Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on National Security
302 conversations · page 2 of 4 · frequently with Nixon, Kissinger, Bull, Haig
On February 9, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:51 pm and 3:36 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-085 of the White House Tapes.
On February 14, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:22 pm and 10:32 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-091 of the White House Tapes.
On February 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:47 pm and 8:49 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-124 of the White House Tapes.
On March 6, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:13 pm and 7:14 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 021-003 of the White House Tapes.
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.
On March 14, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:37 pm and 7:00 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 021-071 of the White House Tapes.
On March 21, 1972, United States Secret Service agents and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:43 pm and 1:00 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 690-015 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Gerard Smith and Alexander Haig to discuss the strategic approach and political risks regarding the upcoming Soviet summit and potential arms control agreements. The President emphasized that while an agreement is desirable, it must be robust enough to withstand political attacks from the right wing, which he viewed as a greater threat than critics on the left. The participants assessed the implications of including submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) in the deal and discussed tactics for managing congressional reactions and maintaining bargaining power ahead of the Moscow summit.
On March 27, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:48 pm and 7:51 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 022-033 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Senator John C. Stennis discuss the need for a confidential briefing regarding the upcoming U.S.-Soviet summit. Nixon directs Henry Kissinger to contact Stennis to explain sensitive strategic information necessary for managing Senate reactions before the summit. Additionally, the two men agree to arrange a future private, off-the-record meeting to discuss broader, undisclosed policy concerns away from the cabinet and aides.
President Nixon held a brief morning meeting in the Oval Office with an unidentified woman before transitioning to discussions with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Thomas H. Moorer and Deputy Secretary of State Kenneth Rush. Henry Kissinger was also involved in the deliberations during this session. Although the specific substance of the dialogue remains unrecorded, the participants focused on high-level foreign policy and national security matters.
On April 3, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:35 pm and 7:12 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 022-068 of the White House Tapes.
On April 4, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:15 pm and 8:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 022-076 of the White House Tapes.
On April 11, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman, and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:10 am and 10:49 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 022-104 of the White House Tapes.
On April 11, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:21 pm and 7:41 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 022-110 of the White House Tapes.
On April 12, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 3:20 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 022-118 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Henry A. Kissinger met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 2:12 pm and 5:35 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 329-045 of the White House Tapes.
On April 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and Henry A. Kissinger talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:23 am and 9:27 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-015 of the White House Tapes.
On April 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 9:27 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-016 of the White House Tapes.
On April 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:05 pm and 8:18 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-026 of the White House Tapes.
On April 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:05 pm and 8:18 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-027 of the White House Tapes.
On April 19, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Henry A. Kissinger met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 9:13 am and 9:20 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 331-011 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon dictated notes and drafted portions of a speech aimed at justifying continued American involvement in the Vietnam War amidst the North Vietnamese spring invasion. He focused on framing the conflict as a critical test for global peace, arguing that a withdrawal would embolden future communist aggression while undermining the credibility of U.S. power. The President sought to contrast his administration's generous peace offers and troop withdrawals against North Vietnam's reliance on Soviet-supplied weaponry and battlefield escalation.
President Nixon held a brief, unscheduled meeting in the Old Executive Office Building with Alexander M. Haig, Jr. While the specific transcript is unavailable, the discussion occurred during a period of high-level national security deliberations regarding the Vietnam War. This interaction reflects the ongoing, direct consultative relationship between the President and Haig concerning military and diplomatic strategy.
On May 1, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:49 pm and 6:53 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-095 of the White House Tapes.
On May 1, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:13 pm and 7:18 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-101 of the White House Tapes.
On May 2, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:31 pm and 9:35 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 023-128 of the White House Tapes.
President Richard Nixon met with Alexander M. Haig, Jr. at the Old Executive Office Building to discuss ongoing administrative business and national security developments. While a transcript is not available, these brief sessions typically focused on coordinating military policy and internal White House strategy during a critical period of the Vietnam War. No specific policy shifts or outcomes are documented for this short exchange.
On May 8, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:36 pm and 4:55 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 024-012 of the White House Tapes.
On May 8, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:57 pm and 5:23 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 024-014 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the messaging and strategic implications of the President’s upcoming speech concerning the war in Vietnam. They focused on the necessity of maintaining American credibility and military commitment to avoid the consequences of an abrupt withdrawal. The conversation served as a final review of the speech text, specifically addressing the editing of press copies and the removal of certain references to ensure the administration's policy position remained firm.
On May 8, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Henry A. Kissinger met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 6:14 pm and 6:22 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 336-054 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon held a discussion with an unidentified individual to refine the messaging regarding the U.S. military strategy in Vietnam. The conversation focused on justifying American intervention as a necessary measure to protect the lives of 60,000 U.S. troops against communist aggression. Nixon articulated a diplomatic stance toward the Soviet Union, asserting both a respect for their interests and a firm commitment to defending American objectives in the region.
On May 9, 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 10:58 am and 11:07 am. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 338-004 of the White House Tapes.
On May 9, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at 5:54 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 722-011 of the White House Tapes.
On May 15, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:18 pm and 9:16 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 024-119 of the White House Tapes.
On May 16, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:03 am and 8:11 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 024-138 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss urgent matters of foreign policy and national security strategy during a critical period of the Vietnam War and ahead of the upcoming Moscow summit. The brief discussion focused on evaluating international developments and refining the administration's diplomatic maneuvers. This exchange highlights the close coordination between the President and his National Security Advisor regarding sensitive global engagements.
On May 17, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator met in the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David at 10:43 am. The Camp David Hard Wire taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 189-013 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler discuss strategies for avoiding a presidential debate with the Democratic opposition. Nixon emphasizes the need to frame the refusal by highlighting the stark policy differences between candidates and arguing that sensitive, ongoing international negotiations make a public debate contrary to the national interest. They agree on a communication plan to present these arguments to the press, aimed at denying the opponent prime-time exposure.
On July 23, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 2:35 pm and 3:08 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 136-030 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 an unknown time between 10:07 am and 10:09 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 138-004 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John S.D. Eisenhower and David R. Young, Jr. to discuss the Interagency Classification Review Committee's report on reducing classified materials. The conversation focused on the need to decrease the number of individuals with Top Secret clearance and access, the challenges of overclassification, and the importance of stricter penalties for security violations to prevent leaks. Nixon emphasized the administration's public goal of increased transparency while privately stressing the necessity of maintaining secrecy for national security and effective governance.
President Nixon met with Veterans Affairs Administrator Donald E. Johnson and other aides to discuss the administration's legislative strategy regarding veterans' benefits and a messaging campaign for the 1972 election. Nixon emphasized the need to contrast his support for Vietnam veterans with the Democratic opposition's stance on amnesty and national security, specifically targeting comments made by Sargent Shriver and Ramsey Clark. The session also included administrative updates, such as the upcoming resignation of George Romney and a social visit with Donald McI. Kendall and his family, during which they exchanged gifts and discussed presidential items.
On August 11, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 4:14 pm and 4:16 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 137-001 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with departing Ambassador to India Kenneth B. Keating and Alexander M. Haig, Jr. to discuss Keating's tenure in India, his upcoming domestic political activities, and foreign policy strategy for the 1972 election. They reviewed Keating's conversations with Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and analyzed the political risks of George McGovern's defense proposals, specifically regarding Israel and nuclear deterrence. The meeting concluded with President Nixon presenting Keating with an commemorative watch in recognition of his service.
On August 21, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at 11:20 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 140-056 of the White House Tapes.
On September 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Ronald L. Ziegler met in the Oval Office of the White House at 11:37 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 781-009 of the White House Tapes.
On September 19, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Henry A. Kissinger met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:22 pm and 12:25 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 783-016 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Charles Colson, John Ehrlichman, and Henry Kissinger to refine the 1972 reelection campaign strategy. The participants prioritized keeping the focus on national security and foreign policy while framing George McGovern's shifting positions as evidence of poor character and lack of trustworthiness. They also discussed attacking the financial disclosures of the Kennedy family and McGovern’s campaign to create a political liability for their opponents, while Nixon instructed his staff to focus on positive foreign policy outreach with international leaders.
President Nixon met with Rose Mary Woods, Stephen Bull, and H. R. Haldeman to address a wide range of administrative, political, and security concerns. Key topics included the legislative strategy for the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) bill, security precautions for Henry Kissinger, and political maneuverings related to the 1972 presidential campaign. Additionally, the participants discussed various psychic predictions from Jeane Dixon, potential threats to the Jewish community, and routine correspondence regarding presidential memorabilia and gift offers.
On September 21, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 7:42 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 030-016 of the White House Tapes.
On September 24, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 10:03 am and 11:37 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 154-006 of the White House Tapes.
On October 13, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone from 7:08 pm to 7:14 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 031-040 of the White House Tapes.
On October 15, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at 11:24 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 149-011 of the White House Tapes.
On October 16, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:33 am and 10:12 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 031-050 of the White House Tapes.
On October 19, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Alexander M. Haig, Jr. talked on the telephone from 10:52 am to 10:53 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 031-139 of the White House Tapes.
On November 14, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 9:00 am and 9:36 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 153-004 of the White House Tapes.
On November 15, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 9:00 am and 9:08 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 153-027 of the White House Tapes.
On November 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:13 pm and 12:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 033-091 of the White House Tapes.
On November 18, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 12:29 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 033-097 of the White House Tapes.
On December 17, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 3:29 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 034-124 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon dictated a memorandum outlining instructions for CIA Director Richard Helms regarding his upcoming transition to the ambassadorship in Iran. The President tasked Helms with conducting a comprehensive analysis of Middle Eastern political stability and the regional oil situation as it pertains to the energy security of the United States, Europe, and Japan. Additionally, the directive addressed Helms' recent communications with John Connally concerning Middle Eastern diplomatic travel and established the framework for their future consultations on these critical national security matters.
On December 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 11:59 am and 12:01 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 158-014 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Under Secretary of State U. Alexis Johnson discussed the security protocols for communicating the decision to halt U.S. bombing north of the 20th parallel. Johnson explained that he took the initiative to inform the relevant parties to listen to the public announcement rather than risking an insecure transmission of the sensitive news. The two men acknowledged the difficulty of the decision to pause the bombing, with Nixon reflecting that only history would judge the efficacy of his choice.
President Nixon and Charles Colson opened their conversation by discussing the Washington Redskins' recent victory and Nixon’s unsuccessful efforts to reach coach George Allen to offer congratulations. The discussion quickly shifted to a professional concern regarding Henry Kissinger, specifically suspecting him of leaking information to New York Times journalist James Reston. Nixon ordered Colson to investigate Kissinger’s communications, including his private telephone records and potential contacts with the press, to confirm the source of the unauthorized disclosures. They agreed on the necessity of monitoring Kissinger more closely to maintain control over national security messaging during delicate Vietnam peace negotiations.
President Nixon met with David M. Abshire and William E. Timmons to discuss Abshire’s departure from the State Department to lead the Georgetown Center for Strategic and International Studies. The participants explored ways to leverage the Center to counter the influence of liberal-leaning institutions like the Brookings Institution and the Ford Foundation in foreign policy discourse. Nixon emphasized the need to improve the foreign policy knowledge and effectiveness of Republican legislators through specialized travel and structured briefings to ensure stronger support for his administration's agenda.
President Nixon hosted a ceremony in the Oval Office to honor General Alexander M. Haig, Jr. with the Defense Distinguished Service Medal. The event, attended by Haig’s family and high-ranking administration officials, served as a formal recognition of Haig’s significant contributions to national security and his diplomatic efforts, including his work supporting Henry Kissinger. The gathering concluded with photo opportunities and brief discussions regarding Haig's transition out of his White House role.
President Nixon met with South Korean Prime Minister Kim Chong-pil and other officials to reaffirm the U.S.-ROK alliance and discuss ongoing regional security challenges. The conversation focused on South Korea’s dialogue with North Korea, the modernization of ROK forces, and South Korea’s role in the Vietnam War negotiations. Nixon emphasized the importance of achieving an honorable end to the conflict in Vietnam to maintain congressional support for foreign aid, while expressing interest in South Korea's internal constitutional amendments and the restoration of their National Assembly.
On January 10, 1973, 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 3:46 pm and 3:49 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 395-009 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with William E. Timmons to discuss strengthening congressional relations and managing the legislative agenda. They reviewed lists of supportive Democrats and Republicans, strategizing on how to cultivate these alliances through social events and political recognition. Additionally, they addressed concerns regarding potential opposition on Vietnam policy, the status of Watergate investigations, and plans to utilize Alexander Haig for briefings on national security matters.
President Nixon speaks with Tricia Nixon Cox and Edward R. F. Cox to receive a firsthand account of the performance by the Shenyang Acrobatic Troupe in Washington, D.C. Tricia describes the enthusiastic reception, noting that the audience remained for a lengthy standing ovation despite the presence of heavy security measures. The discussion emphasizes the success of this cultural exchange as a positive tool for U.S.-China relations.
On January 21, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:02 pm and 5:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 036-034 of the White House Tapes.
On January 23, 1973, H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:40 pm and 12:43 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 036-072 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with former Japanese Prime Minister Eisaku Sato and his delegation to reflect on the strength of the U.S.-Japan alliance and the geopolitical significance of the recently negotiated Vietnam peace settlement. The participants emphasized the necessity of military and diplomatic strength to deter potential aggression and discussed the importance of maintaining international commitments to ensure global stability. Nixon underscored the personal nature of his relationship with Sato and highlighted the vital role that mutual trust and strong, unified alliances play in navigating relations with other global powers.
Henry Kissinger instructed Commander Jonathan T. Howe to coordinate a high-level notification process regarding an upcoming policy announcement following the Vietnam settlement. Kissinger directed that critical diplomatic channels, including Ingersoll, Bunker, and LaPete, be informed of the text and timing of the statement to ensure a unified message during consultations. The communication was to be handled with strict confidentiality, framing the announcement as a move toward international peace.
President Nixon, King Hussein of Jordan, Henry Kissinger, and Zaid al-Rifai met to discuss the Middle East peace process and bilateral US-Jordanian relations, including military and economic aid requirements. The participants analyzed the regional security environment, specifically the influence of the Soviet Union, the threat posed by Iraq and Syria, and the potential for private, rather than public, negotiations between Jordan and Israel. Nixon committed to reviewing Jordan's urgent budgetary and military aid requests sympathetically, while Kissinger coordinated follow-up channels to maintain progress on peace negotiations.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss a variety of administrative and personal matters, including staff transitions for William Safire and potential social or cultural engagements. The conversation also touched upon broader governmental concerns, such as the ongoing investigation into North Vietnam, the FBI, and media-related subpoena issues. The participants weighed logistics for a possible live broadcast from Camp David while navigating sensitive national security discussions regarding the United Kingdom.
On March 2, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:01 pm and 8:05 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-035 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Captain Jeremiah A. Denton, Jr. to discuss the experiences of American Prisoners of War (POWs) and plan a welcoming reception at the White House. The conversation focused on the personal resilience of POWs, the importance of an honorable conclusion to the Vietnam War, and the strategic necessity of U.S. involvement in global affairs to counter Soviet and Chinese influence. Nixon also solicited Denton's insights on the psychological endurance required during captivity and finalized logistical arrangements for an upcoming dinner honoring the returned servicemen.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met with John J. McCloy to discuss the future of the Arms Control Advisory Committee and broader U.S. foreign policy challenges. The participants evaluated potential candidates for the committee—including David Packard and William Scranton—while expressing frustration over bureaucratic resistance and the tendency of some members to leak information or lobby against administration policy. Nixon emphasized his desire to move beyond passive reactions and actively shape world events, specifically addressing concerns regarding the shift in the balance of power in Western Europe, the need to maintain strong defense capabilities, and the implications of the Vietnam settlement.
President Nixon met with Congressman William J. B. Dorn and White House staffers Kenneth R. Cole, Jr. and Max L. Friedersdorf to discuss the administration's legislative priorities concerning veterans' affairs and the defense budget. Nixon emphasized the importance of maintaining military strength to ensure successful international negotiations and urged against unilateral defense spending cuts that could jeopardize peace efforts. Regarding veterans' legislation, the group addressed the need to support disabled and Vietnam-era veterans while avoiding "budget-busting" provisions in congressional bills, with Nixon expressing a desire to work closely with Dorn to reach acceptable compromises and avoid a presidential veto.
On March 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 8:13 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-113 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with General Brent Scowcroft for a brief consultation regarding ongoing national security matters. While the transcript remains undefined, the meeting served as a continuation of discussions concerning administrative oversight and military briefing coordination. No specific policy shifts were recorded during this short two-minute session.
On March 21, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:20 am and 8:24 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 886-003 of the White House Tapes.
On March 21, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:45 pm and 3:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-187 of the White House Tapes.
On March 21, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Gen. Brent G. Scowcroft talked on the telephone from 3:48 pm to 3:49 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-188 of the White House Tapes.
On March 21, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 6:09 pm and 7:25 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-196 of the White House Tapes.
On March 21, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:26 pm and 7:27 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-198 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss media strategy and the timing of a forthcoming administration announcement. They deliberate on how to deflect expected press inquiries regarding the Watergate scandal by emphasizing national security and economic concerns. The conversation focuses on managing public perception and coordinating the release of information to minimize political damage.
President Nixon engages in a discussion regarding federal fiscal policy, specifically addressing the conflict between administration spending goals and Congressional budget proposals. The participants debate the economic implications of increased federal spending, the necessity of maintaining national strength to ensure peace, and the political friction surrounding presidential vetoes. Nixon emphasizes the importance of fiscal responsibility and executive accountability while reflecting on the necessity of strength in international negotiations.
On March 29, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Henry A. Kissinger talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:43 am and 10:44 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 044-067 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with George Shultz, Helmut Sonnenfeldt, and John Ehrlichman to coordinate economic and national security policy, specifically focusing on the intersection of trade legislation and East-West diplomacy. Nixon emphasized the need to bridge the gap between Shultz’s economic initiatives and Henry Kissinger’s national security priorities to present a unified administration stance on European and Soviet relations. The participants also reviewed domestic labor and economic policy, including pension reform and minimum wage legislation, with Nixon instructing his team to manage Labor Secretary Peter Brennan’s expectations while maintaining a conservative budgetary position.
On April 9, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Gen. Brent G. Scowcroft met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 4:39 pm and 5:03 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 891-006 of the White House Tapes.
On April 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:58 pm and 6:00 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-010 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon instructed Stephen B. Bull to reschedule his lunch meeting with Paul W. Keyes due to unexpected demands regarding national security matters. Nixon initially suggested meeting after the White House correspondents' event, but ultimately pivoted to scheduling a brief chat following the 2:00 pm garden tour. The brief exchange highlights the President's efforts to balance social obligations with pressing executive responsibilities.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:16 pm and 11:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-035 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to strategize their response to the escalating Watergate investigation and the upcoming deposition of John Dean. The group discussed managing public perception through a potential White House-led announcement, while specifically addressing legal vulnerabilities regarding “plumbing” operations, unauthorized wiretaps, and the extent of the President's knowledge. They focused on establishing a consistent narrative that would distance the President from illegal activities, particularly by framing past surveillance as national security matters and attributing unauthorized actions to subordinates like John Mitchell.
President Nixon instructed his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to postpone a scheduled meeting with Arthur F. Burns and George P. Shultz. The President cited urgent national security matters as the reason for his unavailability and limited the upcoming session with them to 30 minutes. This directive reflects the President's attempt to manage his schedule amidst the increasing pressures of the escalating Watergate scandal.