Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on Political appointments
56 conversations · frequently with Nixon, Haldeman, Bull, Ehrlichman
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman and Washington Governor Daniel J. Evans to discuss regional economic concerns, specifically the impact of Hanford nuclear reactor funding cuts on Washington state employment. The conversation also covered a broad range of domestic policy and administrative matters, including the legislative strategy for revenue sharing, potential health maintenance organization (HMO) initiatives, and various high-level appointments. Additionally, Nixon and his staff coordinated efforts to strengthen support among agricultural voters through outreach programs involving Senator Robert Dole.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman briefly discuss the handling of personnel or administrative appointments, specifically expressing concern over the treatment of political allies. The two leaders consider the fairness of the current selection process and identify a potential conflict regarding how certain individuals are prioritized over others. The conversation ends with an informal assessment of whether a third party had previously addressed the issue.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman coordinated legislative strategy regarding key political figures, specifically Gerald Ford and Wilbur Mills, concerning upcoming policy or administrative appointments. They discussed the necessity of securing Ford’s public support and maneuvering Mills into a position where he would be compelled to endorse or accept their proposal. The conversation focused on tactical timing and leveraging political pressure to ensure the desired outcome before formalizing the plan.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, John Connally, and others to discuss strategies for securing Senate support for the supersonic transport (SST) project and to coordinate political appointments. The group analyzed the legislative landscape, focusing on shifting the framing of the SST from a purely environmental issue to a matter of jobs and economic impact. Furthermore, Nixon emphasized the need for a loyal, aggressive leader within the IRS to ensure the administration could effectively utilize the agency to monitor political enemies and friends alike.
President Nixon held separate discussions with Rose Mary Woods and Henry Kissinger regarding social, political, and strategic matters. Woods reported on her recent travel and media appearances, while Kissinger briefed the President on delicate negotiations involving Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT), Soviet relations, and potential leaks regarding Vietnam defense policies. The President provided guidance on managing various political associates and addressed concerns regarding Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird’s communication tactics.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss various political and policy matters, including potential personnel appointments like Arlen Specter and strategies for managing the national economy. They evaluated the political impact of upcoming public opinion polls and assessed the strategic implications of the administration's Vietnam policy, specifically regarding the McGovern-Hatfield resolution. Additionally, the pair coordinated on the delicate planning and potential domestic impact of the President’s prospective visit to the People’s Republic of China, emphasizing the secrecy required for Henry Kissinger's diplomatic efforts.
President Nixon contacted Undersecretary of Agriculture J. Phillip Campbell to commend his public defense of D.C. Police Chief Jerry V. Wilson during a recent meeting of Southern agricultural secretaries. The President affirmed his own support for Wilson and emphasized the importance of aggressive advocacy for administration figures. They also discussed positive feedback Nixon received regarding Georgia Democrat Doyle Connors, with the President directing John Whitaker to ensure Connors is considered for future White House functions.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met to finalize the guest list and protocol for an upcoming dinner honoring Postmaster General Winton M. Blount. The discussion focused on ensuring that key political allies and assistants, such as Willie J. Usery, Jr., were included while excluding carryover staff. Additionally, they reviewed the upcoming Cabinet meeting agenda, specifically coordinating with John D. Ehrlichman to address sensitive matters regarding document security.
H. R. Haldeman and Frederic V. Malek discuss the potential appointment of Peter G. Nash as counsel for the National Labor Relations Board. Malek reports that while Nash may not receive the same enthusiastic reception as Richard T. Burress, he is expected to secure confirmation without significant opposition from labor or business interests. Based on positive internal reviews from James D. Hodgson, Lawrence H. Silberman, and Maurice H. Stans, the pair concludes that the appointment remains viable.
President Nixon initiated this call to express his appreciation to Congressman Chet Holifield for his instrumental role in shaping a balanced consumer protection bill. The two discussed the importance of incorporating Administrative Procedures Act guidelines and agreed on the necessity of appointing a judicious, competent administrator to oversee the new organization. Holifield affirmed his commitment to the legislation's success while noting his upcoming schedule for committee work on Capitol Hill.
President Nixon and John Mitchell discuss strategies for recruiting a high-level candidate for a prestigious appointment, emphasizing the need to appeal to the individual's sense of duty to the country. They evaluate potential candidates, specifically dismissing Howard Baker due to concerns over his legal practice and political vulnerability in the Senate. Ultimately, Nixon instructs Mitchell to handle the outreach independently to maintain distance from the White House staff and ensure the recruitment process remains confidential.
President Nixon and John Mitchell discuss political messaging and strategic communications regarding upcoming remarks, specifically concerning the vetting or qualification of a female appointee. The conversation reflects concerns over potential information leaks and the potential political fallout from public statements. The two agree on the need for caution, ultimately deciding to hold off on addressing certain controversial topics until the following morning.
President Nixon met with Postmaster General Winton M. "Red" Blount to discuss the confirmation of Post Office Board of Governors appointments and potential political strategies for Blount's planned Senate run in Alabama. The President offered instructions for Bryce Harlow to negotiate with Senator Hiram Fong to expedite the stalled confirmation process, while also evaluating the political viability of Alabama Senators John Sparkman and James B. Allen. They concluded by discussing the logistics of Blount’s impending resignation announcement and his electoral prospects, punctuated by informal remarks on Alabama college football.
President Nixon met with Peter G. Peterson, George P. Shultz, John D. Ehrlichman, H. R. Haldeman, and Henry Kissinger to discuss personnel changes and key policy initiatives. The President offered Peterson the position of Secretary of Commerce, emphasizing the need for a combative and effective advocate to handle public relations and congressional outreach. The group also deliberated on the political risks of the President addressing the AFL-CIO, explored strategies for upcoming international monetary negotiations, and reviewed the status of Vietnam peace talks following a leak regarding troop withdrawal numbers.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman met to review recent polling data, discuss political appointments, and address various scheduling items. They analyzed a drop in the President's approval ratings, speculating on the impact of Phase II economic policy implementation and the recent United Nations vote regarding Taiwan. Additionally, the President reviewed a request to visit the Washington D.C. subway construction site to influence a forthcoming congressional vote, and Haldeman provided updates on upcoming labor-related meetings.
President Nixon met with Peter Flanigan and H.R. Haldeman to evaluate potential candidates for various ambassadorships, including Japan, Spain, and Argentina. The discussion focused on balancing political loyalty and competence while addressing specific diplomatic needs in countries undergoing potential leadership transitions. Nixon emphasized his desire to appoint reliable individuals who align with his administration's goals rather than relying on traditional career diplomats or individuals with conflicts of interest.
President Nixon initiated this call to Secretary of Transportation John A. Volpe to exchange Christmas greetings and discuss the current political climate in Italy. They evaluated the election of Giovanni Leone as the new Italian president and agreed on the necessity of retaining Graham A. Martin as U.S. Ambassador to Italy despite some criticism regarding his social engagement. Nixon clarified that although there had been suggestions to appoint Volpe to the ambassadorship, he ultimately decided against it because of Volpe's vital role and importance to the administration's efforts domestically.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman evaluated the technical production of the President’s recent television interview with Dan Rather, expressing dissatisfaction with the camera angles and framing. They discussed potential improvements for future media appearances to avoid unflattering visual effects. Additionally, the pair strategized on the political benefits of appointing a qualified woman to a government council, with the President directing Haldeman to gauge the support of key officials for a specific candidate.
President Nixon, Secretary of State William P. Rogers, and Attorney General John N. Mitchell discuss potential candidates for the U.S. Ambassadorship to Japan. The group decides to reject Fredrick M. Eaton for the position due to concerns over his age and the likelihood of a contentious confirmation process during an election year, while agreeing to offer him a future appointment. The participants pivot to vetting Robert S. Ingersoll, with the President tasking Rogers with evaluating whether Ingersoll’s professional background and personal toughness are suitable for the diplomatic post.
President Nixon called Congressman Frank T. Bow to express his regret and appreciation upon learning of Bow's decision to retire from Congress. During the brief discussion, they touched upon Bow's successor, Elford A. Cederberg, whom both men agreed would be a capable replacement. The President also inquired about Bow's upcoming plans, expressing his willingness to find a less strenuous role for the Congressman within the administration after his final term.
President Nixon met with Representative Richard W. Mallary and White House aide Richard K. Cook to discuss strategic congressional committee assignments for Mallary. The President offered political advice regarding potential placements on the Appropriations, Ways and Means, and Agriculture committees, while considering the influence of figures such as George D. Aiken and Gerald R. Ford. Beyond legislative matters, the participants exchanged gifts and discussed the personal logistics of the Mallary family's transition to Washington.
President Nixon met with James E. Stewart and Clark MacGregor, accompanied briefly by a White House photographer, to discuss political relations, potential travel logistics, and administrative appointments. The conversation touched upon Stewart’s history in Minneapolis, praise for Nixon’s recent trip to the People's Republic of China, and anticipation for his upcoming visit to the Soviet Union. The participants also briefly addressed pending Supreme Court nominations and the search for an Attorney General, with Nixon advising caution regarding staff travel requests.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to coordinate administration messaging and political maneuvering, specifically regarding ongoing negotiations with North Vietnam and domestic legislative concerns. The discussion centered on clarifying the administration's stance on negotiations to avoid undermining press secretary Ron Ziegler and managing potential political fallout from staff appointments and campaign-related controversies. Nixon also instructed his team to prepare contingency plans for troop withdrawals and to adopt a more aggressive posture on both international and domestic communications.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the urgent need to select a successor following the death of FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover. They weigh the political implications and potential confirmation hurdles of appointing an acting director versus a permanent successor immediately. The conversation focuses on avoiding a contentious Senate confirmation process during an election year, ultimately weighing the benefits of appointing a capable interim leader to maintain stability at the Bureau.
President Nixon initiated this brief call to inform Lyndon B. Johnson of the death of FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover. Nixon expressed his commitment to maintaining Hoover’s position despite intense political pressure to remove him, noting that he had protected the Director to avoid a divisive confirmation fight in the Senate. Johnson lamented the loss, affirming his long-standing professional and personal regard for Hoover.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and others to manage the political fallout and transition following the death of FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover. The group discussed the necessity of appointing an interim director to avoid a controversial Senate confirmation process during an election year. Additionally, they coordinated a strategy for the President's upcoming trip to Annapolis, emphasizing planned interactions with young people and potential public appearances to bolster his public image.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss the messaging strategy for Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler regarding upcoming political appointments and the selection of an Acting FBI Director following J. Edgar Hoover’s recent death. They emphasize the need to distinguish between permanent Supreme Court appointments and temporary political assignments to deflect public criticism. The pair concludes by coordinating the logistics for an afternoon meeting with a prospective candidate.
President Nixon met with acting FBI Director L. Patrick Gray III and his wife shortly after the death of J. Edgar Hoover to discuss strategy for Gray's permanent nomination. Nixon provided detailed counsel on managing the press, explicitly warning Gray to avoid adversarial news organizations like CBS and the New York Times while maintaining a tough, professional persona similar to Hoover's. The President emphasized the need to build staff morale through personal outreach and advised Gray to project a professional, rather than personal, relationship with the White House to deflect political criticism.
President Nixon and labor leader Peter J. Brennan discussed the potential appointment of a candidate to a Department of Labor position, for which the President offered his personal endorsement. The conversation also touched upon the political climate, including Brennan's favorable impression of Teamster official Joseph Trerotola. Finally, Nixon briefed Brennan on the escalating military situation in Vietnam and solicited his support for anticipated, stronger U.S. actions intended to secure the release of American POWs.
President Nixon met with John B. Connally and Stephen B. Bull to discuss the transition of the Treasury Secretary position from Connally to George P. Shultz, including plans for an upcoming cabinet announcement. The conversation also covered international affairs, specifically the blockade of North Vietnam and negotiations with the Soviet Union, as well as the President’s desire for tighter controls on the political and professional appointments of Jewish individuals within his administration. Additionally, Nixon and Connally explored future post-resignation roles for Connally, including diplomatic missions to Latin America and an appointment to the President's Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board (PFIAB).
President Nixon met with John Connally and H.R. Haldeman to discuss political maneuvering regarding the 1972 campaign, specifically focusing on Senate races and the handling of potential legal liabilities. They strategized on how to convince Republican candidates in Arkansas to withdraw to support powerful Democratic incumbents like John McClellan, who were seen as potential allies. Additionally, the participants addressed the imminent indictment of Jake Jacobsen, debating whether political influence could delay the process to protect Connally's interests and the "Democrats for Nixon" initiative.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman met to discuss various political and administrative matters, including the waning impact of the Vietnam War on the 1972 election, strategies for post-election personnel reorganization, and plans to build a stronger political establishment. They also discussed managing public perception regarding Nixon's foreign policy initiatives, specifically his visits to China and the Soviet Union, and explored the potential of using military leaders like Daniel "Chappie" James Jr. as political surrogates to reach white voters. Finally, the pair addressed a recent break-in at Dr. John Lungren's office concerning the President's medical records, deciding to treat the incident with transparency to neutralize any potential political fallout.
President Nixon met with a delegation of Spanish-speaking campaign surrogates and administration officials to discuss Hispanic representation in the federal government and political outreach efforts for the 1972 election. Emphasizing his commitment to merit-based recruitment, Nixon urged the attendees to inspire Hispanic youth by demonstrating that progress is achievable through participation in the existing system. The participants shared their experiences regarding the administration's impact on their communities, specifically highlighting successes in urban mass transportation and economic advancement, while reinforcing their support for the President’s reelection.
President Nixon called media executive Norman Chandler to offer well wishes regarding Chandler’s ongoing health struggles and recent surgery. During the conversation, Chandler congratulated the President on his 1972 reelection victory, prompting Nixon to reflect on the historical importance of the Los Angeles Times’ early support for his political career. The two also discussed the status of Ambassador Walter H. Annenberg, with Nixon committing to write a note encouraging Annenberg to remain in his post to help alleviate political pressure.
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 H. R. Haldeman met to coordinate the administrative reorganization for the President’s second term, focusing on key cabinet appointments, ambassadorships, and the removal of certain personnel. They discussed strategies for managing political loyalists, including the potential reassignment of H. R. Haldeman and other staff, while addressing the optics of these shifts. Furthermore, they deliberated on managing the Watergate fallout, specifically regarding the handling of sensitive staff departures and the strategic messaging required to insulate the White House from ongoing investigations.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss the final phase of staffing for the second presidential term and political strategy following the 1972 election. They review the successful appointment of Peter J. Brennan as Secretary of Labor and coordinate personnel planning for cabinet and subcabinet positions, specifically targeting Catholic, Democratic, and minority representation. Additionally, the President tasks Colson with working alongside H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to develop a strategic game plan for political operations and administration retention during an upcoming visit to Camp David.
President Nixon consulted with George H.W. Bush to secure his commitment to serve as the new Chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC). Nixon outlined a delicate strategy to replace the incumbent, Bob Dole, by framing the transition as a necessary change to a full-time chairmanship to ensure Dole's graceful exit. The President instructed Bush to coordinate closely with John Ehrlichman and H.R. Haldeman regarding the timing of the announcement and emphasized the importance of maintaining a unified front with party leadership, including Gerald Ford, to finalize the appointment.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinated the transition of George H. W. Bush from his role as UN Ambassador to Chairman of the Republican National Committee. The discussion focused on managing Robert Dole’s potential resistance to the leadership shift, with Nixon directing Haldeman to use a firm approach to ensure a seamless succession by the 20th of December. They also strategized the timeline for public announcements and transition periods to avoid conflicts with ongoing Middle East negotiations.
President Nixon consults with George H.W. Bush regarding his appointment as the new chairman of the Republican National Committee. Nixon outlines a political strategy to ease the transition by replacing the current chairman, Bob Dole, while maintaining party unity and securing consensus from figures like Gerald Ford. Nixon instructs Bush to hold a firm stance on the timing of his departure from the United Nations to ensure a clean, immediate transition into his new role following the committee's vote.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinate the transition of George H.W. Bush from his role at the United Nations to a new position as National Chairman of the Republican National Committee. The discussion focuses on the strategic timing of this announcement to ensure a seamless transition that avoids any operational gap in party leadership. Nixon instructs Haldeman to manage the process carefully, ensuring that the official appointment coincides with the committee's actions while managing public perception.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss the overwhelmingly positive reception to the appointment of Peter J. Brennan as Secretary of Labor, noting his effective television appearance and the strategic appeal of his "hardhat" background to the administration's constituency. The two strategize on organizational changes within the Department of Labor, specifically targeting the removal of Bureau of Labor Statistics personnel and the potential recruitment of George D. Webster for a position within the IRS. Additionally, Colson provides an update on the final 1972 election results, expressing confidence that the President's victory margin will remain at 61.1 percent.
President Nixon and Representative Gerald Ford discussed the upcoming reorganization of the Republican National Committee and the administration’s cabinet. Nixon confirmed that George H.W. Bush would be appointed as RNC Chair to replace Robert Dole, while Ford provided updates on managing internal party friction regarding other leadership roles, specifically balancing regional representation. The two also addressed personnel shifts, including the transition of John Volpe to Ambassador to Italy and the difficulty of vetting candidates for high-level government positions due to background check concerns.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed administrative appointments, media relations, and political strategy at the end of 1972. They analyzed the favorable public reaction to the appointment of Labor Secretary Peter Brennan and planned to leverage that success to boost support among ethnic and working-class demographics. Additionally, the two reviewed the positive impact of 1972 campaign advertisements, discussed the tragic death of Dorothy Hunt, and strategized on ways to weaken the influence and credibility of the press, particularly CBS and the 'establishment' media.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, Robert Dole, and various staff members to discuss political appointments, including the selection of George H. W. Bush as the new Republican National Committee Chairman and the departure of Robert Dole. The group also evaluated strategies for a second-term administration reorganization, emphasizing the need for loyal, creative personnel and improved administrative control over the bureaucracy. A significant portion of the discussion focused on managing the public relations fallout of the Watergate scandal and Segretti's campaign sabotage operations, with the President weighing whether to issue a statement to distance the White House from these controversies.
President Nixon met with Charles Colson, H.R. Haldeman, Alexander Haig, and Julie Nixon Eisenhower to discuss political strategy and administrative appointments for the second term. The participants analyzed the perception of the Republican Party, debated the potential for a political coalition involving John Connally, and reviewed candidate selections for key positions, specifically within the Department of Labor. Nixon emphasized the importance of ensuring high-level appointees were strategically aligned with the administration’s policy goals and internal machinery.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman, Maurice Stans, and others to discuss second-term administrative reorganizations, press strategy, and Vietnam policy, specifically the impact of renewed bombing. Much of the discussion focused on managing the aftermath of the 1972 campaign, including the handling of surplus funds and the recognition of major donors through social events and potential appointments. Nixon expressed frustration over the perceived political hostility of the press and the impact of the Watergate scandal on his administration's public reputation and fundraising efforts.
President Nixon and William E. Timmons met to coordinate strategy regarding congressional relations and manage potential political fallout from Democratic caucus efforts to pass an 'end the war' resolution. The President expressed frustration with partisan interference during sensitive Vietnam negotiations and discussed the timing of future meetings with congressional leaders, including Mike Mansfield and Carl Albert, to mitigate legislative challenges. Additionally, they reviewed Republican personnel issues, focusing on the need for effective leadership in the House and the party's general struggle with the advanced age and perceived ineffectiveness of several veteran legislators.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman, Charles Colson, and other senior advisors to discuss staffing appointments, media relations, and legal developments concerning the Watergate scandal. The participants focused on identifying candidates for key government positions, including the IRS commissioner, and debated the management of the administration’s public image amid mounting investigative pressures. Additionally, they reviewed potential risks associated with the ongoing Watergate legal proceedings and the potential for congressional inquiries resulting from upcoming trials.
President Nixon consulted with staff regarding legislative strategy and foreign policy coordination, specifically concerning Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield's interest in visiting the People's Republic of China. Nixon directed Bill Timmons to contact Mansfield to discuss the potential trip and to address the appointment of nominees to an unspecified foreign policy board. Additionally, the President reviewed a list of potential board candidates provided by George H.W. Bush, emphasizing the need for loyal supporters, and prepared for an upcoming meeting with Charles Colson.
President Nixon met with Charles W. Colson to discuss Colson’s upcoming diplomatic travel to the Soviet Union and Romania, as well as broader issues of administration strategy. The conversation covered political public relations, specifically the need to project strength regarding the recent return of Vietnam POWs and a firm stance against amnesty for draft dodgers and deserters. Additionally, they reviewed personnel appointments for the Department of Labor and Commerce, emphasizing the necessity of hiring staff with political loyalty over neutral systems analysts, while also strategizing on how to manage potential congressional investigations into the Watergate scandal.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to coordinate administrative and diplomatic matters, including the President's decision to skip the Gridiron dinner due to his disdain for George McGovern's political conduct. They discussed the logistics of hosting South Vietnamese President Nguyen Van Thieu and selecting an ambassador for the People's Republic of China, with Nixon emphasizing the need for a high-level political appointee rather than a career diplomat to maintain White House control. Additionally, they coordinated a confidential update for William Downey regarding the impending release of his brother, John Downey, from imprisonment in China, and reflected on the success of the administration's Vietnam policy and the resulting strengthening of Nixon's public standing.
President Nixon and RNC Chairman George H.W. Bush discuss personnel recommendations and the recruitment of prospective speakers for Republican Party efforts. The brief exchange touches on the selection of qualified women for representative roles and acknowledges current party spending concerns. Bush confirms that he is receiving a positive reception as he continues to manage the organization's financial and outreach strategies.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed upcoming scheduling matters, including the Cardinal’s Rome investiture and the involvement of Monsignor Kuhn regarding a potential White House worship service. The discussion also addressed logistics for a meeting with singer Tony Martin and internal coordination regarding appointments at the Executive Office Building involving George H. W. Bush and Nelson Rockefeller. Bull was tasked with managing these arrangements to ensure smooth administrative operations for the President’s appearances.
President Nixon met with RNC Chair George H.W. Bush and Janet J. Johnston to discuss Republican Party strategy, personnel, and upcoming electoral goals. They reviewed internal leadership races, specifically addressing tensions between Clarence J. Brown and Robert H. Michel, and discussed the President's stance on intervening in internal party contests. Additionally, the group strategized on recruitment, focusing on potential party-switching candidates in Virginia and the broader political implications of recruiting high-profile figures like John Connally to the Republican cause.
President Nixon held an brief, ambiguous meeting in the Oval Office with an unidentified individual, potentially involving logistics regarding building access or security personnel. The conversation touches upon the coordination of immediate tasks and references upcoming interactions with various political figures, including Leonard Garment, Alexander Haig, and Jesse Helms. The participants also briefly discussed the scheduling of a radio taping for a foreign policy address.