affairs and specific administrative memos to address current organizational challenges.
President Nixon reviewed personal dictabelt recordings and memos to document his internal thoughts and prior communications regarding the unfolding Watergate scandal. He assessed the legal and political vulnerabilities of key staff members, including H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and John Dean, while considering potential legal strategies involving immunity and clemency. The session served as a retrospective evaluation of his administration's handling of the crisis and his efforts to establish a clear record of his knowledge and decision-making.
President Nixon met with Lawrence Higby and Alexander Haig to discuss the unfolding Watergate scandal, focusing on the potential legal vulnerabilities of H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. Nixon expressed concerns regarding the motives and credibility of John Dean, specifically speculating about his possession of sensitive files and his efforts to secure immunity. The participants assessed the likely impact of forthcoming Ervin Committee testimony, emphasizing the need to maintain executive privilege and protect the administration from legal fallout.
President Nixon and Lawrence Higby discussed the ongoing Watergate crisis, specifically focusing on rebutting false allegations regarding the President's personal finances and the San Clemente property. They evaluated the hostile actions of John W. Dean III, analyzed the legal implications of grand jury testimony for former aides H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, and brainstormed public relations strategies to defend the presidency. The conversation emphasized a commitment to fighting these accusations through a more proactive and organized White House communications approach.
President Nixon met with Ronald Ziegler, Alexander Haig, and Leonard Garment to manage the administration's defensive response to ongoing Watergate investigations and emerging media scrutiny regarding the President's personal finances. The group discussed the legal and political implications of recent testimony from Lt. Gen. Vernon Walters, concerns regarding potential indictments of senior staff, and the management of sensitive documents related to the Huston Plan. Nixon emphasized maintaining a strategy of resilience, rejecting the idea of constant public rebuttals, while coordinating efforts to handle inquiries from the Ervin Committee and prosecutors without further damaging the presidency.
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 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 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 directed Alexander Haig to contact H.R. Haldeman regarding his recent meeting with Richard Helms, Vernon Walters, and John Ehrlichman. Nixon expressed frustration over the perception of a cover-up and instructed Haig to reassure Haldeman that their actions were based on presidential directives to investigate the matter. The discussion highlights Nixon’s effort to manage the fallout of the Watergate scandal by ensuring his staff remained firm in their defense against the ongoing investigation.
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.
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.
On May 18, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Manolo Sanchez met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 3:00 pm and 3:35 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 437-016 of the White House Tapes.
On May 18, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander M. Haig, Jr. met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 4:34 pm and 5:00 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 437-020 of the White House Tapes.
On May 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 10:56 am and 11:00 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 167-008 of the White House Tapes.
On May 20, 1973, Camp David operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at Camp David at 11:30 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 167-009 of the White House Tapes.
On May 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 12:54 pm and 2:30 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 167-011 of the White House Tapes.
On May 20, 1973, Camp David operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at Camp David at 2:30 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 167-012 of the White House Tapes.
On May 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 3:15 pm and 3:30 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 167-019 of the White House Tapes.
On May 20, 1973, Camp David operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at Camp David at 3:30 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 167-020 of the White House Tapes.
On May 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 4:21 pm and 5:30 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 167-026 of the White House Tapes.
On May 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 6:55 pm and 7:05 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 167-030 of the White House Tapes.
On May 20, 1973, Camp David operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at Camp David at 7:05 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 167-031 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Ronald Ziegler and Alexander Haig to strategize the White House response to the escalating Watergate scandal and manage public perception of his embattled administration. They discussed the tactical release of a forthcoming White Paper, the management of congressional and press relations, and the necessity of distancing the President from staff members implicated in the investigation, such as H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. Nixon and his advisors resolved to maintain a posture of command by focusing on national policy, specifically upcoming economic initiatives and the summit with Leonid Brezhnev, to project stability while weathering the ongoing controversy.
President Nixon met with Alexander Haig and Ronald Ziegler to coordinate the White House's public relations and legal strategy regarding the upcoming release of a Watergate "White Paper." The participants discussed the drafting of the document, the importance of controlling the narrative, and how to brief Congressional leaders on its contents to clear the air. A significant portion of the conversation focused on crafting the President’s official account of his knowledge—specifically regarding the Daniel Ellsberg break-in and the roles of H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and John Dean—to ensure the documentation presented him in a favorable light.
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 met with Raymond Price, Alexander Haig, and J. Fred Buzhardt to strategize the content and presentation of a White House White Paper regarding the Watergate scandal. The group focused on drafting a cover statement that addressed specific controversies, including the funding of defendants, the Ellsberg break-in, and the involvement of key aides like H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. They also discussed plans to brief influential Congressional leaders, such as Henry Jackson and Barry Goldwater, to ensure consistent messaging regarding prior statements and wiretaps.
President Nixon met with Nellie L. Yates and Manolo Sanchez to discuss the prevailing climate of the administration during the ongoing Watergate scandal. The participants exchanged impressions regarding public reaction, the President’s current mood, and the departure of key aides H.R. Haldeman and John D. Ehrlichman. Nixon also provided administrative instructions to Yates concerning the delivery of a book to Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler.
On May 24, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 1:00 pm and 1:27 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 440-031 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler met to discuss the administration's public relations strategy, focusing on countering unfavorable media coverage regarding the Watergate scandal and upcoming appearances by administration officials before the Ervin Committee. Nixon expressed frustration with the committee's procedural lack of due process, comparing its hearings to an "inquisition" and "assassination of character," while Ziegler provided updates on press reaction to the President's recent statements. They agreed to maintain a low-key, routine response to current press inquiries while preparing for a more aggressive, public pushback after the President's return from an upcoming trip to Iceland.
President Nixon contacted H. R. Haldeman, who was at his legal counsel's office, to arrange a meeting prior to the President's upcoming three-day trip to Iceland. Nixon requested that Haldeman travel to the Executive Office Building to discuss various outstanding matters. The two agreed that Haldeman would arrive at the EOB within approximately thirty minutes to begin their consultation.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman engage in a brief, disjointed discussion regarding the logistics and timing of their communication. The dialogue centers on the inconvenience of late-night contact and the President's preference for Haldeman to handle certain matters independently. No major policy decisions are reached during this momentary exchange.
On June 2, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 10:29 am and 10:54 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 168-010 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the political fallout and public perception of recent televised testimony regarding the Watergate scandal. Haldeman reviews his own recent testimony and that of John Ehrlichman, emphasizing their use of categorical denials and strategic framing of national security concerns to distance the President from the cover-up. They assess the tactics of the Ervin Committee, potential immunity for witnesses like John Dean, and the ongoing efforts by special prosecutor Archibald Cox to manage the investigation.
On June 2, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 11:24 am and 11:38 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 168-014 of the White House Tapes.
On June 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at 10:35 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 168-025 of the White House Tapes.
On June 3, 1973, Camp David operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at Camp David at 10:35 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 168-026 of the White House Tapes.
On June 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 12:30 pm and 12:35 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 168-031 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the White House's public relations strategy regarding the escalating Watergate scandal and the ongoing efforts of John W. Dean III to leverage information for immunity. The President instructs his staff to avoid getting bogged down in daily rebuttals of Dean’s allegations, preferring to focus on substantive administration business and scheduled public appearances to project stability. Nixon directs H. R. Haldeman to compile a comprehensive chronology of events to clarify the President's lack of involvement in questionable activities, while Ziegler confirms the administration’s plan to delay public responses to avoid providing Dean with information that he could use in his testimony.
On June 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 3:27 pm and 3:29 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 168-037 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman coordinated a meeting to discuss the reconstruction of a Watergate event chronology. After briefly discussing weather conditions and a hand injury sustained by Haldeman, the two agreed to meet at 4:15 p.m. to review these sensitive materials. They ultimately decided to convene in the Lincoln Room to ensure the conversation regarding the timeline remained secure.
President Nixon and Ronald Ziegler discussed strategies to counter allegations made by former White House counsel John W. Dean regarding the Watergate cover-up. They focused on discrediting Dean's credibility through planted media columns, preparing a speech for Vice President Agnew, and providing information to Congressional allies like Hugh Scott. Nixon adamantly refuted specific claims about the number of meetings and alleged orders, while they planned to have Alexander Haig secure and review Dean's files to assess his activities. Additionally, the pair coordinated a shift in Ziegler’s public role and communications responsibilities to mitigate the political impact of the ongoing scandal.
President Nixon directs Stephen B. Bull to prioritize organizing a chronology of his meetings and telephone conversations from March 1973 over the previously requested April 16th materials. Nixon tasks Bull with coordinating directly with H. R. Haldeman to secure the necessary records, suggesting that Haldeman or Ronald Ziegler should possess the relevant documentation. This directive highlights the administration's urgent efforts to compile a comprehensive record of the President's interactions with John W. Dean III amidst the ongoing Watergate investigations.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to coordinate the review and management of White House tape recordings. The discussion focused on the logistics of auditing these tapes, specifically regarding recordings of the President's meetings with John W. Dean III and the involvement of H.R. Haldeman. They reviewed the length and content of pending recordings to assess the presence of additional staff members and determine the scope of necessary documentation.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss updates on economic policy planning and the ongoing Watergate investigation. Haig reports that J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. has thoroughly searched John Dean's files and found no evidence of documentation, leading them to believe Dean is bluffing or being manipulated by his legal counsel. Meanwhile, Nixon details his personal review of the White House tapes, noting that he is methodically analyzing his past meetings with Dean to understand the extent of staff involvement and potential cover-up efforts.
On June 4, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:54 pm and 10:04 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 039-080 of the White House Tapes.
On June 4, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:20 pm and 10:21 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 039-082 of the White House Tapes.
On June 4, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:22 pm and 10:50 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 039-084 of the White House Tapes.
On June 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:44 pm and 4:46 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 039-116 of the White House Tapes.
On June 6, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at 4:46 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 039-117 of the White House Tapes.
On June 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:31 pm and 8:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 039-125 of the White House Tapes.
On June 6, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at 8:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 039-126 of the White House Tapes.
On June 7, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:41 pm and 7:46 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 039-142 of the White House Tapes.
On June 7, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman talked on the telephone from 7:46 pm to 7:47 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 039-143 of the White House Tapes.
On June 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:11 pm and 12:16 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 040-104 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to discuss logistical arrangements for the presentation of diplomatic credentials and the scheduling of his daily agenda. The President expressed frustration with the lack of substantive discussion caused by the presence of families during these ceremonies and sought to streamline the proceedings. Additionally, the conversation touched on communications involving H.R. Haldeman and Hobart D. Lewis regarding scheduling and administrative matters.
On June 14, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at 12:16 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 040-105 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to discuss administrative logistics and coordinate communication with former Chief of Staff H.R. Haldeman. The President also addressed his upcoming schedule, specifically regarding a meeting with Alexander M. Haig, Jr. Additionally, the conversation included brief personal arrangements concerning a food order.
On June 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:33 pm and 3:46 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 040-109 of the White House Tapes.
On June 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at 3:46 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 040-110 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr., Ronald L. Ziegler, and Henry A. Kissinger to manage the intensifying political fallout from the Watergate scandal. The discussion focused on countering the testimony of key figures like John Dean and Jeb Magruder, specifically addressing their allegations regarding the White House's involvement in a cover-up and potential efforts to influence civil litigation. Nixon expressed frustration over the perceived lack of support from Republican legislators and strategized with his team on how to discredit Dean's testimony while maintaining the President's public narrative of non-involvement.