Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on Legislative relations
54 conversations · frequently with Nixon, Bull, Haldeman, Timmons
When Legislative relations comes up
Related topics: White House operationsPresidential communicationCommunicationPolitical strategyMike MansfieldWilbur D. MillsPresidential schedulingCommunication logisticsTelephone communicationsSenate leadershipForeign PolicyForeign AidWilliam E. TimmonsWhite House operator
On April 6, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:20 am and 9:22 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 042-005 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss preparations for an upcoming meeting with legislative leaders, specifically regarding the administration's economic messaging. Nixon instructs Haldeman to have George P. Shultz, rather than Paul McCracken, deliver a brief and intentionally optimistic presentation on the economy to instill confidence. The President notes recent positive trends in the stock market as evidence that the public is beginning to favor optimistic long-range economic projections.
President Nixon called Representative Leslie Arends to thank him for his supportive remarks during a recent meeting regarding the administration’s handling of the Vietnam War. The two discussed the disparity between the pessimistic outlook of Washington politicians and the underlying stability of the country. They concluded with a mutual agreement on the political necessity of communicating the administration’s strategy for ending the war to the American public, specifically noting that Democrats were worried the President's approach would ultimately succeed.
On May 5, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:15 am and 10:30 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 002-083 of the White House Tapes.
On May 12, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:24 pm and 4:30 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-021 of the White House Tapes.
On May 12, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:32 pm and 5:28 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 003-024 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discuss the administration's strategy for countering the Mansfield Amendment ahead of an upcoming Senate vote. Rogers advises the President to avoid personal attacks on Senator Mike Mansfield, noting that Dean Acheson’s disparaging public comments about the Senator have generated sympathy for him among other lawmakers. Rogers also provides an update on his recent testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee regarding war powers and foreign policy, emphasizing the ongoing legislative tension over the Senate's role in executive decision-making.
On June 17, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 8:00 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 005-118 of the White House Tapes.
On June 23, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:10 am and 9:14 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 527-015 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with House Armed Services Committee Chairman F. Edward Hébert to express appreciation for his public support during ongoing legislative negotiations. The discussion focused on managing the political challenges posed by the Senate and the imperative of maintaining the security of sensitive government intelligence sources. Nixon emphasized the necessity of preventing leaks to ensure the administration's leverage in diplomatic and military negotiations.
On June 29, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:47 am and 9:03 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-016 of the White House Tapes.
On June 29, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:06 pm and 5:35 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 006-031 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon calls Senator Barry Goldwater to express appreciation for Goldwater's recent television appearance supporting the administration's position. The two discuss the political landscape in Congress, specifically praising Representative F. Edward Hébert for his steadfast leadership in the House of Representatives. Nixon emphasizes the importance of Hébert and Senator John Stennis in resisting legislative pressure during upcoming House-Senate conference negotiations.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate upcoming administrative scheduling and logistics. The discussion centered on arrangements for a briefing in the Cabinet Room involving H.R. Haldeman and a group of senators. Nixon also addressed concerns regarding the diplomatic implications of his schedule and sought clarification on the timing of a planned meeting with Kevin Phillips.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss the status of arms and economic aid to Pakistan in the face of mounting pressure from Congress. The primary focus was on navigating the potential for adverse Senate action regarding an arms embargo against the Pakistani government. This discussion highlights the administration's efforts to manage foreign policy challenges amid legislative scrutiny during the ongoing crisis in the region.
President Nixon held a brief introductory meeting with Congressman Wright Patman, the influential Chairman of the House Banking and Currency Committee. The discussion served as a preliminary touchpoint between the administration and the committee leadership regarding upcoming legislative priorities. No formal policy decisions or specific legislative actions were finalized during this momentary exchange.
On August 16, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 9:05 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 007-153 of the White House Tapes.
On September 22, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:57 pm and 7:03 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 009-134 of the White House Tapes.
On October 6, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 8:32 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 010-068 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman reviewed and adjusted the President’s upcoming schedule to better accommodate Secretary John Connally's preparations for a press conference and to optimize the format of Cabinet and legislative leader meetings. They decided to cancel an unproductive Friday session, opting instead to consolidate updates on the Cost of Living Council’s Phase Two policies and foreign policy summit preparations into a Tuesday afternoon block. Additionally, they coordinated a meeting with Senator Russell Long to discuss pending legislative business.
On October 18, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:57 pm and 5:19 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 011-114 of the White House Tapes.
On October 29, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:46 am and 11:34 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 013-026 of the White House Tapes.
On November 3, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:28 pm and 4:34 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 013-107 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discussed the feedback from a legislative breakfast regarding the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan. Rogers reported that Senate leaders Mike Mansfield and Hugh Scott advocated for a neutral U.S. position and noted that Congress would likely oppose further foreign aid to nations ignoring UN resolutions. The President instructed Rogers to follow up with these leaders later that day to provide a briefing on the situation and also discussed the upcoming favorable Senate confirmation votes for Supreme Court nominees Lewis F. Powell, Jr. and William H. Rehnquist.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discuss the administration's legislative strategy following a breakfast meeting with congressional leaders. The conversation focuses on congressional support for the U.S. position at the United Nations regarding the Indo-Pakistani conflict. Nixon directs Rogers to follow up with House leaders after 4:00 pm to coordinate efforts on an upcoming vote.
On December 9, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:55 am and 2:38 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 016-071 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon instructed Major General James D. Hughes to telephone Representative Otto E. Passman to secure his support for a specific presidential initiative. Hughes was directed to convey the President's personal holiday wishes and assure Passman that Nixon trusted his judgment regarding the expenditure of taxpayer funds. By positioning the initiative as an exception and emphasizing mutual confidence, the President sought to cultivate goodwill and influence the congressman's legislative cooperation.
President Nixon consulted with Senate leaders Hugh Scott and Mike Mansfield regarding the formal opening of the Senate and his upcoming address to a joint session of Congress. Nixon confirmed his intention to speak on January 20th, joking about the length of his remarks while coordinating logistics for his appearance. The participants also exchanged pleasantries about their recent recesses and briefly discussed the senators' lack of involvement in current presidential campaigns.
President Nixon met briefly with Senate leaders Hugh Scott and Mike Mansfield to coordinate an upcoming meeting and discuss general scheduling. The President noted the unique position of both senators as non-candidates in the upcoming election cycle, expressing his desire to engage in informal dialogue away from partisan pressures. The exchange served primarily as a brief pleasantry to arrange a more substantive future engagement.
On February 2, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:51 am and 9:10 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-016 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon called Congressman William M. Colmer to express his personal regret regarding the Representative's decision to retire from public office. The President acknowledged Colmer’s long-standing service and influence as a prominent Southern legislator, inviting him to a White House reception to honor his career. They also discussed the need for new, effective leadership in Congress and coordinated the scheduling of a final luncheon in Colmer's honor.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed the President’s upcoming schedule to manage various executive and legislative priorities. They discussed arrangements for meetings with George H. Mahon, Otto E. Passman, and Henry Kissinger, alongside a request from John D. Ehrlichman and Edward L. Morgan to discuss the administration's stance on busing. The conversation focused on coordination of these engagements to ensure the President remains in control of key policy decisions.
President Nixon met with Representative Otto E. Passman, Henry Kissinger, and Richard K. Cook to discuss legislative strategy regarding the 1973 foreign assistance bill and the administration's budget priorities. Passman, a key legislator on foreign aid, affirmed his strong support for the President's military assistance and Vietnam-related policies while expressing deep skepticism toward multilateral aid programs and the Peace Corps. The President and his team secured Passman's commitment to assist with funding for critical national security needs, specifically mentioning potential requirements for operations in Cambodia, while agreeing to keep Passman informed through Kissinger when urgent matters arise.
President Nixon met with Clark MacGregor to debrief on a recent meeting with Southern legislators and gauge the support of House Republicans. The discussion focused on navigating legislative hurdles and ensuring party unity regarding ongoing policy challenges. The President emphasized the strategic importance of managing these political relationships and maintaining momentum during the upcoming legislative recess.
Representative James J. Delaney called President Nixon to offer congratulations following a recent political victory and to express support for the President’s handling of the Vietnam War. The two men also engaged in casual conversation regarding Delaney’s upcoming travel plans to Florida and potential social interactions involving Bebe Rebozo. The call served primarily as a gesture of political solidarity rather than a substantive policy discussion.
On June 24, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator met in the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David at 5:56 pm. The Camp David Hard Wire taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 194-018 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman to discuss legislative strategy, including the management of federal budget concerns and the potential vetoing of various bills, such as the rural development and water legislation. They reviewed plans to blame George McGovern for rising food prices by connecting them to his food stamp legislation, while also coordinating the administration's political messaging for the 1972 campaign. Furthermore, the participants addressed personnel management within the executive branch, including the role of Vice President Agnew and potential Cabinet-level changes, alongside legal considerations regarding the disclosure of wiretaps in the Leslie Bacon perjury case.
On August 2, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:54 pm and 12:59 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 028-042 of the White House Tapes.
On October 10, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator met in the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David at 8:20 pm. The Camp David Hard Wire taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 219-006 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and William E. Timmons discussed logistical arrangements for the upcoming congressional adjournment, specifically regarding how legislative leadership would formally notify the President. They reviewed historical precedents for this notification process, weighing options such as a personal visit to the White House or a telephone call from key leaders like Mike Mansfield. The conversation also briefly touched upon the status of Hale Boggs following his recent airplane disappearance, with Nixon suggesting this should be treated as a matter of public concern.
President Nixon met with House Majority Leader Tip O'Neill and House Minority Leader Gerald Ford to foster rapport and discuss upcoming legislative agenda items. The President informed the congressional leaders of his decision to prioritize his inaugural address over a traditional State of the Union address to avoid redundant messaging. Nixon extended an invitation to both men for a follow-up breakfast meeting to further coordinate on the administration's legislative priorities.
On January 9, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:24 am and 8:28 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 035-101 of the White House Tapes.
H. R. Haldeman consulted William E. Timmons to assess the sentiment of Mike Mansfield regarding a proposed joint session of Congress. Timmons reported that Mansfield expressed logistical concerns about the late notice, though he remained skeptical of Mansfield's underlying motives. Ultimately, they concluded that while Mansfield would cooperate if necessary, he would prefer that the President not pursue the appearance.
On February 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 12:16 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-019 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with William E. Timmons regarding the strategic value of hosting a breakfast meeting with Senate leaders Mike Mansfield, Hugh Scott, Robert Griffin, and Robert Byrd. The President sought to use this session to cultivate rapport and brief the senators on developments in Southeast Asia, trade negotiations, and the Soviet Union's Most Favored Nation status. Nixon emphasized the necessity of Mansfield’s attendance, deciding that if the Senate Majority Leader could not attend, the meeting would not proceed.
President Nixon and Representative F. Edward Hébert met briefly to follow up on the resolution of an unspecified personnel or procedural matter. The participants confirmed that the issue had been successfully settled and that appropriate credit would be granted. The conversation concludes with a brief, cryptic remark regarding the successful handling of the situation without collateral impact on uninvolved parties.
On March 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:25 pm and 1:42 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-139 of the White House Tapes.
H. R. Haldeman coordinates with White House staff and William E. Timmons to discuss administrative logistics and legislative outreach efforts. The discussion touches upon recent communications with Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. and concerns regarding the reliability and performance of internal staff. No major policy decisions are finalized, as the call serves primarily to exchange updates on scheduling and personnel availability.
President Nixon and William E. Timmons coordinate the scheduling and guest lists for upcoming legislative meetings and receptions, aiming to avoid redundant interactions with Republican Congressmen. They agree to prioritize inviting members of the Ways and Means and Finance Committees to specific tax and energy discussions. Nixon authorizes a larger breakfast format for the energy meeting to maximize attendance while streamlining his schedule.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met to finalize the logistics and attendee list for an upcoming bipartisan Congressional leadership meeting, emphasizing the need for a small, focused group rather than a large gathering. They specifically discussed the inclusion of key lawmakers, such as Senators Javits, Ribicoff, and Jackson, to address foreign relations and legislative strategy. Additionally, the President reviewed his broader schedule, including plans for a brief meeting with Jewish leaders and coordination regarding John Ehrlichman's activities.
President Nixon consulted with Stephen B. Bull and William E. Timmons to discuss concerns raised by Representative Otto Passman regarding foreign aid policy. Passman, who advocates for loans over grants, was scheduled to travel abroad, prompting the President to manage the legislator's expectations. Nixon directed that Henry Kissinger contact Passman before his departure to assure him that the administration would defer final decisions on foreign aid until after his return.
President Nixon rebukes William E. Timmons for his perceived passivity and negative attitude regarding legislative affairs. Nixon explicitly commands Timmons to abandon his lethargy and proactively mobilize supporters to publicly counter negative narratives. This directive reflects the President's urgent need to bolster political messaging amidst the growing pressures of the Watergate scandal.
On May 24, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at 1:34 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 039-002 of the White House Tapes.
On June 22, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 9:19 am and 9:20 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 946-004 of the White House Tapes.