Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on Ronald Reagan
58 conversations · frequently with Nixon, Haldeman, Ehrlichman, Reagan
These are conversations about Ronald Reagan. For the 18 conversations Reagan took part in, see Ronald Reagan’s page →
When Ronald Reagan comes up
Related topics: Presidential schedulingWhite House operationsPublic relationsPresidential communicationForeign Policy1972 electionWelfare ReformUnited NationsTaiwanHenry KissingerDiplomacyWhite House communicationsPolitical strategyNelson Rockefeller
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the social dynamics and political hostilities encountered during recent White House functions. Haldeman analyzes the personal animosity displayed by Ronald and Nancy Reagan toward the President, comparing it to the visible disdain previously observed in Eunice Shriver during a diplomatic dinner. The conversation emphasizes the perceived emotional reactions of various political figures toward Nixon's presence in office.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to finalize the agenda for an upcoming Cabinet meeting focused on stabilizing wages and prices. They reviewed the roles of Paul McCracken and James Hodgson in presenting the administration's plan, which included a strategy to secure support from union leader George Meany. Additionally, the two discussed managing political tensions regarding California Governor Ronald Reagan's opposition to the California Rural Legal Assistance (CRLA) program.
On April 7, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:14 pm and 11:21 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 001-042 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss the need to adopt a 'hard-line' public stance on welfare reform to address rising public frustration and secure support for H.R. 1. The President emphasizes shifting the narrative away from expanding welfare rolls toward promoting work requirements and personal responsibility, utilizing striking anecdotes similar to those used by Governor Ronald Reagan. To implement this communication strategy, Nixon instructs Ehrlichman to coordinate with speechwriter William Safire to develop tough, persuasive rhetoric that highlights the systemic problems with the current welfare apparatus.
On June 9, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:17 pm and 4:38 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 004-101 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Robert H. Finch discuss long-term political strategy, specifically focusing on positioning for the 1972 re-election campaign and Finch’s future career path. The two assess the political climate in California, the influence of Ronald Reagan, and the necessity of managing internal Republican dynamics and potential primary challengers. They also evaluate prospective roles for Finch, including a possible ambassadorship to Mexico or leadership of the Office of Emergency Preparedness (OEP), to ensure his visibility and continued contribution to the administration while preparing for a 1974 political campaign.
President Nixon and his advisors discussed the scheduling of various domestic and international political meetings, including an upcoming engagement with Ronald Reagan. Much of the conversation focused on managing the public relations challenges surrounding Vice President Spiro Agnew’s recent foreign travel, with the participants expressing frustration over his negative relationship with the press and his preference for recreational activities over substantive engagement. The group also touched upon economic strategy, the upcoming federal budget, and ongoing labor concerns in the steel and shipping industries.
President Nixon initiated this call to Senator Carl T. Curtis to lobby for support on the proposed Lockheed loan guarantee amendment, emphasizing the severe political and economic risks to the 1972 election in California. Drawing on conversations with Governor Ronald Reagan, Nixon highlighted how further distress in the aerospace and defense sectors would exacerbate regional unemployment. Beyond the immediate legislative push, Nixon requested a private future meeting with Curtis to discuss the administration's welfare reform bill, H.R. 1, seeking to align Republican support while minimizing public friction within the party.
President Nixon and Alexander P. Butterfield met to coordinate the President's upcoming schedule and administrative personnel matters. The discussion focused on the logistics of engaging Ronald Reagan as a personal representative, alongside briefings regarding the Republic of China and various California-based meetings. They further addressed the procedural requirements for formal documentation and the transparency needed for high-level appointments.
On August 11, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 8:20 pm and 8:24 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 007-096 of the White House Tapes.
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 met with Lorenzo and David Hoopes, along with H. R. Haldeman and a White House photographer, to facilitate a brief photo opportunity and exchange presidential cufflinks. The discussion touched upon Lorenzo Hoopes’s professional background at Safeway, his reactions to the President's economic policies, and regional matters regarding California education appointments. The encounter served primarily as a social engagement and a platform for establishing interpersonal connections with the business-affiliated guests.
On October 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:18 am and 11:13 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 013-007 of the White House Tapes.
Governor Ronald Reagan called President Nixon the day after the UN voted to expel Taiwan and seat the People's Republic of China. Reagan expressed his strong disapproval of the UN vote and suggested a US policy shift where the US would participate in UN debates but abstain from voting, arguing this would resonate with American public opinion and serve as a strong 1972 campaign issue. Nixon acknowledged Reagan's concerns and his own efforts to lobby UN member states, noting the difficulty of the situation and mentioning ongoing efforts to de-escalate the India-Pakistan conflict. The conversation also briefly touched on potential Supreme Court nominees.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discuss the public and political fallout following the United Nations' vote regarding Taiwan, specifically addressing California Governor Ronald Reagan's outrage over the proceedings. The two men agree on the importance of framing the U.S. position as a principled defense and mitigating domestic frustration by emphasizing ongoing efforts to reduce U.S. financial support for the UN. Nixon directs Rogers to call Reagan to explain the administration's exhaustive lobbying efforts, including personal appeals, while cautioning that withdrawing from the UN would be impractical due to urgent diplomatic needs like the escalating India-Pakistan conflict.
On October 26, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and William P. Rogers talked on the telephone from 1:50 pm to 1:51 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 013-014 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss the political fallout of the United Nations vote on Taiwan and the administration's strategy to manage domestic reaction. The conversation centers on coordinating efforts to prevent influential figures like Ronald Reagan and William F. Buckley, Jr. from public dissent, with Henry Kissinger facilitating communications to keep them aligned. Nixon evaluates the performance of Secretary of State William P. Rogers during the crisis and confirms his reliance on John Mitchell to help manage key political stakeholders.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss the political fallout from the United Nations' recent vote to expel Taiwan and the potential impact of Nixon's upcoming initiative to visit the People's Republic of China. The two reviewed U.S. diplomatic efforts, assessed public and political reaction among domestic critics, and discussed strategies for managing international relations ahead of the 1972 election. They also addressed coordination with figures like Ronald Reagan regarding his recent Asia trip and finalized arrangements for upcoming scheduling and correspondence.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss political messaging strategies in response to a recent Senate vote on foreign aid. Nixon praises George H.W. Bush’s media performance, contrasting his loyalty with the perceived deficiencies of Charles Yost, while dismissing Henry Kissinger's recommendation for a presidential television address on the complex, technical topic. The two also coordinate upcoming cabinet scheduling and explore the possibility of inviting Ronald Reagan to an official dinner for Indira Gandhi.
President Nixon and Attorney General John Mitchell discuss the potential appointment of Earl L. Butz to lead the Department of Agriculture, with Mitchell expressing confidence in Butz's suitability for the role. The two men also review political feedback regarding recent speeches and endorsements from Ronald Reagan and Nelson Rockefeller. Additionally, they touch upon ongoing tensions between the administration and Governor Reagan regarding Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW) programs, which Mitchell intends to address with John Ehrlichman.
John D. Ehrlichman and Attorney General John N. Mitchell discuss friction with Governor Ronald Reagan regarding welfare reform negotiations between his office and the Department of Health, Education and Welfare. Reagan had been complaining to Vice President Agnew about the perceived lack of progress and broken commitments, prompting concern within the administration. They agree that Mitchell should instruct Reagan to resolve the specific dispute over program slots directly with Secretary Elliot Richardson, avoiding further involvement of the President.
President Nixon spoke with Asa V. Call to exchange pleasantries regarding personal health and to discuss the political landscape in California. The two addressed the need for a moderate voice in the state and evaluated the electoral prospects of Ronald Reagan. Additionally, they touched upon the President's upcoming schedule, including a meeting with Governor Reagan and general outreach strategies for the 1972 election.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discussed a wide range of administrative and political concerns, including the management of White House dinner invitation lists and the potential political risks associated with a proposed address to the AFL-CIO. The President expressed skepticism about the value of speaking to labor leaders, weighing the potential for building support against the risk of appearing desperate or being misinterpreted. Additionally, the pair evaluated the political standing of Governor Ronald Reagan and reviewed personnel management strategies for the Cabinet and White House staff, emphasizing the need to recruit high-performing individuals for a potential second term.
President Nixon met with his aide Stephen B. Bull to coordinate logistical details and review the scheduling for upcoming high-level meetings. The discussion focused on finalizing arrangements for impending consultations with Henry Kissinger, Ronald Reagan, and Attorney General John Mitchell. Nixon emphasized the need for careful preparation to ensure these appointments were managed effectively.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed domestic political management, specifically addressing concerns raised by Ronald Reagan regarding conservative alienation and administrative patronage. The two also coordinated on filling high-level ambassadorships, including efforts to recruit David Kennedy for a NATO post and potential candidates for the Japan ambassadorship. Finally, they formulated a hardline strategy for upcoming Vietnam peace negotiations, directing U.S. representatives to walk away from talks lacking high-level North Vietnamese authority while considering a resumption of bombing to counter North Vietnamese military buildups.
President Nixon and John Mitchell met to discuss strategies for managing relations with conservative political factions and address the political standing of California Governor Ronald Reagan. They examined the challenges of integrating right-wing supporters into the 1972 campaign organization while tempering their expectations, specifically noting the need to keep campaign management professional. Additionally, the pair discussed potential vetoes for legislation concerning child care, with Nixon expressing ideological opposition to federal interventions he believed would undermine the traditional family structure.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to discuss the administration's legislative strategy regarding HR1 and a problematic amendment threatening the broader tax bill. The discussion focused on the political necessity of avoiding a presidential veto of the tax package while managing potentially unfavorable legislative amendments. They ultimately decided to pursue negotiations with Senator Charles Percy to mitigate the amendment's impact and effectively handle the political leverage involving state governors and Governor Ronald Reagan.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss the successful negotiation of a memorandum of understanding with Senator Charles Percy regarding welfare reform legislation. The administration agrees to support an amendment to avoid a broader legislative defeat, while maintaining that this position does not necessitate including the program in the federal budget. They also address the political motivations of Governors Ronald Reagan and Nelson Rockefeller, and finalize plans to provide financial assistance to Governor Richard Ogilvie by shifting welfare costs into the current fiscal year.
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.
On November 24, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 8:09 am and 8:49 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 624-007 of the White House Tapes.
On December 24, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 2:12 pm and 2:16 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 017-014 of the White House Tapes.
On December 24, 1971, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 2:12 pm and 2:16 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 309-013 of the White House Tapes.
President Richard Nixon called Governor Ronald Reagan to exchange Christmas greetings and invite him to join a diplomatic golf outing with Japanese Prime Minister Eisaku Sato at Walter Annenberg’s estate. Nixon planned for the January 7, 1972, event to serve as a symbolic gesture to strengthen U.S.-Japan relations following formal policy discussions. Reagan expressed interest in attending, though he noted he would verify his schedule, and Nixon confirmed that political rivals Senators John Tunney and Alan Cranston were explicitly excluded from the invitation.
President Richard Nixon contacted Governor Ronald Reagan to extend holiday greetings and formally invite him to join a diplomatic outing with Japanese Prime Minister Eisaku Satō. The proposed event, scheduled for January 7, 1972, involved a golf outing at the estate of Ambassador Walter Annenberg following official meetings. Reagan accepted the invitation, and the two men concluded the brief discussion with personal remarks regarding the upcoming Washington Redskins versus San Francisco 49ers playoff game.
On January 26, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 12:11 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 019-097 of the White House Tapes.
On January 26, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, Ronald W. Reagan, and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at 12:11 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 656-013 of the White House Tapes.
On January 26, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and Rose Mary Woods talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:14 pm and 12:25 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 019-099 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Press Secretary Ronald L. Ziegler to coordinate messaging regarding welfare reform and the administration's stance on state-level experimentation. They discussed recent interactions with Ronald Reagan and Washington Governor Daniel J. Evans, focusing on maintaining administrative control over welfare funding and federal waivers. The discussion aimed to ensure consistent public remarks during upcoming press conferences and Senate Finance Committee engagements.
On February 28, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 10:46 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 020-104 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger debriefed the President's recent trip to the People's Republic of China via telephone. They discussed the public and political reception of the trip, particularly addressing concerns raised by a Washington Post headline that misinterpreted the communiqué regarding Taiwan. They also strategized on how to manage media narratives and political figures like Ronald Reagan and Barry Goldwater, and touched upon messages exchanged with the Soviet Union and Nixon's upcoming meeting with Ambassador Dobrynin.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed upcoming public relations strategy regarding the Vietnam War, specifically noting Governor Ronald Reagan's strong support for the administration's bombing campaign. Kissinger reported that he shared speech materials with Soviet diplomat Yuli Vorontsov to clarify the U.S. position amidst intense press speculation. The two agreed to maintain a unified message and avoid further media contact ahead of a scheduled afternoon meeting to finalize the President's speech.
President Nixon and John N. Mitchell discuss the positive public reception to the President’s recent televised address regarding Vietnam, specifically focusing on the new blockade strategy and peace offers. Nixon reaffirms his resolve to maintain the pressure despite potential diplomatic fallout with the Soviet Union, emphasizing the psychological impact on North Vietnam. Additionally, the two men coordinate efforts to pressure Republican candidate John M. Ashbrook to withdraw from the 1972 presidential nomination race, with Nixon approving a European trip for Ronald Reagan to ensure his cooperation.
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 and U. Alexis Johnson discussed the scheduling and diplomatic priorities for Secretary of State William P. Rogers's upcoming trip to Rome. The primary concern involved coordinating Rogers's meetings with Italian government officials in light of an impending visit by Ronald Reagan and the status of the Italian government. Additionally, they evaluated the diplomatic impact of U.S. recognition of Yemen and potential outreach to Algeria, with Johnson emphasizing the importance of securing the Algerian connection to improve regional diplomatic outcomes.
President Nixon met with his personal secretary, Rose Mary Woods, to coordinate the communication of John N. Mitchell’s resignation. During a brief telephone exchange, Nixon arranged to call Ronald Reagan to discuss the resignation, as well as the strategic value of Reagan's previous trips to Asia and Europe. The discussion prioritized the management of political messaging regarding Mitchell's departure and outreach to key figures like Reagan.
On July 1, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:12 am and 11:25 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 026-035 of the White House Tapes.
President Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan coordinated the logistics of Reagan's upcoming travel and his scheduled meeting with Henry Kissinger. The discussion centered on aligning schedules and determining the conditions under which Reagan should proceed with specific diplomatic or committee-related objectives. Nixon emphasized the necessity of Kissinger’s involvement to ensure the meetings and itineraries were properly managed.
President Nixon dictates a memorandum to H. R. Haldeman and Henry Kissinger regarding follow-up actions from his recent discussion with Ronald Reagan, including potential adjustments to U.S. policy on Irish Airlines. The President also outlines strategic objectives for upcoming meetings with foreign leaders, specifically emphasizing the need for a unified Western stance on nuclear defense and European security ahead of negotiations with the Soviet Union. To manage his schedule, Nixon directs staff to limit foreign minister meetings, suggesting that his engagement with Sir Alec Douglas-Home be handled via a casual breakfast or a private trip on the presidential yacht, Sequoia.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed the President’s upcoming schedule to manage his availability for the remainder of the week. The discussion focused on coordinating potential meetings with key figures, including Daniel P. Moynihan, H.R. Haldeman, and Ronald Reagan. They further addressed the logistics and timing regarding the President's planned departure.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the preparation of the President's upcoming acceptance speech, specifically evaluating the writing contributions of John K. Andrews, Jr. and Aram Bakshian. Nixon expresses concerns over the overly religious and "sappy" tone of Andrews's drafts, mandating that he adopt a sharper style similar to Bakshian's. The pair decides to have Andrews adjust his approach to meet Nixon's requirements, with plans for him to join the President's team around the time of Ronald Reagan's scheduled visit.
President Nixon met with political advisor Murray Chotiner to discuss various Republican political maneuvers and personnel strategies for the upcoming term. The conversation centered on potential candidates for California, including Robert H. Finch and Ronald Reagan, as well as the importance of strengthening Republican representation in the House and Senate. Nixon emphasized the need for better quality candidates and active involvement in future electoral efforts to ensure the success of his administration.
President Nixon met with George H. W. Bush to discuss the transition of Robert Finch out of his current role and into a potential Senate candidacy, as well as coordination efforts regarding Ronald Reagan and California gubernatorial politics. The conversation subsequently pivoted to the Watergate scandal and its impact on the administration's relationship with Congress. Nixon emphasized the necessity of handling ongoing investigations through the Grand Jury process rather than congressional committees, while they addressed the potential legal exposure of campaign staff members like Kenneth Rietz and Jeb Magruder.
On April 30, 1973, Tricia Nixon Cox, White House operator, and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:45 pm and 10:48 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 045-052 of the White House Tapes.
Governor Ronald Reagan placed a courtesy call to President Richard Nixon to offer personal support and prayers following the President’s televised address regarding the Watergate scandal. The conversation focused on the resignations of H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, with Reagan affirming his continued loyalty to the administration. Nixon expressed appreciation for the gesture while emphasizing the necessity of their shared commitment to global peace amidst the ongoing political crisis.
President Nixon and his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox, connected via telephone to facilitate a conversation with Tricia's husband, Edward Cox. During the call, it was noted that the President had been receiving numerous communications from high-profile figures, including Cabinet members, Billy Graham, and Governor Ronald Reagan, in the wake of his televised address regarding the Watergate scandal. The interaction served primarily to coordinate family communication during a period of intense political pressure.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull coordinate a series of follow-up telephone calls to gauge reactions to the President's recent speech on the economy. Bull updates the President on the status of various callers, including political allies and public opinion figures. Nixon decides to personally speak with Governor Ronald Reagan and pollster Louis Harris to conclude his outreach efforts for the evening.
On June 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:26 pm and 10:32 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 040-094 of the White House Tapes.