Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on Richard M. Nixon
73 conversations · frequently with Nixon, Bull, Sanchez, Haldeman
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to coordinate administrative details regarding an upcoming meeting with officials from the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). They discussed the expected duration of the session and the necessary participation of Alexander M. Haig, Jr. and Charles W. Colson. This brief consultation served to finalize the scheduling and internal staffing requirements for the presidential engagement.
President Nixon met with his personal aide, Stephen B. Bull, to coordinate administrative logistics regarding staff schedules. The discussion focused specifically on the scheduling requirements for Henry A. Kissinger and the President himself, including arrangements for a barber. No major policy decisions were recorded during this brief administrative session.
President Richard M. Nixon and Treasury Secretary John B. Connally held a brief telephone conversation regarding official matters. Due to the withdrawal of the primary content of this recording, the specific substantive details of their discussion remain restricted. No definitive policy decisions or action items are available for analysis from this segment.
President Nixon and his daughter Tricia Nixon Cox discuss the positive public reception of the President's recent televised announcement regarding foreign policy developments. Tricia relays favorable commentary from NBC's John Chancellor, who praised the administration's progress in relations with China and the Soviet Union for transcending domestic politics. The President confirms logistical details for an upcoming cocktail reception at the White House for Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) negotiators, inviting Tricia and Julie Nixon Eisenhower to attend.
President Nixon held a discussion with an unidentified individual, during which he placed a telephone call to the Secretary of Defense. While specific details of the dialogue remain unrecorded, the interaction focused on administrative or strategic matters requiring immediate consultation with the Pentagon leadership. The call serves as a brief point of contact between the President and the Department of Defense regarding ongoing executive oversight.
President Nixon dictates a letter reflecting on his past interactions with the press while preparing for an upcoming press conference. He specifically discusses the performance of Ronald L. Ziegler and John A. Scali, evaluating their roles in managing media relations. The President further analyzes his own strategic approach to public appearances, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining a cooperative persona when addressing the White House press corps.
President Nixon and his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, discussed upcoming scheduling logistics and personal plans. Their conversation focused primarily on the President’s attendance at an 80th Congressional club reception and potential plans for utilizing the presidential yacht, the Sequoia. They also briefly touched upon weather conditions as they evaluated the feasibility of using the vessel the following day.
President Richard M. Nixon met with Anthony T. Rossi and Acheille Mongelli in the Oval Office to discuss his personal wardrobe and tailoring requirements. The group reviewed various fabric samples, colors, and cuts, with a specific focus on achieving a professional appearance for television appearances. Nixon ultimately made decisions regarding the style and fit of his suits, emphasizing the need for comfort and a tailored silhouette.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Congressman Charles E. Chamberlain of Michigan. This brief administrative interaction was intended to facilitate direct communication between the President and the Representative. No further discussion occurred during this recording segment as the operator proceeded to initiate the connection.
President Nixon consulted with an associate regarding the drafting and refinement of his upcoming public address concerning a radical shift in economic policy. The discussion focused on finalizing the rhetoric for this new economic initiative, which was framed as a flexible and responsive system designed to address the nation's contemporary challenges. The participants deliberated on the presentation of these measures, reflecting on the historical significance of the proposed interventions in the American economic landscape.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to review logistical arrangements for an upcoming meeting with Rotary International President Ernst G. Breitholtz. The discussion focused on coordinating the scheduling of this encounter and ensuring the necessary administrative preparations were in place. The brief exchange served to finalize the protocol for the President's engagement with the organization's leadership.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, in the Old Executive Office Building to discuss personal refreshments. During the brief interaction, the President requested a martini. The exchange concludes with Sanchez acknowledging the request and departing to fulfill it.
President Nixon and Alexander M. Haig, Jr. briefly discussed the activities and awareness of the White House press corps. Haig confirmed to the President that the press was actively tracking his ongoing actions. The brief exchange served to acknowledge current media scrutiny and maintain situational awareness regarding public perception.
President Nixon met with his personal valet, Manolo Sanchez, to coordinate the setup of a television in the Old Executive Office. The primary purpose of this brief interaction was for the President to arrange the viewing of the National League Championship Series. No significant policy decisions were made during this exchange, which focused entirely on the President's personal schedule and leisure activities.
President Richard Nixon met in his Old Executive Office Building office to rehearse a forthcoming speech. The session focused on the President's delivery and the refinement of his public address. The final version of these remarks was subsequently published in the 1971 Public Papers of the Presidents.
President Nixon met with Richard A. Moore and Rose Mary Woods to rehearse and refine a televised speech regarding his nominations for the Supreme Court. The discussion focused on articulating the President’s judicial philosophy, specifically his preference for judicial conservatism, while incorporating a quote from commentator Walter Lippmann to support his stance. The participants also addressed the logistics of notifying key stakeholders and the drafting process for the broadcast, which aimed to clarify the administration's approach to judicial appointments.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place an urgent telephone call to Attorney General John N. Mitchell. The brief exchange served as a logistical step to facilitate direct communication between the President and his Attorney General. No further substantive policy matters were discussed during this brief request for a connection.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to review scheduling matters, including preparations for the President’s upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China and a meeting with John Connally. The discussion focused on the logistics of the China delegation, specifically regarding staff appointments, press representation, and the President's personal approval of all personnel traveling with the First Lady. Nixon emphasized his desire to keep the entourage minimal, avoid unnecessary backgrounders with the press, and maintain a disciplined schedule during the visit.
President Nixon consults his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, regarding the scheduling of professional photography sessions in the Old Executive Office Building and the Lincoln Sitting Room to support upcoming press publicity. The two coordinate travel plans to Camp David and discuss staff assignments, including the appointment of John K. Andrews, Jr. to handle editorial work for the First Family. Nixon also confirms that H.R. Haldeman is coordinating with David N. Parker to ensure staff harmony regarding upcoming trip logistics.
President Nixon consulted with his close friend Charles G. "Bebe" Rebozo regarding the reception of his recent political speeches in New York and Chicago, specifically discussing his effort to remain "above the battle" despite media pressure for a more partisan approach. The two also addressed logistics for an upcoming trip to the People's Republic of China and concerns regarding press access. Nixon concluded the conversation by inviting Rebozo to join him at Camp David for the weekend, instructing him to coordinate the travel plans with Rose Mary Woods.
President Richard M. Nixon met with White House photographer Oliver F. Atkins and others to conduct a formal portrait session in the Oval Office. The participants focused on technical aspects of the shoot, including lighting, film speed, and posing techniques designed to project a relaxed and positive presidential image. The discussion centered on coaching Nixon to provide specific expressions, such as a "campaign look" and a wide-open grin, for the photography team.
President Nixon consulted with Stephen B. Bull regarding his upcoming schedule and the need for a briefing from Peter G. Peterson. The discussion focused on coordinating a private update from Peterson concerning a recent Council on International Economic Policy meeting and trade legislation prior to a larger scheduled gathering. Nixon approved the request for a pre-meeting session to review Peterson’s materials and ensure he was prepared for subsequent discussions with cabinet-level officials.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman briefly conferred regarding the President's upcoming schedule, specifically focusing on a meeting with Neil H. McElroy. During the discussion, they addressed the necessity of ensuring John B. Connally's attendance at the session. The brief exchange concluded with the President confirming the inclusion of this item in his agenda.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met briefly in the Oval Office to address the unexplained absence of a plaque from a screen in the room. The President expressed frustration regarding the missing item, prompting a brief inquiry into its location. The exchange concluded without a definitive resolution regarding the plaque's whereabouts.
President Nixon and Clark MacGregor discuss the highly positive reception from congressional leaders, including Barry Goldwater and J. William Fulbright, regarding the President's recent diplomatic trip to the People's Republic of China. MacGregor emphasizes the Senate's pride in the upcoming visit of Majority Leader Mike Mansfield and Minority Leader Hugh Scott to China, noting it bolsters institutional morale. The conversation also touches upon managing Fulbright's specific concerns regarding Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty, as well as the President’s need for rest following his intense workload during the trip.
President Nixon and John B. Connally discuss the aftermath of the President’s recent trip to the People's Republic of China, specifically focusing on the overwhelming public relations success and media domination surrounding the visit. Nixon characterizes his negotiations with Chinese leaders Mao Tse-tung and Chou En-lai as firm and pragmatic. They also address technical failures in the airport sound system during the President's return, leading Nixon to offer a summary of his remarks for an upcoming cabinet meeting.
President Nixon calls Timothy G. Elbourne to formally express appreciation for his extensive 48-day work assignment supporting the recent presidential trip to the People's Republic of China. Nixon acknowledges the logistical challenges faced by Elbourne and his colleagues, lightheartedly noting the positive impression they left on their Chinese counterparts. This brief exchange serves as a gesture of presidential recognition for the staff involved in the mission's successful execution.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate his daily schedule and prioritize upcoming appointments. The discussion focused on organizing a meeting with George P. Shultz regarding the administration's price stabilization program, as well as scheduling time with Nihat Erim. The primary objective was ensuring these economic and diplomatic engagements were properly integrated into the President's immediate agenda.
President Nixon dictates a memorandum for the file regarding his upcoming political strategy. The discussion centers on preparations for a meeting with Republican officials to outline the party's objectives for the following year. This effort reflects the administration's focus on long-term political planning and party coordination.
President Nixon practiced his delivery of a formal address in French, focusing on the proper pronunciation of titles for various Canadian government officials. This rehearsal was in preparation for his official visit to Canada, where he would be delivering remarks before the Canadian Parliament. The session served as a linguistic drill to ensure he could correctly address the Speaker of the House of Commons, the Speaker of the Senate, and the Prime Minister.
President Nixon utilized this session to rehearse French-language segments for his upcoming address before the Canadian Parliament. The discussion involved a review of his intended remarks and a brief assessment of his oratorical performance in previous international engagements. No major policy decisions were made, as the primary focus remained on refining the linguistic delivery of his speech.
President Nixon and Charles Colson discuss strategies for managing public perception of the administration's Vietnam policy, focusing on generating support from religious leaders like Cardinal Krol and discrediting political opponents. They emphasize a high-pressure public relations campaign, including coordinated efforts by the Vice President and Senate allies to frame critics as being aligned with communist interests. Additionally, Nixon instructs Colson to formalize a system for generating organized pressure on local television stations to counter critical network news coverage.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinate the public announcement of FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover's death. Nixon rejects an initial recommendation for Attorney General Richard G. Kleindienst to break the news, insisting that he personally make the announcement to reflect the national significance of the position. They discuss the circumstances of Hoover's passing, including the timing and natural causes, while finalizing logistics for the President's upcoming television statement.
President Nixon directed Richard A. Moore to facilitate a media strategy following the death of J. Edgar Hoover to distance the administration from L. Patrick Gray III. Nixon instructed Moore to place a human-interest story emphasizing the deep, 25-year personal friendship between Nixon and Hoover to contrast it with his purely professional, non-personal relationship with Gray. The President also ordered a total media blackout regarding CBS reporters, specifically citing animosity toward the network.
Henry Kissinger contacts Admiral Thomas H. Moorer to coordinate a high-priority, clandestine meeting with President Nixon. Kissinger instructs Moorer to expedite the departure of a visiting Taiwanese admiral to ensure immediate availability for the President. The conversation emphasizes strict operational security, specifically warning Moorer not to disclose his movements to anyone.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discussed the political reception of the President's recent address to Congress following his historic trip to the Soviet Union. While both men expressed private reservations regarding the quality of the speechwriting, they reviewed positive feedback from various congressional members, newspaper editors, and public segments. The conversation concluded with discussions regarding the upcoming ratification process for the Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT) and the President's need for rest in Florida.
President Nixon and Senator Harry F. Byrd, Jr. engaged in a brief, cordial exchange to return a previous call initiated by the Senator. The conversation focused on social pleasantries and the President's upcoming schedule in Maryland. The two men also commiserated over their mutual distaste for the Washington Post, with Nixon suggesting that the Senator consult a more balanced White House news summary to better gauge national sentiment.
President Richard M. Nixon utilized his time at the Aspen Lodge at Camp David to dictate a formal memorandum. While the specific content remains largely restricted due to the withdrawal of personal materials, the recording captures the President engaged in administrative work and official documentation. The session reflects Nixon's practice of utilizing private, secure environments for high-level executive drafting.
President Richard M. Nixon utilized the recording session at Camp David to rehearse and refine his upcoming acceptance speech for the Republican National Convention. By reviewing portions of the address, Nixon focused on messaging related to social unity, the rejection of discriminatory philosophies, and the goal of building a broad, bipartisan political majority. The exercise allowed the President to polish his oratorical delivery and solidify the ideological framework of his campaign platform.
President Nixon met with his valet, Manolo Sanchez, at Camp David to discuss the administrative preparation of his forthcoming acceptance speech. The primary focus involved ensuring a copy of the draft was delivered to Rose Mary Woods. No other substantive policy matters were recorded during this brief encounter.
President Richard M. Nixon held a brief, five-minute meeting with an unidentified individual in the Old Executive Office Building. Due to the lack of an available transcript and the unintelligible nature of the audio, the specific subject matter and any resulting decisions remain unrecorded. This encounter serves as a placeholder in the historical record of the Nixon presidency's private office consultations.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate the scheduling of upcoming meetings and manage Congressional affairs. The discussion centered on the implications of Congressional adjournment and recent communications from William E. Timmons regarding legislative progress. Additionally, the two addressed the timing and logistics of Nixon's scheduled engagement with Soviet officials.
President Nixon consulted with his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to clarify the logistics of an ethnic press reception scheduled for later that day. Bull confirmed that the event was set for 5:00 p.m. and would be hosted by First Lady Pat Nixon. The President concluded the call by instructing Bull to provide a reminder before the event to ensure his attendance despite a busy schedule.
President Nixon met briefly with his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, in his office to discuss personal matters. The conversation was informal and focused on family updates rather than official government business. No significant policy decisions or administrative actions were recorded during this short encounter.
President Nixon and aide Stephen B. Bull coordinate the scheduling of an upcoming telephone call with the Soviet ambassador. Nixon expresses concern regarding the timing of the engagement while verifying that his administrative staff has addressed necessary preparatory communications. The brief interaction focuses on ensuring the President is available to receive the call as intended.
President Richard M. Nixon and Charles W. Colson held a brief meeting in the Old Executive Office Building to discuss the President's upcoming daily schedule. The interaction lasted for approximately one minute and focused on logistics regarding Nixon's appointments. No substantive policy decisions or critical developments were recorded during this brief exchange.
President Nixon met in the Oval Office to dictate a formal letter of consolation to University of Nebraska football coach Bob Devaney following his team's recent loss to the University of Oklahoma. Nixon expressed his belief that while Devaney is accustomed to the frequent praise associated with winning, a defeat presents an unfamiliar and difficult experience. The President focused on crafting a message that would offer support to the coach during a rare moment of professional adversity.
President Nixon met with Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler to coordinate the public messaging and logistics for an upcoming trip to New York and the subsequent presidential retreat at Camp David. The two discussed how to frame the New York visit to minimize unwanted press intrusion while framing the break as a necessary respite following the intensity of post-election reorganization. Furthermore, they strategized on using Camp David as a functional extension of the White House for announcing second-term administrative appointments to project a sense of stability and active governance.
President Nixon and his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, gathered at the Aspen Lodge study at Camp David to watch a televised professional football game. The pair engaged in informal conversation regarding the unfolding drama of the Washington Redskins versus Dallas Cowboys matchup, noting the Redskins' significant comeback. The discussion remained focused exclusively on the sports event, serving as a brief period of personal leisure for the President.
President Nixon expressed intense frustration to Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler regarding the presence of Washington Post reporters at the White House Christmas tree display. Reasserting a previous ban on the newspaper's staff, the President ordered Ziegler to contact Connie Stuart to demand an explanation for the breach and to threaten her with immediate termination should such an unauthorized access occur again. Ziegler was instructed to verify the situation and report back to the President promptly.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to discuss an injury to the President’s foot and the associated press coverage. Additionally, the two reviewed the President’s upcoming schedule, specifically addressing a planned meeting with J. Willard Marriott and the involvement of Dwight L. Chapin. The discussion concluded shortly thereafter as Bull departed the Oval Office.
President Nixon called newly elected Senator Joseph R. Biden, Jr. to offer his personal condolences following the tragic automobile accident that claimed the lives of Biden’s wife, Nealia, and their daughter. During the brief exchange, Nixon expressed sympathy for the family's loss and encouraged the grieving Senator to look toward his future career. Drawing on his own experience entering the House of Representatives at a young age, Nixon sought to provide comfort and encouragement to Biden during his period of profound personal crisis.
President Nixon met with Charles W. Colson to discuss public perception of the ongoing Vietnam War, specifically the recent escalation of bombing campaigns north of the 20th Parallel. They analyzed the political strategies for managing the 'hawks' and 'doves' in Congress and the media, while emphasizing the administration's commitment to achieving an 'honorable peace' that secures the return of prisoners of war. Nixon expressed his desire to frame the current military actions as a necessary response to North Vietnam's failure to adhere to previously discussed settlement terms.
President Nixon met with Patrick J. Buchanan to discuss the framework and themes for a prospective book about the Nixon administration. The conversation focused on framing Nixon’s political career as a narrative of overcoming adversity, specifically highlighting his 1968 comeback and the ideological battles against the "liberal establishment" and the national media. They also analyzed campaign strategies, the importance of maintaining emotional detachment from press criticism, and the effective, strategic use of television to communicate directly with the American public.
President Nixon met with his valet, Manolo Sanchez, while documenting administrative notes regarding his upcoming schedule and work pressures. The discussion focused on the high-stakes negotiations surrounding the Vietnam settlement, involving key advisors Henry Kissinger and Alexander Haig. Additionally, the President addressed preparations for his 1973 Inauguration, including final adjustments to his address and associated reception events.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed logistical details regarding an upcoming Republican National Committee (RNC) reception. They discussed the President's speaking engagement, including the schedule for photographs and the involvement of key figures such as Spiro T. Agnew, Robert J. Dole, and Anne Armstrong. The discussion focused on finalizing the timing and coordination of these ceremonial duties.
President Nixon dictated a memorandum for his files to document various administrative and political matters following his second inauguration. The recording covers preparations for a speech on the Vietnam settlement, reflections on the public reception of his inaugural address, and updates regarding White House staff and press relations. Additionally, the President noted recent engagements with officials, including Admiral Thomas H. Moorer, and touched upon developments regarding Henry Kissinger’s schedule and international reactions to the Vietnam peace efforts.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a telephone call to Mrs. William Randolph Hearst at her residence in New York. The brief exchange served as a logistical request to facilitate direct communication with the prominent social figure. The operator acknowledged the directive and proceeded to initiate the connection.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinate a follow-up meeting to continue their ongoing private discussions. The exchange serves as a brief logistical check-in to ensure they can review additional matters before the President concludes his workday. This interaction reflects the frequent and immediate nature of their consultations during this period.
President Nixon and Stephen Bull met briefly to review the President’s daily schedule and pending administrative tasks. The discussion focused on arrangements for a phone call to Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau regarding the International Commission of Control and Supervision (ICCS) in Vietnam, following a recommendation from General Brent Scowcroft. Nixon ultimately directed that the call be prioritized to address the status of his correspondence with the Prime Minister.
President Nixon utilized the recording system to dictate a memorandum for his personal files regarding the activities of the day. This action served to formalize the President's internal record-keeping process during a period of intense administrative activity. No other participants were present for this dictation, and the specific subject matter of the memorandum remains undefined in the available transcript.
President Nixon instructed the White House operator to place a call to Dick Cook while inquiring about the current whereabouts of Billy Graham. The operator confirmed that Graham was traveling between locations, including Montreat and Pittsburgh, and assured the President that Graham was aware of the White House's attempts to reach him. This brief exchange highlights Nixon’s efforts to coordinate communications with key political and religious contacts.
President Nixon met with his personal aide, Manolo Sanchez, in the Oval Office to request assistance with his personal effects. The President specifically instructed Sanchez to handle a set of bolts intended for use on the President's back. This brief interaction focused on routine personal support rather than matters of state.
President Nixon and Lawrence M. Higby held a brief meeting in the Old Executive Office Building that lasted only one minute. The transcript for this interaction remains undefined, providing no substantive record of the topics discussed or specific administrative decisions made. Consequently, this brief encounter offers no actionable historical insight into the President’s agenda at the time.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman briefly coordinate a meeting to discuss an incoming call from Mr. Holloman. The two confirm their availability and agree to convene at the White House immediately following the call. This interaction serves as a logistical arrangement to facilitate further private communication regarding ongoing matters.
President Nixon consulted with a White House operator to locate his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, in order to facilitate a personal phone call. After learning that Julie was out shopping with First Lady Pat Nixon, the President instructed the operator to attempt to reach his other daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox, instead. The brief exchange served purely administrative and personal purposes regarding family communications.
President Nixon consulted with a White House operator to facilitate personal calls to his daughters. After confirming that both Julie Nixon Eisenhower and Tricia Nixon Cox were currently unavailable due to travel, the President decided to postpone his outreach. No substantive policy or political matters were discussed during this brief exchange.
President Nixon consulted with his aide, Stephen B. Bull, to adjust his late-afternoon schedule regarding an upcoming meeting with Nelson Rockefeller. To accommodate additional administrative tasks, the President pushed the start time of the meeting back to 4:15 p.m. in the Oval Office. Nixon also confirmed that Rockefeller would be accompanied by former Delaware Governor Russell W. Peterson.
President Nixon contacted the White House operator to place an outgoing call to former Treasury Secretary John B. Connally. This interaction served solely as a logistical request to connect with Connally for a private discussion. No further policy or administrative actions were conducted during this brief exchange.
President Nixon consulted with his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, to coordinate her attendance on a brief excursion aboard the presidential yacht, the Sequoia. After confirming Woods' current availability, Nixon instructed her to meet him at the South Grounds within twenty minutes to facilitate transportation together. The brief exchange focused primarily on scheduling logistics and travel arrangements for the outing.
President Nixon and his daughter, Julie Nixon Eisenhower, discuss their respective public engagements and the ongoing, highly successful diplomatic visit of Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev. Amidst the summit, Nixon emphasizes that the global importance of his negotiations outweighs the domestic political distractions of the Watergate scandal. Additionally, they discuss the positive reception of Julie’s recent public speaking, the upcoming schedule for David Eisenhower, and recent reports discrediting John Dean regarding financial misconduct.
President Nixon and his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox, discuss managing the public narrative surrounding his recent health concerns. The President expresses a clear desire to avoid drawing excessive attention to his condition, rejecting a proposed five-day precautionary measure to prevent the situation from appearing larger than it is. The conversation concludes with a mutual agreement to keep the matter low-profile.
President Nixon calls his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, to personally inform her of his diagnosis of viral pneumonia and his impending week-long hospitalization at Bethesda. The two discuss his frustration regarding forced rest and the President's instructions to Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler concerning the public announcement of his condition. Nixon expresses cynical amusement at the prospect of the White House press corps applauding the news of his illness.