Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on Special Prosecutor
46 conversations · frequently with Nixon, Haig, Ziegler, Rogers
H. R. Haldeman and Charles Colson discuss a strategic proposal to deflect public perception of a Watergate cover-up by having Attorney General Richard Kleindienst consult Judge John Sirica. Haldeman suggests offering a special prosecutor, a new grand jury, and voluntary staff testimony to avoid a hostile appearance before the Ervin Committee. Colson expresses strong skepticism, arguing that such an initiative would appear as an act of panic and warning that the appointment of a special prosecutor would be a catastrophic mistake.
President Nixon recorded a memorandum for the file to document his internal deliberations regarding the escalating Watergate scandal. He analyzed the political viability of appointing an independent commission or special prosecutor, weighing those options against the potential for White House cooperation and the impact of a televised public address. The discussion also addressed potential legal vulnerabilities for key administration officials, including John Mitchell, Jeb Magruder, and John Ehrlichman, while drawing historical parallels to the political challenges faced by the Lyndon B. Johnson administration.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman met to discuss crisis management strategies regarding the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on the mounting legal threats from the grand jury and potential criminal charges against White House staff. They evaluated the merits of appointing a special counsel and the necessity of retaining an experienced criminal defense lawyer to navigate the vulnerability of White House aides. The conversation centered on the potential danger of a 'runaway' grand jury and emphasized maintaining executive privilege while managing the perceived risk of a 'cover-up' versus the impact of full public disclosure.
President Nixon dictates a memorandum for the file to document his internal deliberations regarding the escalating Watergate scandal. The recording reflects his concerns over the potential appointment of a special prosecutor, the creation of an independent commission, and the ongoing investigation into White House staff involvement, including Charles Colson. The President further considers the political fallout of potential testimony and the strategic response to the Ervin Committee's inquiries into campaign activities.
In this meeting, President Nixon and John Ehrlichman coordinate the administration's response to the escalating Watergate crisis, focusing on the potential appointment of a special prosecutor and the necessity of obtaining sworn statements from White House staff to counter the Ervin Committee's investigation. They discuss the strategic timing of releasing these statements to preempt forthcoming testimony and manage political fallout from key Republicans like Barry Goldwater. Additionally, the participants deliberate over the potential political ramifications of base closures in various states and the necessity of securing H.R. Haldeman's cooperation during the unfolding congressional hearings.
President Nixon met with Ronald Ziegler and others to discuss the escalating legal and political risks posed by the Watergate scandal, specifically the potential consequences of White House staff members providing sworn affidavits. Ziegler warned that such statements could invite further, uncontrollable demands for testimony from the President and his senior aides, potentially ensnaring the administration in a wider investigation. The group debated various defensive strategies, including the possibility of issuing 'complete' preemptive statements to control the narrative, the potential resignation of John Dean, and the risks associated with the upcoming Senate committee hearings.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the administration’s strategy for handling the mounting Watergate scandal, specifically debating whether to cooperate with congressional investigations or rely on the judicial process. They weigh the potential impact of high-level indictments and deliberate on the appointment of a special prosecutor to ensure the investigation remains thorough and credible. Nixon ultimately concludes that maintaining confidence in the American judicial system, rather than engaging in a high-profile public defense, is the best path to restore public trust.
President Nixon and Attorney General Richard Kleindienst discuss the escalating Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the emerging testimony of Jeb Stuart Magruder and the potential legal jeopardy of top White House officials H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. They weigh the necessity of appointing a special prosecutor or delegating oversight to Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen to avoid conflicts of interest, particularly given Kleindienst's close personal association with John Mitchell. The conversation highlights the administration's concern over obstruction of justice allegations and the need to restore public confidence in the Justice Department without preemptively assuming guilt or forcing resignations.
President Nixon and Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen discussed the ongoing Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the potential granting of immunity to John Dean and the administration's need to maintain credibility. Nixon reiterated his decision not to meet with Dean, deferring all prosecutorial discretion regarding immunity and plea bargaining to Petersen to ensure an unbiased pursuit of the truth. Additionally, they reviewed the status of the Ellsberg trial and explored the possibility of appointing a respected outsider, such as John McCloy, to oversee key decisions alongside Justice Department officials to alleviate public concerns.
President Nixon and newly appointed Attorney General Elliot Richardson spoke to discuss the fallout of the Watergate scandal and Richardson's upcoming confirmation. Richardson expressed strong support for the President’s recent televised address, while Nixon reaffirmed his confidence in Richardson's ability to handle the investigation. The two touched upon the sensitive issue of appointing a special prosecutor, with Nixon granting Richardson full autonomy to decide how to proceed while promising his complete backing in the pursuit of the truth.
President Nixon met with William E. Timmons and William J. Baroody, Jr. to discuss the administration's political strategy and public messaging following his April 30 speech regarding the Watergate scandal. The President emphasized the need for his staff to maintain an upbeat, aggressive demeanor while navigating congressional inquiries and the potential appointment of a special prosecutor by Elliot Richardson. Nixon specifically directed the team to monitor staff members like W. Richard Howard to ensure they remained focused and avoided legal exposure as the administration braced for continued political pressure.
President Nixon and his secretary, Rose Mary Woods, reviewed correspondence and reports concerning the public and political reaction to the President's April 30, 1973, televised address regarding the Watergate scandal. They discussed various supporters and critics, specifically noting concerns about Senator Charles Percy’s advocacy for a special prosecutor and the supportive messages received from family and political allies. The discussion served as an informal status update on the administration's political standing and the incoming volume of communications during the crisis.
President Nixon met with Representative Leslie C. Arends to discuss the ongoing political pressure surrounding the Watergate scandal. Comparing his current personnel difficulties to President Eisenhower's dismissal of Sherman Adams, Nixon expressed his resolve in managing the crisis and his administration's staffing changes. The conversation focused on maintaining political support and addressing the contentious push from figures like Senator Charles Percy for the appointment of a special prosecutor.
President Nixon met with communications director Herbert G. Klein to discuss the administration's ongoing Watergate crisis and strategies for handling press inquiries. Nixon advised Klein to remain silent regarding specific details of the scandal and to refer all questions to Special Prosecutor Elliot Richardson to avoid self-incrimination or fueling further speculation. They also addressed morale among White House staff following the recent departures of H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, with Nixon emphasizing the importance of team loyalty and his own commitment to supporting his staff against external criticism. Additionally, they discussed Klein’s future career prospects and personal transition out of the administration.
President Nixon and Robert Finch discussed public reaction to the recent resignations of H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, as well as the President’s recent televised address regarding the Watergate scandal. Nixon expressed frustration with Senator Charles Percy’s public call for a special prosecutor and emphasized that his administration was committed to a transparent investigation. Additionally, the two discussed personnel management, with Nixon specifically requesting that Herbert Klein delay his departure to avoid the appearance that his exit was linked to the ongoing scandal.
President Nixon consults with Robert H. Finch regarding the political fallout of the Watergate scandal and the departure of key administration officials. Nixon expresses frustration toward critics, particularly Senator Charles Percy, while emphasizing the administration's commitment to self-investigation. He urges Finch to maintain high morale and discourages personnel from resigning immediately to avoid the appearance that such departures are linked to the ongoing scandal.
President Nixon met with William J. Baroody, Jr. to discuss the administration's internal morale and efforts to cultivate public support following recent Watergate-related pressures. They evaluated the potential departure of staff members connected to the scandal and reviewed positive public reactions to the President's recent televised address, including feedback from ethnic leaders and business groups. Additionally, they touched upon the political implications of a Senate resolution calling for a special prosecutor, with the President advising a cautious, discreet approach toward managing staff personnel and future investigations.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discuss how incoming Attorney General Elliot Richardson should respond to Senate pressure regarding the appointment of a special prosecutor for the Watergate investigation. Rogers advises that Richardson should proactively propose consulting with congressional leaders rather than appearing forced by a Senate resolution, a strategy intended to defend Richardson's integrity. Nixon agrees with this approach, noting that the pressure from figures like Senator Charles Percy unfairly undermines the new Attorney General's credibility.
President Nixon consulted Secretary of State William P. Rogers regarding the political pressure to appoint a special prosecutor for the Watergate investigation. Nixon expressed concern over how to advise incoming Attorney General Elliot Richardson on handling the potential Senate resolution. The two agreed to approach the issue cautiously, viewing the push for a special prosecutor as a tactical challenge to the administration’s authority.
President Nixon and Attorney General-designate Elliot Richardson discuss the impending appointment of a Special Prosecutor to investigate the Watergate scandal. They agree that while Richardson should appoint an independent figure to oversee the investigation, he must retain ultimate authority and responsibility as Attorney General rather than fully abdicating oversight. Richardson plans to consult with Senate Judiciary Committee members to ensure his proposed management structure, which includes replacing Henry E. Petersen, maintains his command while satisfying congressional demands for integrity.
President Nixon and Elliot Richardson discuss the ongoing Watergate investigations and the political challenges surrounding the nomination of a new special prosecutor. Nixon emphasizes that as Attorney General, Richardson holds absolute authority over the investigation and suggests replacing Henry Petersen to alleviate public pressure. The two men agree on the importance of Richardson maintaining control while navigating the expectations of the Senate.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discussed the administration's strategy for addressing mounting pressure regarding a potential Watergate special prosecutor. Nixon emphasized that the President should not appoint the prosecutor directly, insisting that the authority rests solely with the Attorney General to ensure the ongoing investigation is not disrupted. Ziegler provided feedback on the positive public and select press reactions to the President's recent televised address, and Nixon instructed him to maintain a firm, confident posture during future press briefings.
President Nixon directed Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler to coordinate with William Timmons on an aggressive lobbying strategy targeting members of the House and Senate Judiciary Committees. The primary objective was to secure bipartisan congressional support for Elliot Richardson’s nomination and to push back against legislative scrutiny regarding the special prosecutor’s authority. Nixon emphasized the immediate need for Timmons to move past defensive posturing and proactively cultivate key Democrats, such as James O. Eastland, to stabilize the administration's position amidst the Watergate fallout.
President Nixon consults with Secretary of State William P. Rogers to manage the escalating Watergate crisis and the appointment of a special prosecutor. Nixon asks Rogers to coordinate with Elliot Richardson to ensure the executive branch retains control over the appointment process, specifically countering public criticism from Senator Charles H. Percy. Rogers agrees to take charge of the situation and guide administration messaging on the matter while also commending the President’s performance at a recent state dinner.
President Nixon directs William Timmons to coordinate with Congressional leaders to consolidate support for Attorney General nominee Elliot Richardson’s authority regarding the Watergate investigation. Nixon emphasizes the need to convince key Republicans, such as Buckley and Goldwater, and influential Democrats that empowering Richardson to appoint a special prosecutor is preferable to restarting the entire investigative process. Timmons is instructed to make this lobbying effort his top priority to counter Senate pressure and ensure the continuity of the FBI’s existing progress.
Henry Kissinger calls President Nixon to offer praise for a recent toast and to discuss the political fallout from the Watergate scandal. The two reflect on the necessity of the President’s recent televised address and the resignation of top aides H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. Nixon expresses resolve to shift focus back to national governance, while Kissinger encourages the President to maintain personal support for his outgoing staff.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discuss how to manage Senate pressure regarding the appointment of a special prosecutor for the Watergate scandal, particularly focusing on Senator Charles Percy's legislative resolution. Rogers reports that he confronted Percy to ensure support for Elliot Richardson and suggests that the White House should neutralize the resolution by securing endorsements from senior senators rather than forcing a floor vote. Additionally, the two men discuss the need to find a new, experienced, and low-profile White House Counsel to replace Leonard Garment and briefly consider potential candidates like Bryce Harlow.
President Nixon and William P. Rogers met to discuss the staffing of the White House Counsel position following the resignations of H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, as well as the ongoing management of the Watergate scandal. The two evaluated potential candidates for Counsel—including George H. W. Bush, John W. Byrnes, and others—emphasizing the need for a candidate with legal expertise who could effectively manage Cabinet and Congressional relations. Furthermore, they reviewed the search for a Special Prosecutor to handle the difficult legal proceedings involving high-level administration officials, ultimately favoring individuals with strong integrity and non-partisan backgrounds.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler met to review the messaging surrounding the administration's stance on the Watergate scandal, specifically regarding the wording of press briefings and the parameters of executive privilege. The discussion focused on managing media inquiries concerning potential testimony from H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, the status of John Dean, and the appointment of a special prosecutor. Nixon emphasized the importance of maintaining that his staff should testify about their own activities while consistently affirming the President's lack of prior knowledge regarding criminal involvement.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discussed the selection of a special prosecutor to address the ongoing investigation into the Watergate scandal. The two evaluated the potential appointment of former California Governor Edmund G. “Pat” Brown, weighing his Democratic background, name recognition, and experience as a district attorney. Nixon aimed to ensure the investigation would be conducted fairly without unduly harming individuals involved, ultimately looking to influence Elliot Richardson's final selection.
President Nixon met with Alexander Haig and Ronald Ziegler to develop a strategic response to the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on the selection of a special prosecutor and the management of executive privilege. The participants discussed concerns regarding the Ervin Committee hearings, the potential release of sensitive White House documents and presidential papers, and the need to coordinate a unified legal defense. They ultimately emphasized a strategy of limiting cooperation with congressional investigations while prioritizing the judicial process to manage public perception and defend the administration.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the legal status of documents seized from John Dean and the administration's strategy for addressing the Watergate scandal. Ziegler reports on a conversation with Newsweek's Henry Truitt, noting that the press is beginning to view Dean's actions as self-serving and that the administration should avoid an abrupt counterattack. Additionally, the two touch upon the progress of the special prosecutor search and Nixon’s desire to reassure Henry Kissinger regarding political pressures from his Harvard colleagues.
President Nixon met with Vice President Agnew and his Cabinet to discuss the ongoing impact of the Watergate scandal on the administration, personnel changes, and the need to maintain governmental stability. Key topics included the appointment of a special prosecutor, the selection of Elliot Richardson, and the importance of professional coordination between the White House and Cabinet departments to ensure the administration's 1972 election mandate remained the primary focus. Nixon emphasized the necessity of improving Congressional relations and maintaining morale within the bureaucracy despite the political distractions caused by the Ervin Committee hearings.
President Nixon met with Republican congressional leaders and key aides to discuss strategies for managing the fallout from the Watergate scandal and controlling the political narrative. The group focused on coordinating a response to the upcoming Senate Ervin Committee hearings, specifically addressing the risks posed by potential testimony from grand jury witnesses, and explored launching a bipartisan "blue ribbon" commission on campaign finance reform to seize the legislative initiative. Additionally, the President reviewed pending administrative appointments, including the nomination of Elliot Richardson as Attorney General and the selection of William Colby to lead the CIA, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining consistent, public support from Republican allies.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig met to strategize on the Watergate crisis, specifically discussing the selection of a Special Prosecutor and managing the administration's legal and public relations response. They evaluated potential candidates, including Warren E. Hearnes, and considered how to neutralize political pressure from the Ervin Committee and critics. Nixon emphasized the importance of maintaining a firm stance on executive privilege and directed staff to accelerate work on campaign finance reform to shift public narrative.
President Nixon met with Henry E. Petersen to discuss the ongoing Watergate investigation, the appointment of a special prosecutor, and the administration's continued cooperation with the Justice Department. Nixon emphasized his desire for transparency and his frustration with the perceived leaks and the handling of the Daniel Ellsberg case, specifically regarding the unauthorized entry into his psychiatrist's office. The two also addressed concerns about the impact of the Ervin Committee's televised hearings on the ability of key figures like John Mitchell to receive a fair trial.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig met to discuss the urgent need to appoint a Special Prosecutor for the Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the confirmation process for Elliot Richardson and the potential risks of selecting an independent candidate. The President expressed frustration with current legal strategies and directed Haig to coordinate with J. Fred Buzhardt to develop a new "game plan" to regain political initiative. Additionally, they reviewed scheduling logistics for John Connally and Henry Kissinger, as well as preparations for an upcoming presidential address regarding Vietnam and national economic policies.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig met to strategize on the mounting pressures of the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on the necessity of appointing an independent prosecutor to restore administrative control and credibility. They discussed managing Henry Kissinger’s volatile psychological state and potential future roles, as well as the ongoing fallout from the FBI wiretap revelations. The two also coordinated upcoming public statements, legislative messaging, and internal staff realignments to stabilize the administration amidst the crisis.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discuss ongoing Watergate pressures, focusing on the management of sensitive documents, potential witnesses, and the search for a new Special Prosecutor. They review the strategy for Lt. Gen. Vernon Walters’s testimony, emphasizing the assertion of national security privilege to withhold classified intelligence documents. Additionally, Nixon justifies the use of wiretaps to address leaks within the National Security Council and strategizes with Haig on how to maintain administrative operations while navigating these unfolding scandals.
President Nixon met with Alexander Haig and J. Fred Buzhardt to strategize on the burgeoning Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on John Dean's possession of sensitive documents and the potential for a damaging investigation into domestic intelligence operations. The participants discussed controlling the narrative surrounding CIA and NSA involvement, maintaining the loyalty of White House staff, and managing the political fallout of ongoing testimony. Additionally, Haig briefed the President on his recent discussions with John Connally regarding potential White House personnel changes, the appointment of a special prosecutor, and the necessity of presenting a strong, defiant front against congressional and legal pressures.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig met to discuss the escalating pressures of the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on the resignation of G. Bradford Cook and the potential legal exposure of William J. Casey. The President emphasized his refusal to resign, dismissed impeachment concerns, and stressed the need for the White House staff to remain resilient. They also evaluated potential personnel changes, including roles for Ron Ziegler and John Scali, and monitored Elliot Richardson's progress in selecting a Special Prosecutor.
President Nixon calls Elliot L. Richardson to congratulate him on his Senate confirmation as Attorney General, commending his skill in navigating the difficult confirmation process. The conversation shifts to the Watergate investigation, specifically addressing the role of Special Prosecutor Archibald Cox and concerns regarding the continuity of ongoing work by U.S. Attorneys. Nixon emphasizes the importance of the administration’s recent public statement on the scandal and confirms logistics for Richardson’s upcoming swearing-in ceremony at the Department of Justice.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, and Ronald Ziegler met to coordinate their strategy regarding ongoing investigations into the Watergate scandal and press relations. The participants discussed the potential risks of grand jury appearances, the challenges posed by the Special Prosecutor, and the necessity of maintaining a firm, combative stance against public accusations. Additionally, they reviewed concerns regarding the security and eventual disposition of the White House taping system and legal defense strategies for key staff members.
President Nixon consults with J. Fred Buzhardt, Jr. regarding his upcoming meeting with Special Prosecutor Archibald Cox to gauge the potential for a hostile confrontation. The President expresses concern that Cox might intentionally provoke a conflict to justify a resignation, prompting the two to strategize on how to manage the interaction. They conclude by scheduling a follow-up briefing to occur after the President finishes a concurrent meeting with Congressional leadership.
President Nixon met with J. Fred Buzhardt to review the status of the ongoing Watergate investigation and discuss the aggressive, broad-ranging document and testimony requests made by Special Prosecutor Archibald Cox. Buzhardt characterized Cox’s efforts as an attempt to overstep his mandate and challenge executive privilege, leading to a strategy of forcing Cox to formally request items in writing to maintain administrative control. Nixon and Buzhardt agreed to resist these demands firmly, preparing for an inevitable future confrontation or subpoena while emphasizing the necessity of protecting the constitutional integrity of the presidency.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig discussed the ongoing Watergate investigations, specifically focusing on the scope of Special Prosecutor Archibald Cox’s charter and their insistence that investigations be strictly limited to 1972 campaign-related activities. They also reviewed concerning reports regarding Vice President Spiro Agnew’s potential legal jeopardy in Maryland, comparing his situation to previous presidential campaigns. Finally, the two men reviewed the administration's legislative agenda, agreeing to delay a planned economic policy announcement and speech until after George Shultz’s upcoming trip to Japan.