Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on John B. Connally
600 conversations · page 5 of 6 · frequently with Nixon, Haldeman, Connally, Bull
President Nixon met with an unknown individual to discuss the aftermath of the attempted assassination of George Wallace. The participants exchanged commentary on Wallace’s controversial rhetoric, debating the extent to which his political style incited hostility. Additionally, the conversation briefly touched upon Senator Jacob Javits and the political skill of John Connally.
Following the assassination attempt on Governor George Wallace, President Nixon and John Connally discussed the political fallout and the immediate need to provide enhanced Secret Service protection to other presidential candidates, specifically Senator Edward M. Kennedy and Representative Shirley Chisholm. The participants deliberated on how to frame these security measures publicly while bypassing legal obstacles that previously barred the Secret Service from covering non-candidates. During the discussion, Connally recounted his personal experience surviving the John F. Kennedy assassination, providing a grim context for the ongoing concern over the safety of political figures.
On May 15, 1972, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:24 pm and 5:30 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 024-086 of the White House Tapes.
On May 15, 1972, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:30 pm and 5:38 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 024-088 of the White House Tapes.
John B. Connally calls Senator Edward M. Kennedy on behalf of President Nixon to offer him full Secret Service protection following the recent shooting of George Wallace. Connally emphasizes that the President considers Kennedy highly vulnerable and insists on providing security regardless of legal interpretations regarding candidate status. The two agree to begin with temporary arrangements while coordinating with Secret Service leadership, with Connally urging Kennedy to accept the protection for his own safety.
On May 15, 1972, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:52 pm and 5:54 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 024-092 of the White House Tapes.
Following the assassination attempt on Governor George Wallace, President Nixon and John Connally directed Treasury official Eugene Rossides to immediately assign Secret Service protection to various presidential candidates. Connally coordinated the dispatch of agents to Edward Kennedy and Shirley Chisholm, while also instructing Rossides to provide a reduced security detail for other candidates like Wilbur Mills and Patsy Mink. The participants further discussed the status of other candidates' travel plans and the logistics for releasing official statements regarding these expanded protective measures.
On May 15, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:59 pm and 8:02 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 024-114 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon called Rose Mary Woods to discuss her potentially joining him at Camp David, but she explained she needed to attend a funeral due to a death in the family. The conversation then shifted to the recent attack on George C. Wallace, with Nixon expressing his decision to order protection for Edward M. Kennedy, which he and John B. Connally had worked out, citing the need to prevent blame if something were to happen to Kennedy.
President Nixon instructed H. R. Haldeman to contact Secretary of State William P. Rogers regarding the upcoming announcement of John B. Connally’s resignation during a Cabinet meeting. The discussion focused on coordinating the messaging and anticipating Rogers's reaction to the personnel shift. Additionally, the President reviewed logistics for his scheduled walk to the Treasury Department.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss domestic political support for the Vietnam War effort ahead of the President's upcoming Soviet trip, emphasizing the need for congressional unity rather than a cutoff of funds. The two discussed maintaining a firm negotiating stance with North Vietnam, specifically regarding the necessity of a ceasefire and the return of POWs as non-negotiable conditions. Additionally, they reviewed the upcoming resignation of Secretary of the Treasury John Connally and the subsequent appointment of George Shultz as his successor.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discussed the President's upcoming schedule, specifically a meeting with John B. Connally. The conversation was brief, with Haldeman indicating Connally's imminent departure. No significant decisions or action items beyond the scheduling note were recorded.
President Nixon and John B. Connally discuss the logistics of Connally's upcoming diplomatic trip to Latin America, which is intended to counter regional influence while Nixon visits the Soviet Union. The two also coordinate the transition of the Treasury Department leadership, planning a joint walk to the department to announce George P. Shultz as the successor to the resigning Connally. Additionally, they touch upon recent international diplomatic missions, including Henry Kissinger's trip to the People's Republic of China and William P. Rogers' NATO engagement.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met briefly in the Oval Office to coordinate the President's upcoming schedule. The discussion focused on logistics for a planned walk to the Treasury Department to meet with John B. Connally and George P. Shultz. The meeting was briefly interrupted by an unknown individual for the delivery of a food order.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to strategize the press narrative surrounding Treasury Secretary John B. Connally’s resignation, specifically aiming to preempt speculation linking the departure to the recent shooting of George C. Wallace or Texas political dynamics. They discussed the content of the President’s statement, emphasizing that the timing was pre-planned during a January meeting in San Clemente rather than reactive. Additionally, they touched upon the personal transition for Nellie Connally, comparing her reluctance to leave Washington with the Nixons' own past experiences with relocation.
President Nixon informed his wife, Pat, via telephone that John Connally had agreed to resign from his position after the Russian trip, a decision driven by his wife's dislike of Washington D.C. The President expressed that Connally's departure would be a significant loss due to his crucial need in his current role.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, John Connally, George Shultz, Caspar Weinberger, and Ronald Ziegler to coordinate the logistics and press strategy surrounding Connally's resignation as Secretary of the Treasury. The participants discussed handling media inquiries regarding Connally's potential political future, including questions about the Vice Presidency and the Democratic National Convention. Following the discussion, the group planned a walk to the Treasury Department to introduce Shultz to the staff and address the transition publicly.
President Nixon met with an unknown female guest and Zosimo T. Monzon to briefly coordinate personal scheduling and logistics, including upcoming travel plans and a dinner engagement. The discussion touched upon a recent trip involving John B. Connally and the President's recent visit to a hospitalized individual. The participants concluded the brief session by confirming personal arrangements and administrative tasks.
President Nixon and Ronald Ziegler discussed press coverage of Nixon's walk and his upcoming departure for the Soviet Union Summit. Ziegler confirmed that reporters who accompanied Nixon on his walk briefed the press, and that Nixon's statement about leaving on Saturday was the first official confirmation. Ziegler also provided a briefing on statements made by Nixon and John B. Connally, emphasizing key points from their discussions, and noted positive press reaction and good photographs, particularly in light of the George Wallace shooting.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed the Senate vote on the Robert C. Byrd amendment, expressing surprise and disappointment at the votes of Senators Taft, Schweiker, Percy, and Mathias. They also discussed the handling of John Connally's departure from the Treasury Department and the President's decision to walk through a crowd to the Treasury building, which generated positive press coverage. Additionally, they touched upon the assault on George Wallace, including the attacker's potential political affiliations and the planning of the assassination, as well as the President's Vietnam blockade strategy and its potential impact on the upcoming election, particularly concerning labor support.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull and an unknown individual to coordinate upcoming logistical and scheduling matters. The discussion centered on arrangements for a trip to Camp David, preparations for an impending Soviet visit, and the scheduling of a meeting with John Cardinal Krol. Additionally, the group addressed administrative concerns regarding personnel workloads, including those of Rose Mary Woods and Marjorie P. Acker, alongside the receipt of materials from John B. Connally.
On May 17, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator met in the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David at an unknown time between 9:33 am and 9:34 am. The Camp David Hard Wire taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 189-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman met to finalize logistical and rhetorical preparations for the upcoming Soviet Union summit, specifically focusing on speech guidelines and the efficient management of briefing materials. The discussion extended to 1972 election strategy, where Nixon emphasized the political necessity of adopting a strong stance on busing in key states based on George Wallace’s recent primary performance. Furthermore, they addressed ongoing frustrations with Senate opposition to Vietnam War policies and the need to maintain engagement with John Connally during his transition period.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and Henry Kissinger at Camp David to dictate memoranda regarding administrative management and foreign policy strategy. The discussion focused on establishing editorial accountability during absences, coordinating leaks through Richard Helms to counter negative reporting on North Vietnam, and planning a high-profile diplomatic trip for John B. Connally to Latin America and the Pacific. Nixon directed his staff to finalize recommendations for the Connally mission and strategic communication efforts by the end of the week.
On May 19, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:25 pm and 3:49 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 024-161 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and John B. Connally to coordinate strategy for the upcoming U.S.-Soviet summit and to organize a diplomatic trip for Connally to South America and potentially other regions. The participants discussed managing the President's public image, strategies to discredit the press, and the logistics of personnel attending the Moscow trip. Additionally, Nixon directed Connally to begin planning his international travel, emphasizing the strategic importance of his mission following the President's return from the Soviet Union.
President Nixon and John B. Connally discuss the logistics and itinerary for Connally's upcoming three-week overseas trip to South America, Australia, and New Zealand. The President instructs Connally to travel via a presidential aircraft with a small staff and emphasizes the importance of keeping planning restricted to a select few to avoid bureaucratic interference. Additionally, they discuss the transition of Treasury responsibilities to George P. Shultz, with Nixon confirming that Shultz will assume the same high-level portfolios and economic authorities previously held by Connally.
President Nixon dictated a memorandum concerning the voting records of John Connally. He directed that the document be transmitted to Connally via a specific delivery sequence to ensure receipt at his second stop. This instruction aimed to prioritize the timely delivery of these voting details to the former Treasury Secretary.
President Nixon met with John B. Connally and Stephen B. Bull to provide instructions and background context for an upcoming international trip undertaken by Connally. The President dictated a memorandum outlining the mission's central theme, which focused on the shifting global balance of economic and political power among the U.S., Western Europe, the Soviet Union, China, and Japan. Nixon also shared personal reflections on his past travels to various nations to assist Connally in his engagements with foreign leaders.
President Nixon and his wife, Pat, discussed his upcoming travel plans. The conversation focused on the President's potential trip to Texas for the Rotary Convention and a commitment to John Connally, weighing the logistics of his schedule against the possibility of joining his wife at Camp David. They considered alternative travel arrangements to accommodate these commitments.
President Nixon and John Mitchell discussed potential public relations events and campaign strategy. They considered a photo opportunity with Philadelphia schoolchildren presenting petitions and Tricia Nixon speaking to the League of United Latin American Citizens. Mitchell also relayed John Connally's suggestion for Nixon to hold one-on-one meetings with military service chiefs to break military influence, though Nixon expressed concerns about timing and potential political fallout. The conversation concluded with a discussion of whether Nixon should participate in presidential debates, with Mitchell strongly advising against it based on previous statements and potential risks.
President Nixon met with aide Lawrence M. Higby to coordinate administrative tasks and discuss his upcoming schedule. The conversation touched upon the logistics of a Saturday morning in-office press conference and the potential involvement of John B. Connally. Additionally, the President ruminated on media perceptions of his campaign, emphasizing a desire to project a strong and vigorous public image.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to coordinate logistics for a televised statement regarding school busing, including teleprompter arrangements. The discussion also touched upon international economic policy, specifically the British reaction to currency devaluation and a potential follow-up call involving George P. Shultz and John B. Connally. This meeting served as a brief administrative session to finalize public messaging and manage ongoing foreign economic relations.
President Nixon and Charles W. Colson discussed the strategic timing of a forthcoming phone call from Colson to John B. Connally. The conversation focused on providing Connally with advance notice regarding news on import quotas and coordinating the announcement within the current political calendar. They aimed to manage the message as a temporary, controlled situation.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss strategies for the 1972 campaign, focusing specifically on the organization and launch of the 'Democrats for Nixon' effort led by John B. Connally. They review potential high-profile Democratic defectors, assess the economic landscape, and analyze the vulnerabilities of George McGovern, particularly regarding his temperament, defense policies, and stance on social issues like marijuana. The conversation highlights the administration's intent to utilize surrogates and aggressive political maneuvering to maintain the President's lead in the polls and prevent McGovern from building momentum.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed political strategy, including coordinating with John B. Connally regarding his upcoming media appearance and his appointment to the President’s Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board. They also reviewed ongoing military operations in Vietnam, agreeing that U.S. air power and B-52 strikes were successfully depleting North Vietnamese forces. Additionally, the pair strategized on how to counter potential campaign attacks from George McGovern concerning U.S. casualties, specifically by emphasizing that a significant portion of fatalities occurred during the previous administration.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed strategic communication tactics regarding the administration’s handling of political opponents and foreign policy optics. The discussion focused on coordinating messaging for an upcoming media appearance by John Connally, specifically regarding his potential appointments to advisory boards and his response to political inquiries. Furthermore, the two men addressed the necessity of maintaining a firm public stance against political criticism concerning the Vietnam War and the deployment of naval assets.
President Nixon and Charles W. Colson discussed the launch of the "Democrats for Nixon" organization, strategizing on how to leverage former Democratic Treasury Secretary John B. Connally to peel away traditional Democratic support from George McGovern. They reviewed upcoming media appearances by Connally and other candidates, agreeing to emphasize the theme of "loyal Democrats" as a means to differentiate their opposition from the McGovern platform. Additionally, the conversation touched upon the administration's political strategy regarding labor unions, polling data trends, and the necessity of forcing Republican candidates to formally request their opponents' positions on McGovern to create a negative wedge issue.
President Nixon dictated a memorandum for the file, reflecting on a Washington Post editorial concerning the exploitation of black African labor and discussing the media's coverage of the upcoming presidential election, particularly the perceived strengths and weaknesses of George McGovern and Hubert Humphrey. Nixon also recounted a conversation with John Connally regarding a potential press statement and noted that Connally would be actively campaigning until the election.
President Nixon called his daughter Julie Nixon Eisenhower to inform her that John Connally would be on "Meet the Press" and suggested she watch it. He also recommended the John Wayne movie "She Wore a Yellow Ribbon" for her and David to see. The conversation touched upon McGovern's stance on aid to Greece and its potential impact on NATO, and Nixon expressed disappointment that wedding photos were not prominently featured in the press, instructing Julie to have his office check for coverage.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinated their monitoring of televised Sunday talk shows, specifically focusing on John Connally’s upcoming appearance and George McGovern’s potential policy vulnerabilities regarding foreign aid and international relations. The pair discussed the political strategy of addressing McGovern’s debate requests, with both agreeing that the early proposal had been effectively neutralized by campaign staff. Additionally, they reviewed the positive media coverage surrounding Vice President Spiro Agnew’s recent press conference and discussed the timing of press reports regarding the firing of G. Gordon Liddy in relation to the FBI investigation.
President Nixon praises John B. Connally for his skillful performance in a recent television interview, specifically commending his ability to handle aggressive questioning and his effective communication of administration policy. They review Connally's framing of key issues, including the international monetary situation, the Vietnam War, and economic strategy. The conversation concludes with a brief discussion regarding a potential outreach call to a political contact to assist the President's agenda.
President Nixon calls John B. Connally to praise his recent appearance on "Meet the Press," specifically commending his adept handling of hostile questioning regarding the economy, the Vietnam War, and the Smithsonian Agreement. The two discuss political strategy, including how to frame the administration’s position against opponent George McGovern, and briefly touch on the effectiveness of Connally's appearance and wardrobe. Finally, Nixon decides to pursue political assistance from George Smathers and requests the name of Connally's tailor to commission a similar pinstripe suit.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman reviewed recent television interviews featuring Democratic presidential candidate George McGovern and former Treasury Secretary John Connally. The discussion focused on comparing their respective performances, with Nixon expressing high satisfaction with Connally's ability to act as a political "lightning rod" for the administration. They analyzed McGovern's vulnerabilities regarding labor support, foreign policy stances on Vietnam, and shifting economic proposals, ultimately concluding that Connally's effective critique of McGovern provided the administration with a significant political advantage.
President Nixon and Charles W. Colson reviewed recent television appearances by John B. Connally and George S. McGovern, discussing the efficacy of their respective political messages. Nixon praised Connally’s performance while expressing frustration over McGovern's policy stances, particularly regarding Vietnam, Thailand, and the Detroit busing case. The two also strategized on labor union endorsements and voter outreach, specifically emphasizing the importance of registering non-college youth to solidify support within the "silent majority."
President Nixon dictated a memorandum to John B. Connally, with a copy to Charles W. Colson, regarding the "Democrats for Nixon" organization. Nixon detailed efforts by George Smathers to recruit Democratic Senators and other officials to support Nixon's re-election, noting that Smathers had spoken with several key figures and would personally discuss the matter with Connally. The discussion also touched upon the potential impact of McGovern's candidacy on industries like Boeing and the strategy of supporting Democratic candidates for Senate and local offices while remaining neutral in the presidential race.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman reviewed the President’s upcoming schedule, focusing on facilitating direct lines of communication with John B. Connally and managing various White House staff members. They discussed logistics for an upcoming meeting with Connally, the coordination of Raymond K. Price’s speechwriting staff, and arrangements for a photograph opportunity involving drug enforcement officials. Stephen B. Bull joined the discussion to finalize the scheduling and press arrangements for these briefings.
On July 24, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 10:49 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 751-005 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John B. Connally met to discuss a variety of political and strategic issues, including international oil interests, legal investigations involving Jake Jacobsen, and the upcoming 1972 presidential election. Nixon dismissed concerns regarding the Watergate scandal, framing it as the work of lower-level committee members rather than the administration, while emphasizing his intention to focus on presidential duties rather than immediate, aggressive campaign whistle-stopping. The pair further discussed key campaign themes, contrasting Nixon's conservative judicial and fiscal philosophies with the policies of his opponent, George McGovern, whom they labeled a threat to national defense and economic stability.
President Nixon consulted with Henry Kissinger regarding the Vietnam War, foreign policy, and campaign-related fundraising issues. Nixon also held a telephone conversation with former President Lyndon B. Johnson to ensure that members of Johnson's circle would not be embarrassed by their potential support for John Connally's pro-Nixon Democratic fundraising organization. The discussion with Johnson further touched on providing security and diplomatic courtesies for upcoming travel by Lady Bird and Luci B. Johnson, as well as acknowledging the quiet support Johnson had provided the administration on critical national security matters.
President Richard M. Nixon and former President Lyndon B. Johnson engaged in a wide-ranging discussion concerning the 1972 presidential campaign, specifically focusing on John B. Connally’s efforts to organize the 'Democrats for Nixon' movement. The two leaders also discussed foreign policy, including perspectives on Vietnam and the role of former presidents in international affairs. Furthermore, the conversation touched upon logistical and security arrangements for upcoming travel and appointments involving prominent figures.
On July 24, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and John B. Connally met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 12:44 pm and 12:45 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 350-008 of the White House Tapes.
On July 24, 1972, 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 12:46 pm and 1:00 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 350-013 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Rose Mary Woods to discuss various personal matters, including family schedules, press coverage of the 1972 campaign, and reactions to media stories. Following this, Nixon held a phone conversation with Raymond A. Gallagher to express appreciation for his political support and to strategize on the "Democrats for Nixon" initiative. The discussions primarily centered on campaign outreach efforts, the strategic role of John B. Connally, and managing support from prominent Democrats and labor figures.
On July 25, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 1:33 pm and 2:29 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 752-011 of the White House Tapes.
On July 26, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:22 pm and 1:10 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 027-079 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John B. Connally discussed political strategy regarding Governor George Wallace, focusing on incorporating elements of his platform into the Republican campaign. They agreed to offer Wallace a national security briefing via Alexander Haig and planned to have campaign officials like Clark MacGregor or John Rhodes publicly acknowledge Wallace's contributions to national debate. Additionally, they decided to have Ed Morgan discreetly share the party's busing plank with Wallace's camp to foster potential alignment.
On July 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at 10:25 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 138-007 of the White House Tapes.
On July 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at 10:28 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 138-008 of the White House Tapes.
On July 30, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator met in the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David at 10:25 am. The Camp David Hard Wire taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 198-015 of the White House Tapes.
On July 31, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and John B. Connally talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:32 pm and 5:44 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 028-015 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon facilitates a brief phone call between Congressman Joe D. Waggonner, Jr. and John B. Connally to foster communication between the two men. Following introductory pleasantries, the conversation transitions into a casual, lighthearted exchange regarding the perceived differences in manners between the wealthy and the poor. No substantive political developments or policy decisions are documented in this portion of the recording.
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.
On August 1, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 5:21 pm and 5:22 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 758-021 of the White House Tapes.
H. R. Haldeman and John Mitchell coordinate a dinner meeting between President Nixon, John Connally, Herbert Brownell, and Mitchell himself. Haldeman emphasizes the President's desire for Mitchell’s attendance, noting that the event should be rescheduled if Mitchell is unavailable. Mitchell agrees to contact Brownell to verify their schedules and determine the feasibility of holding the meeting that evening.
On August 2, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 2:36 pm and 2:53 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 352-025 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon called John O. Marsh, Jr. to express appreciation for his ongoing work with the American Revolutionary Bicentennial Commission. Nixon relayed positive feedback from Charles Colson and John Connally regarding Marsh’s performance and specifically praised his handling of sensitive matters involving George Wallace. The President concluded the call by affirming his total confidence in Marsh’s ability to manage his current responsibilities.
On August 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 11:33 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 028-050 of the White House Tapes.
On August 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:33 am and 11:37 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 028-051 of the White House Tapes.
On August 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and John B. Connally talked on the telephone from 1:10 pm to 1:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 029-001 of the White House Tapes.
On August 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and John B. Connally met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 1:10 pm and 1:15 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 353-011 of the White House Tapes.
On August 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and John B. Connally talked on the telephone from 2:24 pm to 2:27 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 029-002 of the White House Tapes.
On August 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and John B. Connally met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 2:24 pm to 2:27 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 353-013 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate upcoming appointments and manage his daily schedule. The discussion centered on logistics for meetings with Charles W. Colson, Otto E. Passman, and a Virginia Democratic delegation, including the coordination of requested photographs. The primary outcome was the administrative preparation for these scheduled engagements.
President Nixon met with Charles W. Colson to review materials and discuss John B. Connally’s recent schedule and activities. The conversation touched upon political optics and the momentum of ongoing initiatives. Alexander P. Butterfield briefly joined the meeting toward its conclusion before the participants departed.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, to discuss routine administrative matters regarding his professional schedule. The conversation focused on the President's upcoming meeting with John B. Connally and arrangements for an impending trip to Camp David. Specific logistical concerns regarding the care and transport of the President's dogs during the retreat were also addressed.
President Nixon met with his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, to review administrative and clerical tasks. The discussion focused on editing a form letter and coordinating the scheduling for John B. Connally. Woods also addressed pending typing requirements and logistical arrangements involving the White House Blue Room.
President Nixon met with Pierre Rinfret, Charles Colson, and John Connally to strategize on economic messaging and political maneuvering regarding the upcoming International Monetary Fund meeting and the credibility of Sargent Shriver. The participants discussed framing international trade partners as fierce competitors to appeal to American laborers and business interests. Additionally, Nixon and Connally explored ways to undermine Shriver's credibility by investigating past Vietnam negotiations from the Johnson administration and potentially eliciting public statements from former officials to counter his criticisms.
President Nixon dictated a memorandum to H.R. Haldeman regarding political strategy surrounding the Vietnam peace negotiations. The discussion focused on undermining the credibility of Sargent Shriver by highlighting that he was intentionally excluded from past Paris negotiations by Lyndon B. Johnson. Nixon further strategized to use John Connally’s perspectives to amplify criticisms of Shriver’s public rhetoric and alignment with former officials like Dean Rusk, William Averell Harriman, and Cyrus Vance.
On August 17, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at 9:57 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 140-020 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed campaign strategy, focusing on utilizing John Connally to critique George McGovern's position on Vietnam. They determined that Connally, rather than the White House or Nixon himself, should deliver a measured, bipartisan-themed speech at a Veterans of Foreign Wars event to avoid a perceived political attack. The conversation also covered personnel moves, including a potential government post for Tom Johnson, and emphasized keeping the White House staff at arm's length from direct campaign rhetoric, while coordinating media access to favor cooperative journalists over CBS.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed strategies for countering political attacks by characterizing the opposition's campaign as a "low-road" effort defined by smear and fear tactics. They deliberated on potential speakers for a speech promoting bipartisanship in foreign policy, ultimately favoring John Connally to deliver a message emphasizing that peace should not be treated as a partisan political issue. Additionally, Nixon instructed that White House spokespeople, including Ron Ziegler, should remain distanced from these public rebuttals to maintain an elevated, non-partisan posture.
President Nixon met with Alexander P. Butterfield to coordinate logistical details regarding a forthcoming meeting with John B. Connally. The discussion focused on scheduling the session for the Oval Office and ensuring H.R. Haldeman’s attendance. This brief exchange served to align the President's calendar with his key advisors.
President Nixon and Charles Colson met to discuss strategies for managing public relations and campaign messaging in light of recent international and domestic developments. The conversation focused on mitigating the political impact of negative news stories surrounding John B. Connally and leveraging the ongoing Middle East conflict—specifically the aftermath of the Munich Olympic attack—to influence voter sentiment. Nixon directed Colson to organize a coordinated defense of Connally by key allies and underscored the importance of suppressing unfavorable press coverage to maintain political momentum.
On September 15, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:36 am and 9:02 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 778-003 of the White House Tapes.
On September 15, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met in the Oval Office of the White House from 10:39 am to 10:40 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 778-009 of the White House Tapes.
On September 15, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:40 am and 10:41 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 778-010 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John B. Connally held a brief, informal meeting in the Oval Office to discuss personal items and current events. The conversation primarily centered on a watch featuring the presidential seal and brief remarks concerning the 1972 election. No substantive policy decisions were made during this exchange.
In this meeting, President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman, later joined by Peter Dailey and Ronald Ziegler, discussed campaign strategy for the 1972 election, focusing heavily on media advertising and the effectiveness of surrogates like John Connally and Spiro Agnew. The participants assessed the political impact of the Watergate scandal, with Nixon instructing staff to maintain a public stance of non-involvement while letting the Justice Department handle inquiries. Additionally, they reviewed scheduling for upcoming campaign appearances and evaluated the President's responses to domestic controversies, including the U.S. Olympic team's performance and various public relations opportunities.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman to discuss political strategy for the 1972 reelection campaign, focusing on neutralizing controversies surrounding the Department of Agriculture's grain deal and potential attacks regarding federal campaign funding. The participants addressed the need for a firm, unified administration stance against amnesty for Vietnam War draft evaders and evaluated the effectiveness of using campaign advertisements to highlight this issue. Additionally, they reviewed the status of John Connally's schedule and coordinated instructions for William Safire regarding the tone and length of an upcoming International Monetary Fund speech.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discussed campaign strategy, including the effectiveness of negative ads and positive messaging, and the potential impact of Watergate and other issues on public opinion polls. They also debated the necessity and format of press conferences, favoring smaller, more controlled events like regional receptions and radio talks over large press gatherings. A significant decision was made to have Nixon stay overnight in New York after an event to save travel time back to Washington.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed the 1972 campaign, focusing on George McGovern's defense proposals and amnesty stance. They strategized on how to counter McGovern's upcoming defense speech by highlighting proposed budget cuts and linking him to controversial figures like Morton Halperin. Nixon emphasized the need for a strong, immediate response, with Melvin Laird playing a key role, and discussed the timing of campaign advertisements and potential media coverage. Colson also reported on McGovern's campaign schedule and the potential impact of his positions on Catholic voters and the NEA.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed strategies for attacking the Democratic candidate, focusing on defense budget cuts and the candidate's perceived "dishonest" statements. They planned to use John Connally to publicly denounce the candidate's defense proposals and to highlight specific individuals like Halperin and Gelb for criticism. The conversation also touched on the importance of publicizing a "zero casualty" statement and leveraging issues like amnesty to damage the opponent's campaign.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to review and refine upcoming scheduling details, including a planned visit to Laredo, Texas. The discussion focused on logistical arrangements for various appearances, such as a trip to John B. Connally's ranch, a stop at Rio Grande High School, and interactions with sports figures. The two sought to finalize the itinerary and associated site arrangements for these campaign-related events.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met to coordinate upcoming administrative logistics, including the President's schedule and official social obligations. They reviewed guest lists for formal dinners honoring Sir Alec Douglas-Home and Andrei Gromyko, ensuring appropriate attendance and political representation. Additionally, the President provided instructions regarding the distribution, inscription, and handling of photographs taken during a recent meeting at John B. Connally’s ranch.
President Nixon directed H.R. Haldeman to arrange a private meeting with John Connally and George Christian early the following week to discuss campaign plans and evaluations. Nixon emphasized his preference for a separate dialogue with Connally, requesting that the meeting be scheduled to avoid interfering with Connally's previously arranged taping sessions. The discussion also included a brief review of ongoing telephoning poll priorities across various key states.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinate a future meeting with John Connally to discuss his personal plans and future political alignment. Nixon requests that this dialogue remain separate from other scheduled commitments to ensure Connally’s ongoing training remains unaffected. Haldeman is tasked with notifying Connally to arrange the session for early in the upcoming week.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and later John Ehrlichman to coordinate administrative scheduling and legislative strategy. The discussions covered logistics for diplomatic credential presentations, Pat Nixon’s appearances at upcoming events, and the status of John Connally. Additionally, the group debated legislative strategy regarding a debt limit and expenditure ceiling bill, specifically evaluating the effectiveness of White House congressional liaisons and the necessity of direct presidential engagement with legislative leaders.
On October 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:00 pm and 1:56 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 030-046 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John B. Connally discussed their respective health statuses and logistical challenges during a telephone conversation. Connally provided updates on his recovery from a sinus infection, his upcoming travel schedule, and the personal difficulties of relocating his household. The two also addressed the rescheduling of a television appearance, which Connally coordinated with staff to ensure proper planning.