Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on Public opinion polls
37 conversations · frequently with Nixon, Haldeman, Colson, Bull
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and Ron Ziegler to coordinate political mobilization strategies following his March 4, 1971, press conference. The discussion focused on leveraging the President's recent media performance to promote his domestic agenda—specifically revenue sharing—while coordinating briefings with Nelson Rockefeller, George Romney, and John Connally. Additionally, they evaluated press reactions to the President's stance on the war in Laos and reviewed polling data regarding Democratic challengers.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman met with various staff members to analyze recent public opinion polls and strategize on ways to bolster the President’s credibility regarding his Vietnam War policy and foreign relations. The participants evaluated the public impact of events like the Laos operation and the President's recent press conferences, while also discussing the development of a more robust public relations effort involving key cabinet members and advisors. Additionally, the conversation addressed ongoing textile trade negotiations with Japan and administrative staffing concerns, including potential roles for Peter G. Peterson and Donald H. Rumsfeld.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss the status of a forthcoming Louis Harris poll evaluating the public response to the President's April 7th speech. Colson confirms that he is in contact with Harris to monitor the polling data and ensure the President’s team remains informed. The two men agree that maintaining this collaborative relationship with Harris and sharing internal data helps manage the narrative and keep the polling process favorable to the administration.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the political fallout and public perception surrounding the Vietnam War policy and the recent trial of Lieutenant William L. Calley, Jr. The President expresses interest in analyzing polling data, particularly Gallup results, to gauge public approval of the war. They further deliberate on the logistics of releasing polling information and address potential administrative support regarding legal costs related to the Calley trial.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman consulted to review public opinion polling data regarding the ongoing Vietnam War effort. They specifically evaluated how current approval ratings might influence congressional legislative strategies and public perception. The discussion focused on synthesizing these poll results to determine the most effective political messaging for the administration's policy goals.
President Nixon held a wide-ranging, informal discussion with Julie Nixon Eisenhower and David Eisenhower regarding the public and political reception of his recent foreign policy initiatives. The conversation covered domestic reactions to his April 7 Vietnam address, including polling data and editorial commentary, as well as the administration's efforts toward outreach with the People's Republic of China. Additionally, the participants engaged in a lighthearted dialogue concerning professional baseball, specifically discussing Carl Yastrzemski’s career and the President’s receipt of an MVP award.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman to discuss public relations strategies, including the handling of press inquiries and the use of favorable polling data to counter political opposition. Following this, Nixon met with Robert D. Murphy and Henry Kissinger to provide instructions for Murphy's sensitive, unofficial mission to Taiwan. Nixon emphasized the need for absolute secrecy regarding his China initiative and tasked Murphy with managing Chiang Kai-shek's expectations while exploring flexible diplomatic approaches to the United Nations issue.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discussed strategies to counter anti-war protests, specifically focusing on the involvement of Trotskyist groups within the movement and the perceived political opportunism of Representative Paul N. McCloskey, Jr. The President sought to leverage public support from traditional segments of the electorate, such as student groups and working-class supporters, while tasking staff with shaping media narratives to discredit the anti-war opposition. Additionally, they reviewed scheduling logistics for upcoming speeches and appearances designed to build enthusiasm among influential constituencies like the Chamber of Commerce and the Daughters of the American Revolution.
President Nixon expressed frustration to H. R. Haldeman regarding a meeting with Republican Senators, specifically criticizing Clark MacGregor for allegedly prompting legislators like Howard Baker to push for an end to the Vietnam War. Nixon felt MacGregor mistakenly believed the President was uninformed on congressional sentiment and failed to effectively manage the discussion to better align with administration goals. Haldeman was tasked with holding a candid debriefing with MacGregor to address this tactical failure and was also instructed to expedite the release of relevant poll data.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discussed political strategies in response to recent public opinion polls and negative media coverage regarding the Vietnam War, demonstrations, and the administration's policy initiatives. They analyzed the electoral impact of the administration's China initiative, explored public relations tactics for the Cabinet, and considered the timing of a future presidential press conference to regain control of the political narrative. The conversation also touched on personnel matters, including a potential ambassadorship for John A. Volpe and the administrative reorganization of the United Nations staff.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met to review routine administrative paperwork and discuss recent public opinion polling regarding the Vietnam War. They analyzed shifts in approval ratings and the significance of undecided voters in the context of recent war demonstrations. The discussion concluded with a brief review of documents requiring the President’s signature.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman met to coordinate the President’s upcoming travel schedule, which included stops in Indianapolis, California, Midway Island, and Maine. They discussed speech drafting, particularly for an upcoming address to the American Medical Association, and debated the logistics of using helicopters versus airplanes for these trips. Additionally, the pair reviewed recent polling data from Louis Harris and George Gallup regarding public opinion on the People's Republic of China’s admission to the United Nations, noting a shift in Republican sentiment in response to administration policy.
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 met with his senior staff and Caspar Weinberger to develop a political and economic strategy centered on job creation and tax policy. The discussion focused on leveraging construction projects to stimulate the economy, addressing the regressive nature of property taxes, and crafting a messaging strategy that emphasizes the President's leadership and strength. Nixon directed his team to prioritize projects that provide immediate employment and instructed them to present these efforts as a decisive counter-argument to the spending agendas proposed by Congress.
President Nixon initiated this call to thank Senator Hubert H. Humphrey for defending his administration on the Senate floor. The two discussed the necessity of bipartisan cooperation regarding the Vietnam War, with both men affirming their shared desire for peace and their respect for the efforts of previous administrations. The conversation concluded with a brief, informal exchange concerning Humphrey’s ongoing political activities and current public opinion polling.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss the political fallout and public reception of the upcoming China initiative, agreeing that the move has successfully bolstered the President’s image while putting Democratic rivals like Senator Edward Kennedy on the defensive. They also address the lack of vocal enthusiasm from Republican legislative leaders regarding the initiative, with Nixon directing Colson to pressure these leaders to adopt a more aggressive and supportive stance. Furthermore, the two touch upon media strategy, noting that the administration's assertive tactics are yielding more favorable coverage from major networks.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and Stephen B. Bull to coordinate his daily schedule, address upcoming diplomatic meetings, and review recent public opinion polling regarding his initiative toward the People's Republic of China. Haldeman briefed the President on requests from William P. Rogers and Henry Kissinger concerning China representation, while also presenting survey data that showed strong public support for the President's diplomatic outreach. The discussion concluded with logistical arrangements for the President's afternoon appointments, including a meeting with the Future Farmers of America.
President Nixon and Charles Colson met to discuss political strategy regarding the administration's economic policies and public polling. They assessed partisan support for the President's wage and price freeze initiatives, noting that public sentiment remained generally positive toward these measures. The conversation further touched upon political optics, including the importance of maintaining control over economic messaging to sustain voter support.
President Nixon and Charles W. Colson discussed the political landscape in the Senate, specifically concerning upcoming votes on a federal pay raise and the administration's ability to block or compromise on legislation. The two analyzed the motivations of Democratic rivals, including Hubert Humphrey, Edmund Muskie, and Edward Kennedy, while evaluating the potential impact of their public comments and media perception on Nixon's administration. They also reviewed recent polling data from Louis Harris and George Gallup, and discussed the economic outlook, particularly the upcoming unemployment and wholesale price figures and their influence on labor relations.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to coordinate strategy for an upcoming speech and to review economic indicators, particularly wholesale price trends. They discussed the necessity of blocking Senate legislative maneuvers through a filibuster and evaluated the status of various public opinion polls regarding the President's reelection prospects. Additionally, they touched upon internal personnel concerns and media management strategies, including plans to address negative coverage and book reviews.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman briefly discuss the strategic timing of releasing poll results to maximize their impact in morning newspapers. Nixon emphasizes the urgency of the release, instructing Haldeman to coordinate the effort with George Bush. The exchange highlights the administration’s focus on controlling the public narrative through media placement.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss the administration's recent legislative victory in the House regarding Mansfield amendments and the broader congressional agenda. The two review positive polling trends, including favorable data from Gallup and Sindlinger, and analyze the political implications of recent events such as the North Carolina reception and textile agreements. Additionally, they touch upon economic performance and the importance of maintaining positive public perception through the conclusion of the legislative session.
President Nixon and Bebe Rebozo discuss logistics for upcoming travel, schedule coordination regarding budget meetings with George Shultz, and potential trip planning to Camp Hoover with Robert Abplanalp. The conversation also touches upon political concerns, specifically the President’s assessment of public opinion polls conducted by Gallup and Harris. Additionally, they discuss media relations, including concerns regarding press coverage in the New York Times and Washington Post and potential libel issues involving John Ehrlichman.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and other staff members to review the political impact of Treasury Secretary John Connally's recent press conference and the broader public perception of the administration’s economic and foreign policies. The discussion focused on analyzing negative polling data, evaluating the administration's tense relationship with George Meany and the AFL-CIO, and strategizing on how to manage legislative priorities, specifically the pending tax bill. Nixon decided to pressure Congress to finalize the tax legislation, potentially calling a special session to force the issue and hold lawmakers accountable for its passage.
President Nixon dictates a memorandum analyzing current political challenges, focusing on his recent reception at the AFL-CIO convention and public reaction to foreign policy developments. He addresses concerns regarding declining public approval ratings linked to the recent United Nations vote, which he views as a significant political liability. The President also evaluates how his upcoming diplomatic trips to China and the Soviet Union might influence public perception and Democratic electoral prospects.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss the administration's tense relationship with organized labor and the potential resignation of George Meany from the Pay Board. They reviewed contingency plans for replacing labor representatives and discussed the President's strategy for managing economic controls and public perception. Additionally, the two reviewed the status of pending tax legislation, upcoming media interview requests, and long-term polling trends compared to the Kennedy administration.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate logistical arrangements for upcoming executive meetings. The discussion primarily focused on the President's calendar, specifically regarding scheduling meetings with Democratic leadership and evaluating recent polling data. No major policy decisions were made, as the conversation served as a brief administrative review of the President's internal schedule and meeting locations.
President Nixon and Charles W. Colson reviewed recent public opinion polling data, specifically focusing on the Louis Harris poll and its implications for the 1972 presidential election. They discussed the President’s standing against potential Democratic rivals like Edmund Muskie, noting how foreign policy events, such as the India-Pakistan War and the bombing of North Vietnam, affected approval ratings. The two concluded that the administration remained in a strong position, particularly as economic indicators showed signs of improvement and positive domestic events provided potential momentum for the campaign.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss administrative appointments, specifically exploring the potential role of Caspar Weinberger as a successor to George Shultz at the Office of Management and Budget. They also coordinate communication strategies regarding Henry Kissinger’s recent meeting with Soviet Ambassador Anatoliy Dobrynin to ensure Secretary of State William Rogers remains informed without disclosing excessive detail. Finally, the two review recent polling data that shows a slight uptick in the President's approval ratings following his January 25th speech on Vietnam.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman reviewed public opinion polling data following the President's recent speech on Vietnam peace negotiations. The discussion focused on the favorable public reception toward the administration's decision to disclose secret negotiations and the President's efforts to reach a settlement. Additionally, the pair briefly touched upon public support for proposed defense spending, property tax reform, and anti-busing legislation, while concluding with a discussion regarding upcoming social events and administrative appointments.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discussed a variety of political and administrative issues, including the status of Democratic-led ITT hearings and the potential resignation of George Meany from the Pay Board. The President emphasized his intent to take a firm stance against labor leaders if they chose to leave the board, prioritizing national interest over special interests. Additionally, the pair reviewed the media reception of recent White House initiatives, specifically praising the President’s aggressive rhetoric regarding inter-agency competition in drug control efforts.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed the political implications of public reaction to the busing issue. The President requested an analysis to determine if there is a correlation between approval ratings and the administration's stance on busing, particularly among voters in the South. This inquiry sought to identify whether support for the administration was driven by its position on desegregation busing or other external factors.
Charles Colson coordinates with Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird to address public reports of internal administration dissent regarding President Nixon’s decision to blockade Vietnam. The participants express frustration over media attempts to create division between the President and his staff, specifically involving John B. Connally. Colson informs Laird that the President is outraged by these leaks and instructs Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler to publicly debunk the claims, while also sharing favorable ORC poll results to bolster Laird’s confidence for his upcoming press conference.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discussed political optics, specifically regarding Vice Presidential speculation and the administration's strategy for managing unfavorable press coverage. They evaluated the public response to the upcoming Soviet summit and the potential for a campaign to expose media hypocrisy regarding the President's Vietnam policies. Additionally, they deliberated the logistical and political implications of a presidential visit to George Wallace following his assassination attempt, while also assessing the anticipated developments in the Vietnam conflict.
President Nixon and Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird discuss political strategy for countering George McGovern's Vietnam policy and defense budget proposals during the 1972 election campaign. Nixon encourages Laird to aggressively challenge the Democratic platform by characterizing McGovern's peace plan as an endorsement of a communist takeover in South Vietnam. They agree that Laird should utilize upcoming media opportunities to emphasize the administration's foreign policy record and criticize McGovern's proposed military spending cuts as detrimental to national security.
President Nixon met with Charles Colson, H.R. Haldeman, and Henry Kissinger to strategize for the final weeks of the 1972 presidential campaign. The discussion centered on monitoring polling data, countering George McGovern’s platform—particularly regarding Vietnam—and maintaining a strong public image of "peace with honor." Nixon emphasized the importance of aggressive political messaging, including the use of surrogates and media tactics to neutralize negative press and emphasize the administration's foreign policy achievements.
President Nixon and George P. Shultz discuss growing public concern over inflation and declining confidence in the administration's economic policies, as highlighted by a recent Harris poll. Nixon directs Shultz to convene a meeting with key economic advisors—including John T. Dunlop, Herbert G. Stein, and Roy L. Ash—to re-evaluate the potential for a price freeze. While acknowledging the political pressure to act, Nixon emphasizes that he will not pursue a freeze if it is deemed ineffective or economically damaging.