Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on John W. Dean III
393 conversations · page 1 of 4 · frequently with Nixon, Dean, Haldeman, Ziegler
These are conversations about John W. Dean III. For the 70 conversations Dean took part in, see John W. Dean III’s page →
Key conversations
- Dean’s first Watergate meeting with the President 779-002 · September 15, 1972
- March 13, 1973: Dean briefs Nixon 878-014 · March 13, 1973
- “A cancer on the presidency” 886-008 · March 21, 1973
- “Stonewall it” 422-033 · March 22, 1973
When John W. Dean III comes up
Related topics: WatergateExecutive privilegeH. R. HaldemanErvin CommitteeJohn D. EhrlichmanPublic relationsJohn N. MitchellWhite House staffWhite House communicationsObstruction of justiceNational SecurityImmunityGrand JuryWhite House Tapes
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, Frederic Malek, Daniel Kingsley, and Bill Horton to evaluate the performance and potential of various White House staff members. The discussion focused on identifying high-performing personnel, such as John Dean and William Timmons, and determining how to better utilize their specific political and administrative talents. The group emphasized the need to optimize staffing levels and strategically deploy key advisors to strengthen the administration's political capabilities.
On April 21, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:00 pm and 1:13 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 002-022 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon instructed John Dean over the telephone to take no action regarding a group of veterans, emphasizing that law enforcement should not interfere with their activities. Nixon wanted to ensure no "word is out" that the veterans were being targeted and suggested Dean stall any inquiries by claiming the situation was too late to address or temporary. Dean confirmed he understood and would coordinate a meeting with the Attorney General to discuss the matter further, agreeing with the President's directive to "do nothing."
On May 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:43 pm and 1:13 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 002-087 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the preparation of briefing materials regarding the Pay Board and upcoming meetings. Nixon emphasizes his desire to maintain political independence, explicitly stating that he does not want to feel beholden to the individuals or entities involved. The discussion also touches upon the coordination of legal opinions from John Mitchell and John Dean to support these administrative objectives.
President Nixon met with Rose Mary Woods, H. R. Haldeman, and Alexander Butterfield to manage his schedule and handle administrative tasks, including a document signature request from John Dean. The group discussed preparations for an upcoming prayer breakfast, specifically expressing frustration over the excessive length of speeches and the need for the President to keep his own remarks brief. Additionally, they reviewed presidential gifts, including sculptures of Winston Churchill and John Foster Dulles, and briefly reflected on the deaths of prominent aging statesmen.
On April 13, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 4:31 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 708-004 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with his attorney Frank DeMarco, Jr. and White House Counsel John W. Dean, III to finalize personal tax-related matters. The participants discussed the closure of specific financial or legal business, with DeMarco expressing relief upon the conclusion of the affair. No further substantive policy matters were recorded during this brief encounter.
President Nixon and Alexander Butterfield review logistical details and attendance figures regarding an upcoming Duke Law School reunion. They specifically discuss the inclusion of key administration figures such as John Dean, Egil Krogh, and Charles Colson, as well as William Brown of the EEOC. The exchange focuses on finalizing the guest list and calculating the total number of confirmed attendees.
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 and other staff to review the status of the Watergate investigation, focusing on maintaining the secrecy of White House involvement and managing the legal exposure of committee officials. The participants discussed grand jury strategies, the handling of potential indictments for figures like Jeb Stuart Magruder, and efforts to discredit political opponents by tying them to Howard Hughes. They concluded that while the scandal was a "powder keg," they had successfully minimized the immediate damage and expected to avoid trial-related repercussions until after the upcoming election.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman reviewed upcoming scheduling commitments, including a dinner for George Shultz and a State Department event. They discussed the political challenges of maintaining traditional social accessibility amidst the constraints of the presidency, with Nixon emphasizing that the nature of his office precludes returning to previous personal interactions. The pair also touched upon personnel matters, specifically regarding Emil Mosbacher’s duties and rewards, and confirmed a scheduled meeting with John Dean.
President Nixon met with John Dean and H.R. Haldeman on the day of the first Watergate indictments. Nixon praised Dean's handling of the situation and discussed using government power against political enemies. They also discussed the possibility of the Democratic National Committee planting a bug, the ongoing FBI investigation, and strategies to counter potential negative press and congressional hearings. Nixon expressed a strong desire to use government agencies to retaliate against political opponents after the election.
On October 29, 1972, Charles W. Colson and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:20 am and 10:55 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 032-086 of the White House Tapes.
On October 29, 1972, Charles W. Colson and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:20 am and 10:55 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 032-087 of the White House Tapes.
Charles W. Colson contacted the White House operator to facilitate a telephone connection with White House Counsel John W. Dean, III. The brief exchange focused exclusively on coordinating this communication and determining Dean's current location. Ultimately, Colson opted to handle the call himself after unsuccessfully attempting to have the operator connect him.
President Nixon directed Stephen B. Bull to coordinate an immediate investigation into an unspecified security violation involving a United States Senator. Nixon demanded that the FBI, the Washington police, and other relevant authorities be mobilized instantly, explicitly sidelining the Secret Service. The President emphasized the urgency of the matter by setting a ten-minute deadline for a status report and insisting that John Dean facilitate the FBI's involvement.
President Nixon consulted with Patrick J. Buchanan to prepare for an upcoming press conference regarding the Watergate scandal. Nixon expressed concerns that previous public statements by John Ehrlichman were unhelpful and directed Buchanan to coordinate with John Dean and H.R. Haldeman to develop a strategy. The President decided to adopt a position of silence on the Watergate case due to pending litigation, while also formulating specific responses to anticipated questions regarding executive privilege, staff involvement, and the scope of internal White House investigations.
President Nixon consults with Patrick J. Buchanan to strategize responses to potential media inquiries regarding the ongoing Watergate scandal. The discussion focuses on maintaining a consistent public stance, specifically distancing the administration from the burglary while reinforcing confidence in the internal investigation conducted by John Dean. Nixon emphasizes the need for a restrained, unified messaging approach when addressing questions from the press or Congress.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman, John Dean, and other White House staff and officials to discuss the unfolding Watergate investigation, including potential Senate inquiries and the appointment of minority counsel. They also touched upon White House social events, foreign policy matters involving Kissinger and Laos, and political strategy regarding campaign funds and personnel appointments. A key development was the President's decision to meet privately with Senator Howard Baker regarding the Watergate investigation.
H. R. Haldeman and William E. Timmons discuss the appointment of Fred Thompson as a staffer for the Senate Select Committee on Presidential Campaign Activities. They evaluate Thompson’s lack of experience and weigh the implications of hiring George D. Webster to assist or advise the Republican side of the committee. The participants weigh potential titles for Webster, such as associate or co-counsel, in order to balance Republican influence against the perception of Thompson as a political lightweight.
President Nixon met with John Dean and Stephen Bull to discuss the upcoming Senate Watergate hearings and the administration's strategy for handling executive privilege claims. Key topics included the appointment of minority counsel, communication with Attorney General Kleindienst and Senator Baker, and the potential for leaks from the FBI. Nixon and Dean agreed to revise a statement on executive privilege to allow for informal discussions while barring formal testimony before committees, and discussed how to manage Kleindienst's testimony and potential fallout from FBI investigations.
On February 28, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:02 am and 9:12 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 865-012 of the White House Tapes.
On March 1, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:42 am and 9:18 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 866-002 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John Dean and Manolo Sanchez to discuss the implications of FBI Director Gray's statements regarding the availability of FBI records to Congress. Nixon expressed strong opposition to Gray's apparent willingness to provide raw FBI files and agents for briefings, emphasizing historical precedent where the FBI maintained strict confidentiality. They also touched upon a 1968 bugging incident, with Dean relaying Attorney General Kleindienst's assessment that Cartha D. DeLoach's statements about the incident were likely untrue and potentially perjurious. Nixon instructed Dean to warn DeLoach through Kleindienst that his statements were being investigated and he should tell the truth.
President Nixon and Attorney General Richard Kleindienst discuss the confirmation hearings of L. Patrick Gray for FBI Director, specifically focusing on the dangers of providing Congress with access to sensitive FBI files. Nixon emphasizes the need to maintain executive control over these documents, drawing parallels to the Alger Hiss case to argue that broad congressional access would set a harmful precedent. Additionally, Nixon instructs Kleindienst to guide Gray toward maintaining the image of a firm 'lawman' rather than seeking validation from the press, while also designating John Dean as the primary White House contact for the ongoing Watergate investigation.
President Nixon and John Dean discussed the Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on precedents for releasing information to Congress and the implications of a past "freeze" order that restricted FBI information sharing. They reviewed historical examples, including the Dr. Condon case and the Harry S. Truman precedent, to distinguish the White House's current posture on executive privilege from past actions. Nixon emphasized the importance of providing information through interrogatories rather than formal hearings to avoid a "circus." The conversation also touched upon Attorney General Kleindienst's loyalty and his close relationship with John Mitchell, whom Nixon identified as the most vulnerable figure in the unfolding scandal.
President Nixon dictated a memorandum for his files while briefly meeting with aide Stephen B. Bull to secure a signature on official documents. The dictation covered a wide range of administrative and policy matters, including foreign policy objectives regarding the Middle East and Israel, as well as internal concerns involving John W. Dean III and the FBI. The President also reflected on recent events such as the National Governors Conference and various diplomatic communications.
President Nixon, along with Ronald Ziegler and Henry Kissinger, discussed strategy for an upcoming press conference, focusing on how to address questions regarding Watergate, specifically John Dean's role, Donald Segretti, and Maurice Stans, with a plan to refer inquiries about the Committee to Re-elect the President to that organization. They also touched upon the Khartoum hostage incident and the upcoming visit of President Thieu, as well as the release of POWs.
On March 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:06 am and 8:20 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 869-002 of the White House Tapes.
On March 6, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:20 am and 11:49 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 869-012 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Dean discussed the strategy for dealing with Senate investigations into the Watergate affair, particularly focusing on the confirmation hearings for L. Patrick Gray III as FBI Director. They debated the extent of cooperation with the Senate committees, the implications of releasing "raw files," and the use of executive privilege. Dean reported on conversations with Senator Eastland and concerns about Senator Baker's stance, while also outlining plans to prepare witnesses and manage potential testimony regarding former White House staff.
On March 7, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:12 am and 8:15 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 871-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed the presidential schedule, specifically focusing on arrangements and agendas for upcoming Domestic Council and Cabinet meetings involving key staff like John D. Ehrlichman. The discussion also addressed logistics for a meeting with Thomas A. Pappas and a scheduled engagement with Nelson A. Rockefeller that included George H.W. Bush. Additionally, the conversation briefly touched upon personnel matters, including a mention of Vernon E. Jordan, Jr., and the coordination of a follow-up meeting with John W. Dean, III.
President Nixon and John Dean discussed the ongoing media coverage and investigations related to the Watergate break-in and its aftermath. Dean reported on efforts to counter "innuendo" and "character assassination" in the press, particularly concerning Dwight Chapin's hiring of individuals for opposition research. They also touched upon the lack of media attention to the FBI's investigation into bugging devices found at the Democratic National Committee, and strategies for introducing specific questions into congressional hearings to address these issues, including the role of Senators Hruska and Gurney.
On March 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:29 pm and 12:42 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 878-010 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, and John Dean met to discuss strategies for responding to the Senate Watergate Committee and the confirmation hearings for L. Patrick Gray as FBI director. They coordinated messaging and potential defenses, including the possibility of withholding testimony. The conversation also touched upon ambassadorial appointments and the political implications of John Connally's party switch.
On March 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 8:36 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-097 of the White House Tapes.
On March 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:36 am and 8:55 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-098 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Dean discussed preparations for a press briefing by Ronald Ziegler and Dean's potential appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee regarding the Watergate investigation. They debated the White House strategy for responding to Senate inquiries, particularly concerning a possible subpoena for Dean and the implications for future testimony. Nixon advised Dean to consult with Ziegler and others, emphasizing the need to maintain flexibility in their response while avoiding direct involvement of Haldeman and Ehrlichman.
President Nixon met with John Dean, Ronald Ziegler, Richard Moore, and Stephen Bull to strategize responses to ongoing Watergate investigations and Senate inquiries. Key discussions focused on managing public statements, the administration's use of executive privilege, and the potential testimony of key figures like Haldeman, Ehrlichman, and Colson. They debated how to handle press inquiries and congressional subpoenas, aiming to control the narrative and minimize damage to the administration, particularly concerning the testimony of L. Patrick Gray.
On March 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:25 pm and 12:27 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-102 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon called John Dean to inquire about the status of Ronald Ziegler's press briefing. Nixon suggested that Dean and Richard Moore meet with him after the briefing concluded to discuss another unspecified matter. Dean confirmed he was not planning to go to lunch and would check with Moore.
President Nixon and John Dean briefly confer while awaiting the completion of a briefing by Ron. Nixon instructs Dean to wait until the briefing is finished before coming in, suggesting Dean might take more notes in the interim. Dean agrees to handle the situation.
On March 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:10 pm and 4:25 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-107 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon urgently inquired of John Dean whether the FBI had previously provided raw files to congressional committees. Nixon demanded immediate confirmation and threatened severe repercussions for the FBI if the information was not promptly supplied. Dean agreed to contact the FBI to ascertain this information.
President Nixon met with Ron Ziegler, John Dean, and Henry Kissinger to discuss the ongoing Watergate investigation and the administration's public relations strategy. Key topics included how to respond to press inquiries about executive privilege, the Segretti case, and the administration's cooperation with investigators. Nixon and Ziegler strategized on managing press conferences and limiting the disclosure of FBI raw files to avoid further complications.
President Nixon, John Dean, and Ron Ziegler discussed the administration's policy on providing FBI raw files to congressional committees. Nixon expressed frustration with agency responsiveness and emphasized the need to "shake them up." Dean clarified that while formal submissions of raw files were unprecedented, informal access had been granted in past cases, such as the Valachi and Harry Dexter White cases, without leaks. The discussion centered on whether congressional committees should be allowed to formally receive and record such sensitive information.
President Nixon met with Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler to strategize on managing the escalating Watergate scandal and the impending Ervin Committee hearings. They discussed how to respond to press inquiries regarding staff involvement, specifically focusing on the roles of John Dean, Dwight Chapin, and H.R. Haldeman. Nixon emphasized relying on the principle of separation of powers to justify limiting White House staff testimony, while Ziegler planned his public messaging to defend the administration's cooperation while maintaining confidence in staff members implicated in the investigation.
On March 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 5:30 pm and 5:31 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 880-020 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with an unidentified individual to coordinate his immediate professional schedule. The brief interaction focused on facilitating upcoming appointments with key advisors, specifically John W. Dean III, Henry A. Kissinger, and John D. Ehrlichman. No further substantive policy matters were recorded during this brief administrative exchange.
President Nixon and John Dean discussed the administration's strategy for handling the Watergate investigation and the release of FBI files. They debated the extent of disclosure to the Senate Judiciary Committee, emphasizing the need to protect "innocent people" from "raw files." The conversation also touched upon managing public perception, particularly through press conferences and statements by Ronald Ziegler, and strategizing responses to Senator Ervin's committee. A key action item was for Dean and Richard Moore to develop a "master plan" at Camp David.
President Nixon and John D. Ehrlichman discussed a recent Washington Post editorial comparing the current Watergate controversy, specifically regarding John W. Dean III, to the historical case of Sherman Adams. They deliberated on the potential necessity for staff members to resign if formal criminal charges were brought against them. The two men reached a consensus that any White House staffer accused of a crime would be required to leave their position.
On March 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:12 pm and 8:14 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-133 of the White House Tapes.
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 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:54 am and 10:14 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 882-002 of the White House Tapes.
On March 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:54 am and 10:14 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 882-004 of the White House Tapes.
On March 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:47 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 882-011 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the administration's ongoing public relations strategy to manage the Watergate investigation. They coordinate efforts to brief columnists, emphasizing the administration's cooperation while specifically distinguishing the current situation from the Sherman Adams scandal. Nixon stresses the importance of clearly communicating that, unlike the Adams case, White House staff members are not currently formal targets of misconduct charges.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler held a brief, fragmented discussion regarding legal developments and pending charges involving individuals connected to the ongoing Watergate investigations. The participants specifically referenced the involvement of White House Counsel John Dean and a judge’s unfavorable prior rulings in the Adams and Jordan cases. The exchange reflects the administration's concern over unfolding legal complications and the associated public relations challenges.
On March 19, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 4:59 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-155 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John Dean and Richard Moore to strategize on managing the Watergate disclosures and related legal challenges. Key topics included the extent of potential disclosures, the use of executive privilege, and responses to press inquiries and the Common Cause lawsuit. A significant development was the discussion around Dean's deposition in the Common Cause case, with consideration given to asserting executive privilege versus cooperating with the legal process to avoid appearing evasive.
On March 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 10:46 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-163 of the White House Tapes.
On March 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and John W. Dean, III talked on the telephone from 10:46 am to 10:47 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-164 of the White House Tapes.
On March 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:56 pm and 12:59 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-165 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Dean discussed a draft letter that Dean and Richard Moore were preparing. Dean indicated the letter was nearly complete and suggested it should be released that afternoon. Nixon agreed to meet with Dean and Moore at 1:30 PM to review the draft before its release.
President Nixon and John Dean briefly conferred in the Oval Office regarding the timing of a meeting. Nixon indicated that Dean and Moore should come in to discuss matters when Dean felt ready, suggesting a 1:30 PM meeting for that afternoon. The conversation was a brief check-in to schedule a more substantive discussion.
On March 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:26 pm and 7:29 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-175 of the White House Tapes.
On March 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 7:26 pm and 7:29 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 422-004 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Dean discussed the ongoing Senate Watergate hearings, focusing on the difficulties faced by acting FBI Director Patrick Gray and the potential confirmation vote. They also reviewed new witnesses being subpoenaed, including individuals linked to the Finance Committee and Thomas Lombard, and strategized on how to respond to inquiries. Dean proposed a meeting with Nixon to present a comprehensive overview of the investigation's implications, and they discussed the possibility of a limited, general statement to reassure the public and Congress without revealing sensitive details.
President Nixon and John Dean discussed the ongoing confirmation hearing for L. Patrick Gray and the potential strategy for responding to congressional inquiries. They debated whether Gray should be made a "martyr" and considered various approaches for Nixon to provide information, including written statements or general assurances, to address concerns about executive privilege and cooperation with Congress. The conversation also touched upon the need for Nixon to have clear facts to counter allegations against individuals like Haldeman and Colson.
President Nixon and Charles W. Colson discuss strategies for managing the unfolding Watergate scandal, focusing specifically on coordinating with Senator Howard Baker to ensure his loyalty while he manages the Senate committee investigation. Colson warns that White House staff involved in the cover-up, particularly John Dean, may face legal risks regarding potential charges of obstruction of justice. To mitigate these risks and provide a layer of separation from the White House, the two men evaluate the potential appointment of a respected special counsel to handle the administration's legal response.
On March 22, 1973, John W. Dean, III and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:26 pm and 3:28 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 044-011 of the White House Tapes.
On March 22, 1973, John W. Dean, III and Ronald L. Ziegler talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:26 pm and 3:28 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 044-012 of the White House Tapes.
H. R. Haldeman and John Mitchell coordinated a meeting in Washington to discuss legal strategies regarding the Watergate investigation, specifically proposing a "blue-ribbon" commission as an alternative to existing proceedings. The two men expressed frustration with Attorney General Richard Kleindienst’s lack of initiative in establishing a necessary liaison with the Ervin Committee and gathering information from the grand jury. Additionally, Mitchell sought Haldeman’s intervention to resolve employment obstacles for Herbert "Bart" Porter at the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
On March 27, 1973, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:20 pm and 4:57 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 044-026 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, John Dean, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, and Charles Colson discussed the ongoing Watergate investigation and potential strategies. Key topics included John Dean's potential grand jury testimony, the possibility of an independent commission, and how to manage public perception. A significant development was the proposal for Attorney General Kleindienst to meet with Judge Sirica to suggest options like a special prosecutor or a new grand jury, coupled with an assurance of full White House cooperation and a waiver of executive privilege.
H. R. Haldeman coordinates with the Camp David operator to facilitate communication while he is meeting with President Nixon. The conversation serves to arrange a subsequent meeting with John W. Dean, III, regarding his schedule and availability. Haldeman provides instructions for Dean to wait at his office until he arrives from his session with the President.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discussed the unfolding Watergate scandal, focusing on the testimony of Jeb Magruder and John Dean. They reviewed Magruder's evolving story regarding his involvement, the plan for intelligence operations, and cash disbursements to G. Gordon Liddy, as well as Dean's role in coordinating testimony and potential perjury. The conversation also touched upon Charles Colson's alleged involvement and the broader implications for White House staff facing Senate investigations and potential executive privilege claims.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discussed legal strategy and damage control regarding the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on potential testimony from aides like John Dean and Jeb Magruder. They explored the use of executive privilege to limit testimony, the possibility of presidential pardons for various individuals involved, and the challenge of managing public perception regarding White House involvement. The conversation underscored the administration's efforts to contain the investigation and suppress further damaging disclosures.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss the escalating legal fallout of the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on the recent grand jury immunity granted to E. Howard Hunt and Judge John Sirica's decision to subpoena James W. McCord, Jr. They explore strategies for managing John Dean’s legal exposure and potential testimony, including the advisability of Dean hiring his own criminal defense counsel. Additionally, they discuss the need to establish a secure liaison with Senator Howard Baker while expressing concerns regarding Martha Mitchell's erratic public statements and their potential impact on John Mitchell's legal defense.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the political fallout of the Watergate scandal, with Nixon expressing concern over the potential involvement of John Dean and questioning the appropriateness of White House Counsel having access to FBI reports. The conversation also covered foreign policy strategy, specifically the administration's ongoing efforts to navigate Congressional opposition regarding the bombing of Cambodia and the necessity of maintaining stability in Vietnam following the peace agreement. Kissinger and the President additionally reviewed upcoming international diplomatic schedules, including meetings with British and French officials and plans for future summits to address economic and defense policies.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to strategize their response to escalating political damage from the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on the Ervin Committee's upcoming investigations. The group discussed the risks of executive privilege and the political necessity of having White House staff, particularly John Dean, testify before a grand jury rather than the Senate committee. They also addressed reports of potential leaks from the Judiciary Committee and the urgency of managing internal morale and external public relations, as evidenced by concerns raised by George H. W. Bush regarding the administration's vulnerability.
President Nixon, John Ehrlichman, and H.R. Haldeman discussed the Watergate scandal, focusing on a draft statement regarding John Dean's potential grand jury testimony and the waiver of executive privilege. They debated the timing and wording of the statement, considering its release before Nixon's evening speech. The conversation also touched upon press strategy, potential testimony from other Watergate figures, and the broader implications for the White House.
H. R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and John Dean coordinate a presidential statement regarding allegations that Dean was involved in the Watergate burglary. The participants deliberate on the specific legal language required to waive executive privilege, aiming to strike a balance that allows Dean to testify before a grand jury while strategically overstating the charges to provoke clarification. The group also discusses potential reactions from John Mitchell and ensures that relevant staff members, including Jeb Stuart Magruder, are informed of these developments.
John D. Ehrlichman initiated a telephone call through the White House operator to contact John W. Dean, III. The interaction served as a logistical attempt to connect the two officials during a period of heightened internal scrutiny. No substantive content was recorded beyond the administrative request to facilitate this communication.
John D. Ehrlichman initiated a request via the White House operator to be connected to John W. Dean III. This interaction reflects the administrative efforts to establish communication between key presidential advisors during a period of escalating tensions. No substantive discussion of policy or strategy occurred, as the call served primarily as a logistical step for internal coordination.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to discuss the administration's public relations and legal strategy regarding the escalating Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on the recent testimony of James McCord and the potential for staff members to be called before the grand jury. They debated the merits of issuing a formal statement to clarify the White House’s position on executive privilege and cooperation with investigators. The conversation concluded with a consensus to pursue a strategy of demonstrating full cooperation with the grand jury while proposing a structured arrangement to address the Senate's Ervin Committee concerns.
On March 29, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Rose Mary Woods met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 6:24 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 426-018 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the positive public and media reception of the President's March 29 address regarding the end of U.S. involvement in Vietnam and new economic measures, including a meat price ceiling. The two agree that it was a strategic success to delay a planned statement concerning John W. Dean, III, as it would have distracted from the historic significance of the POW homecoming and the speech. Ziegler advises the President to let the speech dominate the news cycle and avoid generating additional headlines for the time being.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and Ronald Ziegler met to coordinate the administration’s strategy for responding to escalating Watergate inquiries and press scrutiny. They discussed the President’s recent televised speech, the necessity of maintaining a unified front among Republican allies, and the risks posed by potential testimony from figures like John Dean and James McCord. Nixon emphasized the importance of publicizing a statement to clarify that the White House was cooperating with investigations while attempting to distance the President from the operational details of the campaign.
John Ehrlichman updates President Nixon on a meeting with John Dean, who plans to cooperate with prosecutors and testify before a grand jury regarding the Watergate scandal. Dean intends to notify John Mitchell and Jeb Magruder of his decision to engage in informal discussions with investigators while maintaining that he possesses no information damaging to Mitchell. The participants discuss the potential for Magruder to serve as a volatile witness and the necessity for Dean to manage these communications carefully to ensure the White House is not perceived as attempting to influence testimony.
John Ehrlichman updated President Nixon on his preliminary meeting with Senators Sam Ervin and Howard Baker regarding the upcoming Watergate hearings. The discussion focused on establishing the committee's scope, securing the inclusion of Democratic political espionage, and managing witness testimony—specifically regarding John Dean and the potential risk of James McCord's public statements. Ehrlichman aimed to negotiate procedural rules to protect the White House while agreeing to a follow-up meeting to finalize arrangements, reinforcing Nixon's intent to remain distanced from the proceedings.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss the ongoing fallout from the Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the precarious position of White House Counsel John Dean. The two men strategize on managing public perceptions and media narratives, emphasizing the need to exercise caution regarding legal allegations. They also touch upon personnel uncertainties and the difficulty of navigating the mounting political pressures facing the administration.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss a strategy to avoid a high-profile, public confrontation regarding John Dean by refusing to send him to testify before the Senate. They decide that Leonard Garment should adopt a hard line, offering only written interrogatories and sworn statements instead of a television appearance. Additionally, they discuss economic policy, specifically the need for a more effective public spokesperson than George Shultz, and agree to wait for a memorandum from Pierre Rinfret before finalizing administration economic papers.
President Nixon, John Ehrlichman, and H.R. Haldeman met to coordinate White House strategy regarding the escalating Watergate investigations, focusing particularly on managing forthcoming testimony from John Dean and former Attorney General John Mitchell. The participants discussed the legal risks surrounding hush money payments, the need to unify the narratives of various aides to avoid perjury, and the potential for a counteroffensive to discredit the Ervin Committee. They weighed the benefits of having Haldeman release his opening statement to the press ahead of his committee appearance and considered appointing an independent investigator to provide a favorable report on the White House's conduct.
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman to strategize on the administration's response to the escalating Watergate investigation and the upcoming Senate Ervin Committee hearings. They discussed the legal and public relations risks of potential testimony from White House staff, specifically H.R. Haldeman and John Dean, and debated whether to adopt a posture of unified defense or to distance the President from the actions of his subordinates. Additionally, they addressed the need to manage relations with Congressional Republicans and the press to maintain political viability amidst the scandal.
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman, H.R. Haldeman, and Ronald Ziegler to strategize the White House response to the escalating Watergate investigation and the upcoming Ervin Committee hearings. The participants discussed the political risks of potential testimony from White House staffers and John Dean, the management of executive privilege, and the need to protect the presidency while appearing forthcoming. They specifically addressed allegations regarding Haldeman's role in the hiring of Donald Segretti and the handling of a $350,000 contingency fund, ultimately deciding to coordinate forthcoming statements and testimony to mitigate political fallout.
President Nixon met with Ronald Ziegler and others to discuss the escalating legal and political risks posed by the Watergate scandal, specifically the potential consequences of White House staff members providing sworn affidavits. Ziegler warned that such statements could invite further, uncontrollable demands for testimony from the President and his senior aides, potentially ensnaring the administration in a wider investigation. The group debated various defensive strategies, including the possibility of issuing 'complete' preemptive statements to control the narrative, the potential resignation of John Dean, and the risks associated with the upcoming Senate committee hearings.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to coordinate the White House's public response to the escalating Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on managing the testimony and legal exposure of staff members like H.R. Haldeman and John Dean. They discussed the tactical merits of having Dean and possibly Haldeman take a leave of absence to provide a sense of accountability and to mitigate negative press. Furthermore, they reviewed internal concerns regarding discrepancies in grand jury testimony involving Gordon Strachan and the handling of intelligence-gathering reports, aiming to minimize the President's personal involvement while attempting to shift the focus of the investigation toward other figures.