Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on Watergate
1,082 conversations · page 4 of 11 · frequently with Nixon, Ehrlichman, Ziegler, Haldeman
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the escalating Watergate crisis, focusing on the potential implications of Jeb Stuart Magruder’s expected testimony and the legal exposure of former Attorney General John Mitchell. Nixon expresses frustration over the uncertainty surrounding the involvement of his staff and stresses the necessity of facing the truth, comparing the situation to the political fallout surrounding Sherman Adams during the Eisenhower administration. Additionally, the two evaluate public opinion strategies and the importance of presidential travel to mitigate the damage caused by negative press coverage regarding the economy and the administration's legal troubles.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss diplomatic appointments, administration strategy, and foreign policy matters during a telephone call. They review potential ambassadorial assignments for Moscow, Thailand, and Pakistan, while also coordinating the President's upcoming schedule and meetings. Furthermore, they deliberate on Vietnam strategy, including the necessity of a coordinated planning process, and assess ongoing negotiations with the Soviet Union regarding the upcoming summit.
President Nixon and John D. Ehrlichman discussed the impending grand jury testimony of E. Howard Hunt, who was reportedly planning to implicate former Attorney General John Mitchell and White House associates in the Watergate affair. Ehrlichman detailed information from meetings with Charles Colson and David Shapiro regarding Hunt’s loss of faith in promised pardons and his potential to reveal details about a break-in at Hank Greenspun’s safe. The President and Ehrlichman analyzed the threat of Mitchell and Jeb Stuart Magruder cooperating with prosecutors, ultimately deciding to monitor the situation while contemplating how to handle the political fallout and potential allegations against the White House.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman discuss the internal legal maneuvering and shifting loyalties within the administration regarding the Watergate scandal. The participants analyze the credibility of Chuck Colson and the potential for various aides to cooperate with authorities to protect their own interests. They specifically deliberate on the reliability of transcripts and whether key figures like Colson and Jeb Stuart Magruder are prepared to testify truthfully or implicate others.
John D. Ehrlichman and President Nixon consulted on strategies to manage the escalating Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on how to influence or delay upcoming grand jury testimony from E. Howard Hunt. They discussed potential maneuvers to deflect attention from Charles Colson and explored the possibility of persuading John N. Mitchell to take responsibility for the campaign's actions to shield the White House. The pair agreed to review a more comprehensive set of options regarding witness management and legal strategy during a follow-up meeting the next morning.
President Nixon met with top aides John Ehrlichman, H.R. Haldeman, John Dean, and others to discuss the escalating Watergate scandal, including potential testimony from key figures like E. Howard Hunt and the legal strategies for dealing with the Senate Watergate Committee. They also touched upon foreign policy matters, specifically the situation in Vietnam and Cambodia, and debated the best approach to manage the unfolding crisis, weighing options like cooperation with investigators versus stonewalling. The conversation revealed deep concern over the potential legal and political fallout, with a focus on damage control and preserving the presidency.
On April 14, 1973, John D. Ehrlichman and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:50 am and 11:30 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-022 of the White House Tapes.
John Dean contacted John Ehrlichman to report that he had arrived and was available to talk, indicating there were no significant new developments beyond their last conversation. Dean mentioned he had been "brooding" and had some thoughts he believed Ehrlichman would want to record. Ehrlichman agreed to meet with Dean later that morning. President Nixon could be heard conferring with Charles Colson in the background.
On April 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 12:54 pm and 4:58 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 428-026 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and others met to strategize regarding the escalating legal and political fallout of the Watergate scandal. The discussion centered on the decision of Jeb Stuart Magruder to cooperate with prosecutors and the potential for his testimony to implicate other high-level officials, including John Mitchell. The participants debated how to manage the public narrative, protect the President's standing, and navigate the implications of Senate hearings and grand jury proceedings while considering legal strategies for those facing impending indictments.
On April 14, 1973, John D. Ehrlichman and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 5:15 pm and 6:08 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-030 of the White House Tapes.
John D. Ehrlichman briefs Attorney General Richard G. Kleindienst on his internal investigation into the Watergate scandal, specifically noting that Jeb Stuart Magruder has decided to cooperate with federal prosecutors. Ehrlichman reports that Magruder's new testimony implicates multiple high-level figures and contradicts previous statements, significantly altering the legal landscape of the case. They discuss the necessity of maintaining proper legal boundaries in information gathering, the potential appointment of a special counsel, and plans to coordinate with Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen to ensure ongoing investigations proceed without procedural errors.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to discuss the escalating legal and political fallout surrounding the Watergate scandal. The participants weighed the risks of ongoing investigations, particularly focusing on potential obstruction of justice charges against key figures like John Mitchell and the strategy of preempting further disclosures by "beating them to the punch." Nixon expressed urgency regarding the need to conclude the scandal quickly to prevent it from dominating his administration, contemplating potential resignations and the necessity of managing the public narrative.
President Nixon dictates a memorandum for his personal files to address the ongoing investigation into the Watergate scandal. He focuses on establishing a consistent narrative regarding the administration's involvement while emphasizing the inherently bizarre and unusual nature of the initial incident. This dictation serves as an effort to organize his perspective on the complex developments surrounding the unfolding crisis.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman discuss the aftermath of the White House correspondents' dinner and the escalating legal and political challenges posed by the Watergate investigation. Nixon expresses concern regarding testimony from Jeb Magruder and seeks advice on how to manage potential public testimony from his staff, specifically whether to concede to public, televised hearings. Ultimately, Nixon directs Haldeman to consult with William Rogers and John Connally to gauge their opinions on how the administration should handle these appearances and navigate the growing legal pressure.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss a strategy to manage the deepening Watergate scandal, focusing on the potential indictment of John Mitchell and the handling of White House staff implicated in the investigation. The President expresses a desire to move toward a more public, forthcoming stance, including potentially waiving executive privilege to allow staff to testify, in order to combat leaks and manage the narrative. They also plan to coordinate with Press Secretary Ron Ziegler and address the upcoming testimony of Jeb Magruder to protect the administration's interests while maintaining the appearance of a thorough internal inquiry.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discussed the positive reception of the President's recent remarks at the White House correspondents' dinner, specifically noting the emotional impact on attendees regarding the POWs and the substance of the speech. While Ziegler reported that the event was largely free of Watergate-related tension, Nixon expressed anxiety that the upcoming indictment of John Mitchell would escalate the scandal. The conversation concluded with Nixon emphasizing the importance of maintaining his public stance against critics despite the impending legal pressures.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to discuss the administration's public relations strategy amid the escalating Watergate scandal and concerns over the President's public approval ratings. They evaluated the political impact of recent press coverage, including articles by Jules Witcover and Haynes Johnson, and explored potential staffing changes, specifically regarding the employment of Nicholas Thimmesch. Furthermore, the two analyzed economic policy and communication, with Ehrlichman proposing the appointment of a dedicated Treasury spokesperson to better manage public perception of Phase III economic controls.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and Richard G. Kleindienst talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 1:12 pm and 2:22 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-040 of the White House Tapes.
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.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Richard G. Kleindienst talked on the telephone from 3:48 pm to 3:49 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-045 of the White House Tapes.
On April 15, 1973, Henry E. Petersen, White House operator, and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:00 pm and 5:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-047 of the White House Tapes.
Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen confers with prosecutors Earl Silbert and Charles Shaffer regarding the ongoing Watergate investigation and the credibility of key witnesses. The participants evaluate conflicting accounts from John Dean and Gordon Strachan, specifically focusing on the involvement of H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman in managing hush money and obstructing the investigation. The conversation concludes with administrative arrangements for an in-person meeting at Petersen’s home to further coordinate their legal strategy.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:00 pm and 5:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-049 of the White House Tapes.
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 status of negotiations with John Dean, who refused to enter a plea unless H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman were also prosecuted. Petersen briefed the President on Dean’s attempt to communicate via a note and his potential desire to meet with Ehrlichman. To resolve the matter, Nixon authorized a direct meeting with Dean to demand the full truth and agreed to pressure G. Gordon Liddy to cooperate by signaling that the President expected complete disclosure.
Lawrence Higby contacts H.R. Haldeman to relay a message from John Dean, who had requested to communicate with President Nixon regarding the Watergate investigation. Dean expressed his continued loyalty to the President while urging Nixon to seek counsel from Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen rather than John Ehrlichman. Additionally, Dean indicated a desire to meet directly with the President to discuss these matters despite declining a meeting with Ehrlichman.
President Nixon and Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen discuss the need to ensure full cooperation and transparency from individuals involved in the Watergate investigation, specifically G. Gordon Liddy. Nixon directs Petersen to convey that the President wants all parties to testify truthfully and rejects the notion that Liddy’s silence is due to presidential influence or protection. Petersen agrees to contact Liddy’s legal counsel immediately to emphasize that the President expects full disclosure from everyone involved.
On April 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, White House operator, and John D. Ehrlichman talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:17 pm and 9:39 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-057 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen discussed securing the cooperation of G. Gordon Liddy’s attorney, Peter Maroulis, regarding the Watergate investigation. Emphasizing a desire for full disclosure, Nixon directed Petersen to instruct Maroulis that his client must reveal everything he knows about the scandal. The President preferred that Petersen handle the communication personally to maintain professional distance, though he remained willing to meet with the attorney directly if the initial effort failed to produce the desired result.
On April 15, 1973, John D. Ehrlichman and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:16 pm and 11:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-059 of the White House Tapes.
John D. Ehrlichman calls Acting FBI Director L. Patrick Gray to warn him that John Dean is cooperating with the U.S. Attorney and disclosing information regarding sensitive materials previously entrusted to Gray. The two discuss Gray's destruction of these documents, which he claims were purely political in nature, and contemplate how to handle the inevitable scrutiny. Ehrlichman stresses the need for Gray to be prepared, as Dean's cooperation with Henry Petersen creates a significant threat to their efforts to contain the Watergate investigation.
On April 15, 1973, John D. Ehrlichman, White House operator, and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:16 pm and 11:15 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-061 of the White House Tapes.
John D. Ehrlichman calls Acting FBI Director L. Patrick Gray III to advise him on how to handle testimony regarding a sensitive envelope containing E. Howard Hunt’s materials. Ehrlichman encourages Gray to maintain that the documents were irrelevant political papers, cautioning him against providing inconsistent testimony that could expose them to broader legal risks. The discussion underscores the escalating pressure and confusion surrounding the White House's efforts to manage the fallout from the Watergate investigation.
President Nixon consulted with Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen regarding the strategic timing for the resignations of John Dean, H.R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman amid the deepening Watergate investigation. Petersen advised the President to delay these resignations to avoid interfering with ongoing prosecutorial efforts and to ensure that potential testimony could be woven into a coherent legal narrative. The two also discussed the status of various witnesses, including Jeb Stuart Magruder, and the importance of coordinating their actions to maintain control over the evolving situation.
President Nixon met with H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to strategize their response to the escalating Watergate investigation and the upcoming deposition of John Dean. The group discussed managing public perception through a potential White House-led announcement, while specifically addressing legal vulnerabilities regarding “plumbing” operations, unauthorized wiretaps, and the extent of the President's knowledge. They focused on establishing a consistent narrative that would distance the President from illegal activities, particularly by framing past surveillance as national security matters and attributing unauthorized actions to subordinates like John Mitchell.
President Nixon met with John Dean and Stephen Bull to discuss the potential resignations of Dean, H.R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman in light of ongoing investigations. Nixon sought Dean's advice on the best way to handle these resignations, whether as a leave of absence or outright resignation, and stressed the need to have these documents in hand to manage the public relations aspect of the unfolding Watergate scandal. Dean agreed to draft resignation letters for himself and the others, and they also discussed the legal complexities and the importance of truthfulness in testimony.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman met to coordinate a narrative regarding their management of the Watergate investigation. They reviewed the timeline of recent events, specifically emphasizing the President's actions to uncover facts after becoming dissatisfied with the John Dean report. The participants strategized on how to frame these developments to legal authorities and the public, focusing on the decision to involve the Attorney General and the handling of potential witnesses like Mitchell and Magruder.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman meet to strategize their public and legal response to the escalating Watergate scandal. They evaluate proposals from advisors, including Len Garment and John Ehrlichman, regarding whether the President should make a dramatic public admission or resign to protect the office of the presidency. Ultimately, they decide to solicit further written recommendations from Garment before meeting with William Rogers, maintaining a cautious approach to avoid impulsive actions that could jeopardize their legal standing.
President Nixon and Ronald Ziegler discussed how to manage the escalating Watergate scandal and the mounting pressure from press coverage, specifically reports involving the Washington Post and the Ervin Committee. They debated whether to pursue a strategy of "minimum action"—relying on the Department of Justice and limiting personnel changes—or a "bold play" involving the public removal of key staff like H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and John Dean. Ultimately, Nixon emphasized that he required full, candid information from his aides and considered relying on Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen to handle the unfolding investigations while avoiding a premature or ineffective special prosecutor.
President Nixon met with Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen to coordinate the ongoing Watergate investigation and manage the political fallout. The discussion focused on securing a plea deal for Jeb Stuart Magruder and navigating the potential resignations of John Dean, H.R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman. Nixon and Petersen strategized on how the President should publicly characterize his personal inquiry into the matter to ensure the investigation appeared to be under control without prematurely triggering resignations or jeopardizing future prosecutions.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and John D. Ehrlichman met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at 3:25 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 427-003 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman and Ronald Ziegler to navigate the growing legal and public relations pressures surrounding the Watergate investigation. The discussion focused on coordinating a response to grand jury subpoenas, managing potential testimony from White House staff, and negotiating ground rules for committee hearings. Nixon emphasized the need for a unified strategy while expressing concern over the implications of public testimony and potential leaks, ultimately deciding to delay any major public announcement to avoid jeopardizing ongoing legal proceedings.
On April 16, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at 4:04 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-068 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Dean met to discuss the drafting of a public statement intended to address the mounting Watergate-related legal pressures facing the White House. The conversation centered on the potential risks of appearing to prejudge staff members, the complexities of managing public perception regarding internal investigations, and the need to insulate the President from specific illicit schemes. They specifically addressed the optics of staff members testifying before the grand jury and considered various ways to present these actions to the public without creating a liability or a perception of scapegoating.
On April 16, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:55 pm and 8:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-077 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with William Rogers to discuss the unfolding Watergate scandal, focusing on the potential testimony of John Dean, Jeb Magruder, and John Mitchell. They reviewed the role of Henry Petersen in the investigation, the disposition of materials from E. Howard Hunt Jr.'s safe, and the implications of Dean's negotiations with prosecutors. The conversation also touched upon President Nixon's schedule and potential actions, including involving Leonard Garment.
On April 16, 1973, White House operator and President Richard M. Nixon talked on the telephone at 8:45 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-078 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen discussed ongoing developments in the Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the testimonies of key figures like Frederick LaRue, John Dean, and H.R. Haldeman. They reviewed the logistical and legal challenges of naming top aides as unindicted co-conspirators and the potential implications of Judge Sirica’s likely courtroom interrogations. Petersen updated the President on negotiations for immunity and cooperation, while Nixon expressed frustration regarding information Dean failed to disclose to him previously.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 9:18 am and 9:19 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-083 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Dean met briefly to discuss the legal strategy and potential fallout from the Watergate investigation, specifically concerning the upcoming court proceedings and statements from individuals like McCord. Nixon sought Dean's assessment of the best approach to manage the situation and its public perception, while Dean indicated that certain key developments, like McCord's statement, were still pending. They agreed to meet again later that day to further discuss the matter.
President Nixon and Leonard Garment met to strategize on managing the escalating Watergate scandal and its impact on the administration's credibility. Garment advised the President to act preemptively by issuing a brief, clear public statement that would distance him from the unfolding crisis and the individuals involved, including H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and John Dean. They also discussed the necessity of potentially suspending key staffers involved in the investigation to mitigate political damage and restore public confidence.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman met to discuss the urgent need for a strategic public relations move regarding the escalating Watergate scandal. They reviewed the growing pressure from the U.S. Attorney’s office and problematic accounts provided by John Dean, specifically regarding the destruction of evidence and the alleged involvement of Charles Colson and L. Patrick Gray. Nixon and Haldeman concluded that the administration needed to proactively disclose information by 3:00 p.m. to regain control of the narrative before further leaks or accusations from prosecutors occurred.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:20 pm and 2:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-014 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:20 pm and 2:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-017 of the White House Tapes.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:20 pm and 2:30 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-018 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman coordinated the talking points for Nixon’s upcoming meeting with Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen regarding the Watergate investigation. They established a firm policy against granting immunity to top White House officials, such as John Dean and Charles Colson, while remaining open to immunity for lower-level staffers like Gordon Strachan. Furthermore, they clarified personnel policies regarding suspensions upon indictment and resignations upon conviction, while also planning to confront Petersen about the political damage caused by ongoing leaks from the grand jury.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discussed the administration's strategic position regarding legal immunity and potential grand jury indictments for individuals involved in the Watergate scandal. They reached a consensus on adopting a firm policy that excludes immunity for key figures while allowing for flexibility in cases involving corroborating evidence. This brief exchange served to finalize the President's directives for Ehrlichman to convey during his upcoming discussions with Henry Petersen at the Department of Justice.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 2:40 pm and 2:46 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-020 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen to discuss the accelerating Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the status of John Dean, H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and Jeb Magruder. They deliberated on the potential for upcoming indictments, the legal complexities of naming unindicted co-conspirators, and the strategic risks associated with granting immunity to key figures. Nixon emphasized his desire to distance himself from the legal process while maintaining control over the political fallout, ultimately finalizing a policy that any staff member formally indicted or credibly implicated in public proceedings would be required to resign or take an indefinite leave of absence.
On April 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Lawrence M. Higby met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 3:49 pm and 3:50 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 898-022 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman coordinated with William Timmons to communicate the administration's forthcoming Watergate-related statement to Senator Sam Ervin and Senator Howard Baker. Ehrlichman directed Timmons to read specific portions of the document to both senators rather than soliciting their feedback. This action reflects the White House’s attempt to manage congressional expectations and control the narrative surrounding the President’s impending public announcement.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to draft a public statement addressing the growing Watergate scandal and the ongoing Justice Department investigation. The participants discussed how to frame the President's involvement, specifically referencing his initiation of a new inquiry on March 21, while debating the political risks of suspending staff members versus waiting for potential indictments. Ultimately, the group sought to project a narrative of progress in uncovering the truth without compromising their legal standing or appearing to cover up misconduct.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and Ronald Ziegler to formulate strategies for handling impending legal challenges and potential grand jury testimony related to the Watergate scandal. The discussion focused on managing John Dean's shifting narrative, coordinating with legal counsel, and determining whether to assert executive privilege regarding White House communications. Participants deliberated on the political implications of requesting leaves of absence and the anticipated public pressure from impending congressional hearings.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler coordinate the administration's public messaging regarding the ongoing Watergate investigation. They discuss how to address press inquiries concerning John Dean's role and the validity of Nixon's previous August 29th statement about White House staff involvement. Nixon instructs Ziegler to emphasize that the President is managing the matter directly with Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen and to avoid further commentary that could interfere with the judicial process.
On April 17, 1973, unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 4:35 pm and 4:41 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 899-005 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler met to discuss the escalating Watergate scandal and the problematic roles of key staff members, specifically John Dean, H.R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman. They evaluated the political risks of potential legal developments, such as the naming of staff as unindicted co-conspirators, while rejecting the idea of a massive, premature purge of White House personnel. The conversation concluded with the President instructing Ziegler to contact Dean to manage the administration's public narrative and address concerns regarding leaks.
President Nixon met with William P. Rogers, H.R. Haldeman, and John Ehrlichman to discuss the deepening Watergate scandal and potential legal strategies for the administration. The conversation focused on managing the fallout from emerging testimony, the necessity of forcing the resignation of compromised staff members, and the strategic importance of legal representation and public image. The President expressed significant concern regarding the loyalty of his staff and the risk of being implicated in obstruction of justice, ultimately leaning toward a policy of full disclosure and cooperation with investigators to mitigate further political damage.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discussed the strategy and messaging used during Ziegler's recent press briefing regarding the ongoing Watergate investigation. Ziegler confirmed he had contacted John Dean to outline the administration's new position and briefed the press on the President’s recent intensive investigation. They reviewed how Ziegler deflected difficult questions about the timing of the President’s inquiry and his previous, now-contradicted statements defending Dean. Nixon expressed satisfaction with Ziegler's refusal to disclose private discussions with individuals like John Mitchell or specific details of the White House staff investigation.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the escalating political crisis surrounding the Watergate scandal, specifically debating the potential resignation or termination of top aides H.R. Haldeman, John Ehrlichman, and John Dean. Nixon expresses frustration over the situation while emphasizing the need for hard evidence before taking any personnel actions, rejecting advice from Leonard Garment to act prematurely. Additionally, they coordinate strategy for managing bipartisan congressional leaders regarding Soviet Jewish emigration and the importance of maintaining foreign policy initiatives despite the domestic political turmoil.
On April 18, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 12:04 am and 12:05 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-093 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and H.R. Haldeman discuss the escalating legal risks surrounding the Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the potential testimony of John Dean and the vulnerability of White House staff. They strategize on how to manage the fallout regarding payments made to defendants, the necessity of mapping out personal and professional liabilities, and the potential pressure on John Mitchell to accept responsibility. The conversation emphasizes a need for the President and his team to prepare for future revelations while attempting to protect the institution of the presidency from further damage.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler strategized on the public narrative regarding the Watergate scandal, focusing on the President’s recent discovery of new facts and his subsequent collaboration with Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen. They discussed drafting a formal statement to address the potential involvement of H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman while emphasizing the need for full disclosure. The meeting also included logistical planning for upcoming consultations with staff members and legal counsel regarding the President's handling of the ongoing investigation.
President Nixon, H. R. Haldeman, and Ronald Ziegler met to discuss the escalating legal and political fallout from the Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on John Dean's role, his demand for immunity, and his threats to implicate the White House. The participants strategized on how to manage media narratives, maintain the President's credibility, and address the potential for damaging testimony from Dean regarding cover-up activities and blackmail demands from E. Howard Hunt. Nixon also directed Haldeman to handle his collection of White House tapes, suggesting that most should be destroyed while preserving only material deemed worth keeping for the library.
President Nixon, H.R. Haldeman, and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler met to discuss public relations strategy regarding the ongoing Watergate scandal, specifically addressing John Dean's recent communications. They debated whether the President should meet with Dean and finalized a plan for how Ziegler should respond to press inquiries about his own prior knowledge of the matter. Ultimately, they decided that Ziegler would adopt a firm stance, refusing to answer detailed questions in order to protect the rights of potential defendants and maintain a neutral posture.
President Nixon and Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen confer to discuss the ongoing status of the Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on grand jury leaks, the legal status of key figures like Jeb Stuart Magruder and John W. Dean, III, and concerns regarding the Ervin Committee's access to FBI interview files. The conversation highlights the administration's efforts to manage public comments via Ron Ziegler while maintaining judicial neutrality, as well as the urgency of securing a commitment from Magruder to prevent premature committee interference. Petersen emphasizes the need to tie down testimony before negotiating with Senator Ervin, while Nixon reaffirms his intent to handle high-profile individuals consistently while avoiding accusations of a cover-up.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to discuss the growing legal and political risks surrounding the Watergate scandal, specifically focusing on the recent actions and potential testimony of John Dean. They reviewed their past interactions with Dean, debated his motivations and potential conflict of interest regarding John Mitchell, and examined the vulnerabilities posed by previous meetings. The discussion included strategies for managing the White House response to subpoenas and legal inquiries, as well as the potential application of executive privilege to protect sensitive information.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the mounting political pressure from the Watergate scandal and the potential necessity of forcing the resignations of top aides H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. Kissinger advised that the President must proactively and "brutally" distance himself from his staff to preserve the integrity of the presidency and ensure the continued conduct of foreign policy. The two explored potential personnel replacements, such as Kenneth Rush or James T. Lynn, and considered a strategy of suspending lower-level staff to create a framework for the eventual departure of senior officials.
This recording captures an unidentified exchange taking place in the Oval Office during a period of intense scrutiny regarding the Watergate scandal. Despite the lack of transcript data, the presence of unidentified participants in the President's office during this timeframe suggests sensitive, unofficial deliberations. The brief audio fragments imply a formal or transactional nature to the meeting, though its specific purpose remains historically obscured.
President Nixon met with H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman to discuss White House staff appointments, the ongoing Watergate investigation, and the public relations strategy for addressing the scandal. The participants debated whether to maintain the President's public detachment from the investigation or to proactively frame the administration as victims of subordinates who misled them. Nixon emphasized his desire to insulate the presidency from the unfolding legal crises, while Haldeman and Ehrlichman urged him to project confidence and consider taking a short break from the office to regain his perspective.
President Nixon met with Assistant Attorney General Henry E. Petersen to discuss the ongoing Watergate investigation and the challenge of managing leaks from the U.S. Attorney's office. The conversation focused on the credibility of key figures like John Dean, Jeb Stuart Magruder, and Gordon C. Strachan, as well as the legal difficulties of pursuing conspiracy charges against H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. Nixon emphasized that any potential immunity deals or further investigative steps must be grounded in corroborated testimony rather than conflicting accounts, while reinforcing his assertion that the White House had cooperated fully with the investigation.
On April 19, 1973, Stephen B. Bull and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 11:08 am and 12:48 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 902-012 of the White House Tapes.
Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler and White House Counsel John Dean coordinate their messaging regarding the unfolding Watergate scandal. Ziegler informs Dean of his intent to adhere to a consistent public posture, emphasizing that the administration's goal is to uncover the truth and cooperate with the grand jury rather than seeking a scapegoat. The pair discusses the necessity of maintaining this unified narrative during upcoming press briefings.
President Nixon and Ron Ziegler discussed John Dean's recent public statement and a New York Times article suggesting Dean might implicate others in the Watergate scandal. They strategized on how Ziegler should respond to press inquiries, agreeing to emphasize the administration's commitment to finding the truth rather than scapegoats and to fully cooperate with the grand jury. Nixon authorized Ziegler to state that no one would be made a scapegoat, a message Ziegler relayed to Dean. The conversation also briefly touched on a meeting with Jewish leaders regarding Soviet emigration.
On April 19, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:48 pm and 1:03 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 902-007 of the White House Tapes.
On April 19, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:48 pm and 1:03 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 902-008 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman met to discuss legal strategies for defending White House staff members implicated in the developing Watergate scandal. They analyzed the potential for immunity for John Dean, the legal risks regarding campaign funds, and the possibility of separating the legal defense of presidential aides from that of other political figures. The discussion highlighted their concern over how these proceedings might impact the administration's public image and the necessity of managing internal information to protect the President.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler coordinate the administration's public response regarding the President’s ongoing meetings with Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen. They specifically discuss how to address media inquiries concerning Watergate investigations and clarify that the President does not receive reports from the grand jury. Nixon instructs Ziegler to emphasize that while he receives updates on general investigative progress from Petersen, he is not privy to the contents or internal proceedings of the grand jury.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler coordinate the administration's public messaging regarding the Watergate investigation. Nixon instructs Ziegler to emphasize that the President does not receive reports from the Grand Jury to combat rumors of scapegoating and leaks. He directs Ziegler to contact Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen to confirm this official stance.
President Nixon instructs Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler to publicly emphasize that he has explicitly directed Assistant Attorney General Henry Petersen to withhold all grand jury proceedings from him. Nixon expresses concern that leaks, particularly those involving columnist Jack Anderson, could taint the investigation and wants to distance himself from the inner workings of the grand jury. The President clarifies that while he continues to receive general investigatory reports, he is consciously avoiding specific grand jury information to maintain procedural integrity.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the need to maintain a clear firewall between the White House and ongoing Grand Jury proceedings to avoid potential legal contamination. Nixon emphasizes that he explicitly instructed officials not to disclose any Grand Jury findings to him to preserve the integrity of both the official investigation and his own internal review. The discussion underscores the administration's strategic effort to distance the President from sensitive information during the escalating Watergate investigation.
President Nixon and John Ehrlichman discuss the status of internal White House investigations into the Watergate scandal. The conversation focuses on whether members of the staff had provided sworn statements regarding their lack of involvement, specifically noting that John Dean had not signed such a statement. They conclude that the effort to secure these affidavits was ultimately abandoned, leaving the administration without formal documentation from all staff members.
On April 19, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:38 pm and 5:03 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 038-116 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Richard A. Moore met to discuss the escalating Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the roles of John Dean and John Mitchell. They examined the potential legal liabilities arising from the cover-up, the solicitation of hush money for E. Howard Hunt, and the risk that Dean might turn against the administration to secure immunity. Nixon expressed frustration over the perceived ineptitude of his subordinates and the potential for a damaging narrative regarding obstruction of justice, ultimately emphasizing the need to keep the administration's involvement shielded from the ongoing investigations.
President Nixon met with John Ehrlichman to discuss the ongoing fallout from the Watergate investigation, specifically focusing on the legal exposure of White House staff members and potential strategies for handling prosecutors. They evaluated the political implications of keeping or removing H.R. Haldeman from his post and analyzed the testimony of John Dean. The discussion also addressed reports regarding the secret removal of political files from the White House, with Ehrlichman advising the President to maintain distance from the daily influx of rumors to avoid distraction.
On April 19, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and John D. Ehrlichman met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building from 5:58 pm to 5:59 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 429-019 of the White House Tapes.
John Ehrlichman updates President Nixon regarding an ongoing investigation into a mysterious removal of eight boxes of materials from a committee office the day after the Watergate break-in. Ehrlichman reports that Charles Colson, H.R. Haldeman, and others lack knowledge of the event, though they suspect it involved someone with high-level access like Robert C. Odle or Frederick C. LaRue. The President expresses concern over the potential link to Watergate and emphasizes the urgent need to identify the individual who reportedly moved the materials to a private apartment.
President Nixon met with attorneys John J. Wilson and Frank H. Strickler to discuss the evolving Watergate scandal and its potential legal impact on H.R. Haldeman and John D. Ehrlichman. The participants reviewed the status of federal investigations, the handling of secret funds, and the potential for upcoming indictments against White House staff. They also deliberated on the political implications of keeping or removing Haldeman and Ehrlichman from their positions, comparing the situation to historical precedents regarding presidential staff resignations.
President Nixon met with his attorneys, John J. Wilson and Frank H. Strickler, to receive a legal briefing on the ongoing Watergate investigations involving H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman. The attorneys detailed their recent discussions with prosecutors Seymour Glanzer and Earl J. Silbert, expressing concern over the prosecutors' aggressive tactics and the potential for indictments despite a perceived lack of clear criminal evidence. The President and his counsel discussed the potential political fallout of suspending or forcing the resignations of his top aides, ultimately deciding to stand firm and await further developments before taking drastic action.