Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on Nelson Rockefeller
44 conversations · frequently with Nixon, Ehrlichman, Kissinger, Haldeman
President Nixon and his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, discuss the positive feedback received from various associates following the President's recent television address regarding Southeast Asia. Woods relays laudatory comments from figures including Spiro Agnew, Nelson Rockefeller, and Freeman Gosden, noting their appreciation for the President's sincere and effective delivery. Nixon coordinates follow-up calls to several of these individuals and instructs Woods to schedule a meeting with James E. Bassett for the following day.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the delicate diplomatic opening with the People's Republic of China, specifically debating the merits of sending a high-profile, non-government emissary like Nelson Rockefeller to lead negotiations. They analyze the impact of their broader 'linkage' strategy, which has successfully connected issues like Berlin, SALT, and Vietnam into a cohesive diplomatic framework. To manage public and political expectations, they agree to hold official inquiries in abeyance while maintaining an enigmatic public posture until a more formal, constructive response to the Chinese can be prepared.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss a request from New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller for emergency federal financial assistance to support New York City police, citing recent unrest and violence. Nixon explores the political implications of providing direct aid to the state to counteract budget maneuvering by Mayor John Lindsay. The two agree that Ehrlichman will evaluate potential funding sources and contact Rockefeller to determine if a strategic federal grant can be announced.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met to coordinate the President’s upcoming schedule and administrative appointments. The discussion focused on managing the activities and potential interactions of Judge Homer Ferguson, including his involvement with the President’s Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board (PFIAB). They also touched upon scheduling considerations regarding Nelson A. Rockefeller.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the optics and scheduling of an upcoming meeting with New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller. They deliberate on whether to permit photographic coverage of the meeting to project an image of positive federal-state relations, ultimately aiming to influence New York political perceptions. The President confirms the meeting will take place in the Oval Office rather than the EEOB to focus the conversation on topics such as revenue-sharing.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler briefly coordinate a meeting with Governor Nelson Rockefeller to discuss federal-state relations. They specifically weigh the optics of allowing photography during the session to document the administration's engagement with state leadership. Ziegler agrees to consult Rockefeller on his preference for the photo opportunity before finalizing the logistics.
President Nixon consulted with the White House operator to facilitate an urgent contact with New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller. Upon learning that the Governor was dining at the Knickerbocker Hotel, the President instructed the operator to attempt to place the call immediately. This brief exchange reflects the administrative process involved in the President's efforts to reach high-level political associates.
President Nixon and Senator Barry Goldwater discuss the political implications of New York City Mayor John V. Lindsay’s shift in party affiliation and the associated frustrations within the Republican Party. They touch upon the views of Ronald Reagan and the historical context of supporting Nelson Rockefeller, reflecting a shared antipathy toward Lindsay’s political trajectory. The conversation concludes with brief personal pleasantries regarding the President’s upcoming travel to California.
President Nixon and Secretary of Agriculture Clifford M. Hardin discussed Hardin’s potential resignation and transition to a private sector role at Ralston Purina. Nixon encouraged Hardin to make his career move before the 1972 election to ensure a smooth transition for his successor and to secure his personal financial future. The two also addressed current administration economic initiatives, farm policy, and the recent Attica state prison riots, with Nixon expressing support for Governor Nelson Rockefeller's handling of the crisis.
President Nixon met with Robert Dole, Alexander Haig, and H. R. Haldeman to discuss political strategy, the administration's wage and price freeze, and foreign affairs. A significant portion of the conversation centered on the Attica state prison riots, where Nixon expressed support for Governor Nelson Rockefeller's refusal to grant amnesty to the rioters. Additionally, the participants reviewed Dole's recent trip to the Far East and evaluated potential Democratic opponents and general campaign messaging for the 1972 election.
President Nixon called New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller to commend his firm handling of the recent prison uprising at Attica. Rockefeller provided an update on the successful tactical operation to retake the prison, confirming that seven hostages and thirty-two prisoners had been killed, while emphasizing the necessity of denying amnesty to maintain order. The two discussed the role of external mediators like Tom Wicker and the potential for a national conspiracy, with Rockefeller confirming his support for the President’s reelection.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman discussed the public and media reaction to the Attica Prison uprising, expressing frustration that coverage from networks like NBC focused on supporting the prisoners while failing to credit Governor Nelson Rockefeller. The participants speculated that the racial dynamics of the riot and the involvement of radical figures like the Black Panthers would ultimately turn public opinion against the prisoners. Additionally, Ehrlichman confirmed that the administration had placed federal prisons on standby following threats from outside activists, though the President suggested the outcome at Attica might serve as a deterrent rather than a catalyst for further unrest.
President Nixon calls New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller to express his full support for the Governor's handling of the violent Attica State Prison riot. The two discuss the tactical necessity of the police response, acknowledging the tragedy of the casualties while agreeing that firm action was required to maintain order. Nixon confirms that he has rallied legislative leaders behind Rockefeller and advises the Governor to remain steadfast against potential media or political criticism.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met with Gerald Ford and staff to review the President's upcoming schedule and discuss the political fallout of the recent Attica State Prison riot. Nixon and Haldeman defended New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller's handling of the situation, specifically praising the use of force and rejecting the necessity of amnesty for the inmates. Additionally, the group briefly critiqued a local Washington, D.C. environmental initiative involving bike lanes on Rock Creek Parkway, dismissing the project as a costly inconvenience to commuters.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler strategized the administration's public relations response to the violent Attica prison riot and its aftermath. Nixon directed Ziegler to maintain a supportive stance toward Governor Nelson Rockefeller, emphasizing that Rockefeller faced a difficult decision under pressure from radical outside influences. Additionally, the pair discussed potential responses to upcoming press questions regarding George McGovern’s overseas travel and personal security concerns.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the political optics surrounding the Attica prison uprising, specifically weighing how Governor Nelson Rockefeller should handle the situation in light of forthcoming public opinion polls. The President also touches upon a potential meeting with former Miss America Phyllis George to build public rapport. The dialogue emphasizes the need to proactively refine messaging strategies before unfavorable poll data is released.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to coordinate public relations strategy regarding sensitive foreign policy developments and to discuss the domestic political landscape. They agreed to maintain a matter-of-fact, low-key approach to upcoming diplomatic announcements to preserve bargaining leverage with the Soviet Union and China. The discussion also touched on Nelson Rockefeller’s state of mind following the Attica Prison riots and the administration’s intention to minimize reliance on mainstream press outlets like the New York Times in favor of direct communication. Finally, they explored potential initiatives to better publicize the administration's foreign policy achievements, including a possible television appearance by the President.
President Nixon consulted with John Ehrlichman regarding an upcoming interaction with New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller to prepare for potential requests for financial assistance. Ehrlichman agreed to monitor the situation and screen future communications to manage Rockefeller's expectations. The discussion focused on maintaining administrative control over the President's engagement with the Governor.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place an outgoing call to New York Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller. The conversation serves solely as a logistical request to initiate communication with the Governor. No substantive policy discussions occurred during this brief exchange.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place an urgent call to Henry Kissinger. The operator identified that Kissinger was likely located in New York at the time of the request. Nixon specifically inquired about Kissinger's presence at the residence or office of Nelson Rockefeller to facilitate the connection.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss potential personnel changes within the administration, specifically debating the merits of Elliot Richardson versus Nelson Rockefeller for future roles, including potential State Department leadership. The discussion emphasized maintaining administrative control and managing political expectations for the 1972 campaign. Additionally, Nixon instructed Kissinger to ensure John B. Connally receives prominent credit for his contributions to the administration's economic policy initiatives.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss the political challenges of advancing welfare reform, specifically addressing concerns raised by Governor Ronald Reagan regarding rising costs. The pair strategizes on how to handle Senator Charles Percy's involvement and reconcile the conflicting interests of Republican governors like Nelson Rockefeller. Nixon ultimately instructs Ehrlichman to proceed with managing these legislative hurdles despite the difficult political landscape.
President Nixon and his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, discussed her recent public engagements, including a television appearance related to the 'Legacy of Parks' program and her interactions with figures like Bebe Rebozo and Nelson Rockefeller. The President also reviewed his upcoming schedule, which included a potential trip to Florida and his planned address to the AFL-CIO convention. The conversation served primarily as a personal check-in between the two, touching on family matters and the political climate surrounding his administration.
President Nixon and Attorney General John Mitchell briefly discuss political reputations and potential comparisons between various public figures, specifically mentioning Nelson Rockefeller and another associate referred to as K.O. The exchange focuses on evaluating the public perception and professional conduct of these individuals. No formal policy decisions or major administrative actions were finalized during this short interaction.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the positive impact of Nixon’s recent conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, which resulted in Canada voting with the United States at the United Nations regarding the India-Pakistan War. The two strategize on building further momentum through Senate resolutions demanding an Indian withdrawal from Pakistan while criticizing Soviet involvement. Additionally, they briefly touch upon the effectiveness of a recent background press briefing and plan to arrange a meeting between the President and Nelson Rockefeller.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discussed legislative strategies, including the potential veto of a legal services bill and negotiations regarding the Family Assistance Plan (HR 1). They reviewed the success of recent briefings with governors, leading to an action item for Ehrlichman to coordinate with Nelson Rockefeller regarding his upcoming testimony. The conversation also touched on the Justice Department’s suit against milk producers and personnel management within the Office of Economic Opportunity.
President Nixon dictated a memorandum for his personal files while interacting with his valet, Manolo Sanchez. The discourse reflects on personal family matters, including recent interactions with his daughter Julie and son-in-law David Eisenhower, alongside introspective musings on the nature of political power and leadership. Nixon touches upon the requirements for effective political operators and briefly mentions Nelson Rockefeller in the context of his political assessments.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss foreign policy strategy, specifically focusing on managing the optics and political fallout of the Vietnam War ahead of the 1972 election and the upcoming Soviet summit. They deliberated on the timing of troop withdrawal announcements to neutralize Democratic criticism, the necessity of maintaining a residual force for POW protection, and the potential for a visit to South Vietnam. Additionally, the pair reviewed the success of the recent China trip and explored potential cabinet realignments, including the possible future roles of Nelson Rockefeller and Spiro Agnew.
President Nixon dictates a memorandum for the file reflecting on recent communications and his personal schedule. He notes a report from Billy Graham regarding minimal student unrest at the University of North Carolina concerning Vietnam bombing campaigns, as well as a supportive phone call from Nelson Rockefeller. Nixon also records personal reflections on recent calls with his daughters and his intent to take a brief period of rest after a working dinner.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss an unauthorized letter sent to Cardinal Cooke supporting anti-abortion efforts, which has upset New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller. Concerned that the letter was perceived as a deliberate administration intervention in New York's sensitive state-level abortion legislation, Nixon directs Ehrlichman to investigate how the letter was released and to contact Rockefeller to apologize. The conversation concludes with a plan to rectify the political damage and a brief mention of potential delays regarding the administration's push for aid to parochial schools.
President Nixon met with Nelson Rockefeller to apologize for an unauthorized letter that caused public embarrassment for the New York Governor. Nixon distanced himself from the leak, labeling it a "coup" and vowing to identify the culprit within his administration. Additionally, the two discussed the geopolitical implications of the upcoming Moscow summit in the context of ongoing international tensions.
President Nixon met with Rose Mary Woods to discuss the positive public reception following his recent televised speech announcing the blockade of North Vietnam. The two reflected on messages of support from prominent figures and the public, while also assessing the ongoing risks regarding a potential cancellation of the upcoming Soviet summit. Additionally, they touched upon political alliances, specifically praising Nelson Rockefeller’s steadfast loyalty compared to Ronald Reagan, and coordinated upcoming social functions at the White House.
President Nixon directed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Margaretta “Happy” Rockefeller, the wife of New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller. The brief exchange served strictly as a logistical request to initiate communication with the Governor's spouse. No further political or substantive matters were discussed during this connection.
President Nixon met with Clark MacGregor to discuss campaign strategy and assess the vulnerabilities of Democratic challenger George McGovern. The two reviewed McGovern's campaign staff, his controversial selection of Thomas Eagleton as a running mate, and perceived arrogance among McGovern's intellectual supporters. Additionally, they considered Nelson Rockefeller's perspective on MacGregor’s performance and his interactions with a hostile press corps.
President Nixon consulted with H. R. Haldeman regarding Clark MacGregor’s performance and the fallout from a recent press conference involving Nelson Rockefeller. The discussion focused on managing political messaging, including the potential for future briefings directed at Cabinet members and the spouses of administration officials. They further addressed Rockefeller’s assessment of MacGregor as they strategized on internal political coordination.
President Nixon and John N. Mitchell discuss political strategy regarding Republican primary opposition and the potential role of Nelson Rockefeller. The conversation focuses on securing a clear path for the President's reelection campaign by neutralizing potential internal rivals and managing party financial support. Nixon emphasizes the importance of consolidating influence within the party to ensure his program remains unchallenged throughout the campaign cycle.
President Nixon met with Henry Kissinger and Nelson Rockefeller to coordinate the administration’s public posture regarding stalled Vietnam peace negotiations ahead of the 1972 election. They discussed North Vietnamese attempts to force a hasty settlement, the status of key sticking points such as troop withdrawals and administrative structures, and the timing of a potential press briefing by Kissinger. Nixon decided to maintain a firm stance against being stampeded into a premature agreement, opting to portray the administration as protecting the national interest while exposing North Vietnamese intransigence.
President Nixon consulted with H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to finalize logistical arrangements for an upcoming family trip to New York and to coordinate the scheduling of political meetings at Camp David. The participants discussed hotel accommodations, the timing of a secretive meeting with Henry Kissinger to avoid premature press attention, and the importance of balancing Republican leadership presence at Camp David by inviting Barry Goldwater to meet alongside Nelson Rockefeller. Additionally, they reviewed progress on RNC personnel matters, including directives for John Mitchell to mobilize key committee staff.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinate logistical preparations for an upcoming trip, focusing on managing public perception and scheduling meetings with key political figures. They discuss the importance of delaying official announcements to avoid premature speculation and finalize the guest list, which includes Nelson Rockefeller and Barry Goldwater. The conversation concludes with the President instructing Haldeman to hold off on contacting John Mitchell for the time being.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to discuss staffing and organizational plans for the upcoming second term, focusing on personnel management and political maneuvering. The two men criticized the recent conduct of Donald Rumsfeld, labeling him an opportunist, and evaluated the power struggle between Henry Kissinger and William Rogers. They also coordinated strategy for an upcoming meeting with Nelson Rockefeller, with Nixon emphasizing the need to limit the scope of discussions regarding the State and Defense Departments.
President Nixon dictated a memorandum at Camp David to record his assessments of key personnel and organizational strategies for his second term. He evaluated potential cabinet roles, including the performance of Kenneth Rush and William J. Casey, and expressed his intent to maintain executive control over foreign policy decisions rather than delegating them to the State Department. Additionally, he reflected on recent interactions with prominent figures such as Nelson Rockefeller and James R. Schlesinger regarding administrative shifts and Republican National Committee leadership.
President Nixon and aide Stephen B. Bull coordinate the President's upcoming schedule, focusing on political maneuvering and high-level meetings. The discussion addresses Nelson Rockefeller’s objections regarding George H. W. Bush’s potential involvement in New York politics and the logistics of a planned meeting with Rockefeller. They also finalize timing for a session with George P. Shultz, a VFW engagement, and other administrative preparations for the President’s evening commitments.
President Nixon recorded a memorandum for the file regarding his upcoming schedule and various administrative matters. The recording reflects Nixon's engagement with several key advisors and associates, including John Ehrlichman, George Shultz, John Mitchell, and John Connally. The discussion centered on organizing logistical details, including meetings with Nelson and David Rockefeller, and establishing future priorities for his staff.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed the President’s upcoming schedule for the following Monday, focusing on a variety of diplomatic and domestic appointments. Key agenda items included a state visit by Haile Selassie, a meeting with Nelson Rockefeller regarding the Study Commission on Third Century America, and a ceremony to honor Mrs. Roberto Clemente. The two also coordinated logistics for Nixon’s travel plans to Camp David, specifically discussing the timing of a helicopter departure.