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Personal Notes - Oct. 73 - Aug. 74 [3]
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446394446
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Personal Notes - Oct. 73 - Aug. 74 [3]
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George H. W. Bush Papers
Republican National Committee Files
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection: Donated Historical Materials
Collection/Office of Origin: Bush, George H.W., Collection
Series:
Personal Papers
Subseries:
Republican National Committee
OA/ID Number:
25864
Folder ID Number:
25864-010
Folder Title:
Personal Notes - Oct. 73 - Aug. 74 [3]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
35
1
5
5
Hemands Courtrights
Beverly Wilshire Hotel
CRestview 5-4282
8-7
AM
7 PCT
1) called dietato Lias litter
2) called Haig
CCD with See Stator -
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3) 3 9 EATIN 6 the coast
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Humands Courtrights
Beverly Wilshire Hotel
CRestview 5-4282
total servery
plan might blow up
dis ussed show
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Dear Mr. President,
9
It is my considered
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Beverly Wilshire Hotel
judgement that you should
Hernands Courtrights
CRestview 5-4282
now resign.
If who pozyible projn to this
last to separate
lowely
I expect, in your party
embatthed position, this will
seem to you tike as anact
of disloyalty from one
Beverly Wilshire Hotel
you have supported and
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Hernands Courtright's
CRestview 5-4282
welped in so many ways.
My own view is that
I would now M serve
a presidents, whose massive
accouphishmits, will always
respect and whose family
I love, if I did not
Beverly Wilshire Hotel
give you my judgement.
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Armands Courtrights
CRestview 5-4282
United this monent
resignation has been for
not no answer at all, but
giving the impacts and A
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county and kent for
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this view is held by most Republican
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Hernands Courtright's
Beverly Wilshire Hotel
CRestview 5-4282
leaders overops with the country.
Most Sincerely migh
This letter is wede A more
gratitude I will always have do leave for
difficult by because & the
Good become, If you
0 you office, history in my judgement will
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P ropula
accouplishints as with
record your
Armands Courtrights
Beverly Wilshire Hotel
CRestview 5-4282
a lasting respect.
smissading, sincerely.
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will not be released
Hernands Courtrights
Beverly Wilshire Hotel
CRestview 5-4282
AI- -
This is a personal
letter - I have
no plans to release
it
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Humands Courtrights
Beverly Wilshire Hotel
CRestview 5-4282
9 EATIM
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told two of this
any letter him to
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Humands Courtrights
Beverly Wilshire Hotel
CRestview 5-4282
wratt
202- / 965-2871
965-5120
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August 7, 1974 - Wednesday - we arrived late Tuesday night in California.
The television show is reaching its final stages. We probably have $200,000
invested in it. Literally hundreds of volunteers up and down the coast work-
ing on it. Knowing what I did from Haig and Burch I had to kind of go through
the motions. At night before going to sleep I made the determination that I
should in fairness and in honesty send the President a letter suggesting that
he resign. I wrote him a very short letter and dictated it to Tom Lias. Jane
typed it and Tom took it down to the White House and gave it to Gen. Haig.
I then called Haig in order to tell him what I had done. I did the same thing
with him the day before on our press release, not wanting to complicate the
President's problem - wanting to be on record to give the Party some leadership
and also to make sure the President knew my views.
Muriel told me that Haig was in a meeting with Kissinger and one other
but he came on the phone. I told him that I was sending the letter down by
Lias. He assured me that matters were moving forward and that indeed the
schedule has now been arrived at and that Burch would call me later. I sat
around and made a few other calls and then called Burch. He apparently had
been told to call me several hours later. He told me that the scenario would
unfold - that Goldwater, Scott and Rhodes would be invited to the White House
by the President to give their assessment which they would do - he and Haig
were having lunch with Goldwater. Rumors were rampant. I went over to the
studio and read my part - did our thing. Rumors kept filtering in even to that
meeting. The Providence paper, the Phoenix paper stating the President was
going to resign that day. I clued Mary Louise Smith in and then Pete SO we
could make certain arrangements, plans. We agreed that Mary Louise would
discreetly inquire as to how we go about cancelling. By noon rehearsal was
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over and it was apparent to me that the show was a good one but that it of
course would have to be scrubbed. I guess everybody there knew what was
going on, but they never mentioned it. I went to a luncheon given by
Bob Anderson. Talked again to Burch. He told me that it was unreal down
there. He saw the President on the arm of Ziegler. He said it looked like
a 100 year-old man on the arm of his male nurse. People in the White House
are in a state of shock but obviously the word is filtering through there. I
talked to him about cancelling the show - that I knew it would have to be
cancelled. We decided that we would cancel it late Wednesday night or early
Thursday morning. The Vice President was still publicly maintaining that he
was coming though Rhodes, after I talked to him, sent me a telegram that he
and Wyatt would not come and that he advised cancelling the show because
of events.
Right after the luncheon with the Los Angeles men, at which I leveled
pretty much on the views, though held back any comments on timing predictions,
I went back to the hotel, talked to the White House several more times. I
had a nice supportive phone call from Meade Alcorn. At a lovely dinner given
by Mary Louise Smith I told the people that worked hardest on the show that
we were going to abort the show, that Mary Louise and I were going back to
Washington, that events were moving very fast there. I stopped short of
saying that the President would resign Thursday night. I didn't tell them
that by six o'clock tomorrow evening California time you should have some
indication as to why I am doing what I am doing -- 9:00 eastern time being
the time the President was supposed to request television time. I heard
on one of the television programs (the Merv Field California poll) the announcer
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saying that the people wanted vengeance, that there was no compassion. I
watched the film - his trips to Moscow, signing the 18 year old vote,
these triumphant memories of this President's accomplishments are almost
overwhelming. And yet I simply keep coming back to this awful incident
of the big lie on the tape. My thoughts are of his family, of the enormity
of the shame, but gloating of those who early wanted him out, of the probable
damage to some that stood with him, based on his word, to the almost certainty
that the Party's fortune would improve dramatically, to my clear belief that
the country would be much better off with him out of office, that confidence
could be restored, still wondering how Jerry Ford would handle it all,
what I should say to him knowing for sure that he should have his own person
in this job, that as you move into '75 and '76 clearly it needs another
chairman, more of a convention-oriented type chairman, wondering whether
Ford would want me to stay in the Administration, but really not caring too
much. Of course the Vice Presidential thing if worked out would be sensa-
tional, but I don't honestly believe there is much of a chance for that.
I am not close to Laird and he is reported to have real great influence.
Conable, Steiger, roping in Martha Griffiths, Jerry Pettis - all tell me
what they want to do - working on this, but I don't believe they have the
clout with Jerry. I am not sure how the Senators would feel although I
guess there would be some support there.
I have thought about foreign affairs, but Kissinger looms as a problem
to me. Ford will have to have Kissinger remain. Henry and I have had a run-in
or two, as I have tried to defend the President. To see that the President
gets credit. But in sum it doesn't really seem to matter. The overwhelming
nature of the events in Washington to which I am now flying back to witness
just can't be described.
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Dail
AB HERMANN
August 6, 1974
TO:
Chairman Bush - Tom Lias
FROM:
Joan Davenport
RE:
Phone Call from George Wilson
RNC Member for Tennessee
615/882-0121
The above called Mr. Hermann to state he
thinks strong consideration should be given to a
call meeting of the Committee. He believes they
should take some positive action, pro or con,
relative to their position.
He is primarily concerned with the political
implications in his own state. They have a Guberna-
torial race coming up and some "iffy" Congressional
races.
He called to pass this suggestion to Mr. Hermann
feeling he could then bring it to the Chairman's atten-
tion. He also stated, after receiving the telegram
last evening, he spent a sleepless, uneasy night.
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Desh
AB HERMANN
August 6, 1974
TO Chairman Bush - Tom Lias
FROM: Joan Davenport
RE: Phone Call From Mrs. Jean Sullivan
RNC Member for Alabama
205/875-2085
205/874-9069
The above called Mr. Hermann and in view
of his absence, she talked to me.
She conveyed her feelings concerning the
possibility of the Chairman calling a meeting of
the National Committee. SHe believes it would be
a good idea to have one called for the latter part
of next week. Bob Shaw called her and she so stated
this to him also. She further stated, as much as
it breaks her heart to do so, "the branch should
be removed in order to save the tree."
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All and ( concerned about are disneyed the facto and
the
T
As a result of the President's admission that he withheld certain
facts, I would be less than honest if I did not express my deep feelings
for those who supported the President on the basis of the facts they
knew and which they believed to be true. This includes Party
officials and Republicans generally all across the country who defended
the President get
I have steadily maintained that the system can cope with whatever
shocks it must absorb. Resignation is something tial that the President
an
alone must decide. If it is to be impeachment, I urge all in an official
role to carry this process out in the most judicious and expeditious
manner possible to spare the nation more trauma. Political expediency
should not be one OF the criteria.
with
WHIT 13
I'm confident the President will do what is right - what is
-
best for the country.
Long after Watergate, It will be remembered that the American
system, worked preserving its proven stability.
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JK
LA
No
a) Don't be ave wove Indian cructing the
wagon treins - Knowny what Hay told
me all the CBS news count etc secus so wiend
Problems of show
6 EAT is 3 out have -
but ruly prive time will he Elled
with analysis - we will he autation
hy write
Dilemra get our's own "housty morality
etc. on line" plus inpressent party
V3. maling southy happen
+
makimum protection for the human being,
intorrly the he is, who's the privident
The evonuts of Tt- -
CBS- - Dole prediction on resignation
"Yes" x) southing on air
b) southing by
Georg Hinner plea for level headers
no emotion etc
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Dear Burch
6-3 =
5) Dratings
8:30 -
of By tomorrow as of PCT everyone
won't about
i) Tartlessness
II) move Producture
12
3 today
Pun ask to with
a) Rhodes
b) Griate
c) Scott
at Pres' request
Banch-
9 AM- are fas TV
Next act tomorrow -
a) 5 30 Home leadership
b) 600 Friends - Sorry M
JoeW
c) 900 00 Townrow speech
d) 10 AM- departs
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Barch (cont) 330
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Ash -
Doesn't looth the serve
100 yrirld wen puopelled
by werle neruse
2)
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3)
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3)
GB ask him to
call Hartmen see of VP cavelling
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August 8, 1974 - I flew all night - got back to Washington and missed
a breakfast scheduled with Dean Burch. I did call from the house the Vice
President's office and told Mildred that I would like to see the Vice Presi-
dent though I would understand if he couldn't do it. They called back -
set the appointment for 12:30 - I came to the office, took a lot of calls,
confirmed with Burch that the schedule was to go ahead - meeting with the
congressional leaders in the afternoon -- the meeting with friends after was
cancelled but there would be a going away at 9:30 the next morning with the
Vice President to be sworn in at 12:00 - the family to leave with the Presi-
dent. is The day was unreal. A pall was over the White House. I met with the
Vice President. We discussed Dan Rostenkowski's offer to be helpful in lining
up votes for the Vice President to grant immunity. I talked about the White
House staff and my concerns about it. I particularly mentioned the press sec-
tion, and that Ziegler had to go. I told the Vice President that I had dealt
with this situation for a year and a half and would like to have an input
based on experience with whomever was going to sort that all out. He indicated
that he had seen the President, the President had told him that of the whole
Cabinet in his view Kissinger should stay and in the White House Haig should
stay.
I then went on to the National Security Council. I told him that in my
judgment he should revert to something between what it used to be when Rogers
was Secretary of State and what it is now when Kissinger totally dominates it.
I said that the President must put an imprint of his own on foreign policy,
that there must be a mediator in the White House as the head of NSC who would
mediate between the Secretary of State and the Defense Department, and represent
solely the President or present solely to the President the views of these two
departments. But Kissinger while brilliant must not be permitted to run away
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with things and that the foreign policy though it might be identical in
thrust should be a forward foreign policy. The Vice President made little
comment on this but seemed to have some appreciation of what I was talking
about. I then went to the National Committee, told him that I should resign
from there, that again the Vice President should be looking forward to '76
very soon, that there would be a honeymoon period during which the National
Committee would do anything he wanted, that he should get his own man in there
and get him in right away. He indicated that he wanted me to stay for awhile,
that he had total confidence in me, that he didn't want it to look like he
didn't have confidence in me, nor did he want it to look like I didn't have
confidence in him, by doing anything percipitous. But of course I knew what he
wanted short term, but that I was not suited for the job, there was some
manuevering going on by other candidates, that clearly the country ought not
to go through a switch in our party in '76.' I am convinced it should be Ford
and he should get total control of the committee. The committee is not
terribly important at all times but in election years it is. I also told him
I was ill-suited to do this nuts and bolts job that is necessary for conventions
and seminars. There was no real response from Ford on all of this. He did
ask me about whether I was going to be in town this weekend. I think it was
when we talked about the selection of the staff people. During the visit his
son called in from way out in Utah. It was really amazing to hear the father
talking to the son - down to earth. The son has heard part of what was happening --
and Jerry told him matter of factly that the next day at noon he would be sworn
in and about how the kid was going to get there. There was a natural quality
about it all. Bob Hartman and Jack Marsh were at the meeting. Hartman looked
nervous. They were talking about a picture that he had to get out. Call from
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Art Fletcher. Mentioned that Kissinger was coming at 3:00. It all seemed
tremendously overwhelming.
I went over and saw Rose Woods. There was a pall over the entire White
House. I debated about seeing her but I felt it was a kind thing to do. I
felt she would probably be sore about my resignation request letter and she
was strained at first. Eddie Cox was in there the whole time. Rose had
some tears. I told her you'll probably differ with me but I am convinced
that this is much the best thing for the President as well as the country.
She said, "Yes, I do differ with you. She was sore with Griffin and Rhodes
and others who have been close friends with the President. She was apparently
blind to the enormity of what he had done. Faithful to the end. I pointed
out that I remember a conversation she and I had had over a year ago when we
talked about those around the President. She warmed to that subject and was
rather bitter about Haldeman and having the taping system in there in the first
place, going to the Secret Service to do it instead of the GAO who would
normally do it. Again there was great sadness there. Phones were ringing on
her secretary's desk offering support to the President, urging him not to
resign. She said the prisoners had called to see what they could do and she
was somewhat bitter, suggesting they should have done it six months earlier.
I am glad I went by and I expect maybe she did appreciate it, but it was
strained and again unreal.
I saw big Rog Morton. He I am sure felt exactly as I did. I had luncheon
in the mess. There was a kind of hush and whispers throughout the building.
It was like someone had die around there. I did not see Al Haig. I called
Jimmy Stewart, Linkletter, Paul Keyes, thanked them for helping on the show.
They all said they would help in the future. They felt the country was going
to survive and the two-party system was. There was a certain optimism around the
country once they realized what was happening I think.
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August 9, 1974 - There is no way to really describe the emotion of
the day. Bar and I went down and had breakfast at the White House. Dean and
Pat Burch and the Buchanans were there in the Conference Mess. There was
an aura of sadness, like somebody die Grief. Saw Tricia and Eddie
Cox in the Rose Garden - talked to them on the way into the ceremony.
President Nixon looked just awful. He used glasses - the first time I
ever saw them. Close to breaking down - understandably. Everyone in the
room in tears. The speech was vintage Nixon - a kick or two at the
press - enormous strains. One couldn't help but look at the family and
the whole thing and think of his accomplishments and then think of the
shame and wonder what kind of a man is this really. No morality - kicking
his friends in those tapes - all of them. Gratuitous abuse. Caring for
no one and yet doing so much. When he used the word 'plumbers' meaning
it 'laboring with his hands' the connotation was a shock on me. I remember
Lt. Col. Brennan who has been with him SO long - Marine - standing proudly
but with tears running down his face. Rabbi Korff, a brand new friend
on the scene who told Kendall he wanted to start a Support for Ford
Committee. Thrilled with the limelight. Coming in and standing around
and looking for special attention, ending up sitting next to the Cabinet.
People who labored next to Nixon's side forever are not invited. It's
weird. The Nixon speech was masterful. In spite of his inability to
totally resist a dig at the press, that argument about hating - only if
you hate do you join the haters. We walked through the bottom lobby to
go out. After the Ford swearing-in many of the pictures were changed with
a great emphasis on the new President. We went over and hung around waiting
for the swearing in of Ford.
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And then the whole mood changed. It was quiet, respectful, sorrowful
in one sense, but upbeat. The music and the band seemed cheerier, the
talking and babbling of voices after Ford's fantastic speech, crowds of
friends, indeed a new spirit, a new lift. I walked through the line and
the President was warm and friendly, kissing the wives, telling Bar he
appreciated my job, and on and on. It was much more relaxed. There
of course were a lot of people that didn't know what they were going to
do. There was great turmoil in that sense.
I went back to the National Committee and addressed them. I tried to
identify with the feelings I am sure they all felt - of betrayal and
distrust and yet pride. I told them we had been through the toughest
year and a half in history and yet I now felt we were coming on an op-
timistic period. I told them that the President asked me to stay on. All
in all it was a pretty good meeting although I. felt drained emotionally
and physically tired.
Saturday the 10th I attended the first Ford Cabinet Meeting. Notes
kept on that. Mood calm. TerHorst had already called the day before to
ask about the White House report - I told him what he could expect, he
told me the Clawson job would be eliminated, that Clawson was going to be
leaving, that the whole gut-fighting attack group would be eliminated. I
told him this was a great decision and I was relieved. I had a long visit
with Haig after the press had left following the swearing in during which
Kissinger walked into the room. Bar and Pat Haig were talking and Haig and
I were fielding various things. I told Haig my concerns about the NSC,
how it had to be a more independent posture eventually. I recognized
Kissinger's enormous ego problem but that the system needed to be somewhere
between where the NSC used to be when he was there and ambassadors were
walking in the side door and where it is now, simply a subsidiary to the
-3-
Secretary of State. It is essential that the President get objective
recommen ations, recognizing Defense's needs and recognizing State's needs.
I told Ford a day or two before that he needed to get his own imprint
clearly on foreign policy but that he had to have Kissinger stay. I noticed
on the evening news of the 10th much more news about Kissinger and what
he was going and saying in terms of what the ambassadors said. Haig
told me that Kissinger had wanted to leave a time or two but it's my
view that Ford ought to get positioned for the inevitable day when Kissinger
does leave. I would like to see Haig go into the NSC job - have it
built up, give it visibility and then perhaps he can move into the
Secretary of State position, even though a military man.
The rest of the day was swirling around on the Vice Presidential
speculation. We got our telegrams out asking for input from the National
Committee. Clements talking to Jack Marsh on my behalf. Jerry Pettis
working on it, a lot of speculation. Timmons called to say the President
wanted to talk to me about this matter at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. Lunch
with Dick Moore. Tennis with Dick Williams. Quiet evening. Suspense
mounting again. Deep down inside I think maybe it should work this
time. I have that inner feeling that it will finally abort. I sure hope
not. Another defeat in this line is going tobe tough but then again it
is awful egotistical to think I should be selected.
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August 12, 1974 - Meeting with the President, Sunday, August 11. My
meeting was one of eight or ten with Republican leaders - all alone -
introduced me to a new photographer, a Pulitzer Prize-winning Time man.
Tried different angles. We stood over near the window taking a few shots,
then the man took some shots of the President and me together sitting in the
familiar chairs. "Let's be informal," said the President. Then he said,
"I would like to get your views on the Vice President."
I told him, "I am in a peculiar position because I know that my name
has been considered." He confirmed that it had. "I am getting strong
recommendations on it." And I said well if it would be agreeable with him
and it didn't seem to be putting on the hard-sell I might give him my
credentials as well as shortcomings and then try to be somewhat objective.
He said he wanted me to do that. He said, "I am asking you to do that.'
So I went through the resume - Phi Beta Kappa economics, Yale, East
and West, successful in business, Ways and Means, finances in order, knowing
the business community, press relations, politics, UN. We talked about all
of these and I told him I thought he had to get his own mark on foreign policy,
and I thought that there would be times when it would be good to have his
total man - namely his Vice President going on these foreign trips and I
felt I could do that well etc. He nodded and seemed receptive. That, took
about 14 minutes of the 30 minutes including the picture-taking and stuff.
He then asked me some other ideas. And he asked specifically about
individuals. He asked about Ed Brook for example and a woman. I said there
ought to be a black in the Cabinet, I mentioned Fletcher. He told me he
thought Fletcher should definitely be involved. I suggested that a Cabinet
slot would be good provided you could find back-up for him. On the woman I
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gave a big pitch to Mary Louise Smith. I told him I didn't think he should
move with either a woman Vice President or a Black at this particular juncture
in history. I talked about Rockefeller. I told him that I had a strong
regard for Rockefeller, that I worried about the divisions in Party from
either right or left. I said Goldwater would certainly be acceptable but
again he had to wrry about the other part of the Party. I kept coming down
on the middle ground, and in the back of my mind was 'it sounds like you're
building yourself up , making your own case all the time.' I emphasized the
press, I said that I thought whoever it was had to be totally supportive,
that would not have any ideological hang-ups and be unable to support the
President on whatever his policy was - domestic or foreign. I told him
he needed to get his imprint on the Presidency, that the country did not
need a challenge to him in '76, that he needn't say what he was going to
do in '76 but that he had to, through his appointments and everything,
make clear that it was his party, his move, his administration and his nomi-
nation. He asked me how the Democrats would feel. I clicked off some of the
Democrats on my deal - I told him about Martha Griffiths, Dingell, told him
about Bob Strauss' call, Gale McGee, and said that I felt they probably would
be agreeable. And that I had been confirmed unanimously by the Senate. I
mentioned Bob Ray - said if you want to get outside I'd recommend a good hard
look at him or Dan Evans. He didn't seem to show too much interest in that.
He asked about Rog Morton. I said excellent if his health is OK. He raised
the name of Laird. I said clearly Laird would be your man, Laird is experienced,
Laird can clearly do it. I told him I did not feel close to Laird personally
but I would have to say that he would fit that description.
Bill Clements had told me about Jack Marsh' views on healing and bringing
things together and I did feel that that should be emphasized. I pointed
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that out in connection with whatever you do, you should get somebody who
can heal and bring people together. Certainly there will be a need for
partisanship but it shouldn't be shrill. I told him about my visit with
Nixon - that I am not good at carving up Kennedy and Watergate. I told him
how I had to speak out against Watergate. He was totally relaxed, had a
yellow pad, we both sat facing each other on the little couches. There was
a warm and friendly feeling - as I walked out I said, "Mr. President, it's a
funny position I guess I was in, making this pitch and I hope it wasn't too
strong.' He said, "Not at all. I asked for it." I told him, "No matter who
you pick you will have my total support.' I looked him right in the eye when
I said it and I wanted him to know how true it is. He said, "George, I don't
have any doubt about that at all." He put his arm warmly around me and I
felt, "My God, what a mammoth difference between the man I served and worked
for with I hope total dedication and this wonderfully warm, uncomplicated,
decent human being. If he gets a break on some of these major issues he
will indeed be a great President.'
I then went over and talked to Bill Scranton about transition, and
gave him my strong views on the National Security Council - that it should
be somewhere in between the step-child of the State Department and where it
used to be when the State Department was its captive. I felt that the existing
set-up was wrong. I told him the Kissinger relationship was such that it had
to be handled with great delicacy. Oh - back to the other - he asked me
about Brock. I told him I didn't feel that Brock had the strength of character
and the strength of leadership necessary. I put in a strong word for Howard
Baker. I told him Baker was head and shoulders above Brock. That only he
could sort out the Watergate Committee problem but that Baker was clearly
qualified to do the job.
Photo Copy Preservation
-4-
I mentioned Kit Bond. Ford seemed to agree that Bond was too young. I
said, "Maybe there's somebody that's not known that would be good." And
he said, "That's true. I wasn't knownat all." I am wondering if in all of
this he is thinking of somebody totally unknown who could move in and do
this job.
I left feeling somewhat better about my chances but with no degree
of certainty or moving up to the head of the list. Ford is so warm and
friendly and SO clearly does not want to abuse or offend people that he could
well have just been building me up. I indicated that I wanted to get out
of this crazy job.
I went in to talk to Al Haig and told Haig I wanted to get a big favor
from him. I don't know what's going to happen on the Vice Presidential
thing, I said, but I do want your help if you ever do get a chance to say
I ought to get out of this party job. The more I think of it, the more
ill-suited I am for it. For the first time I have the feeling that it might
work about the Vice Presidency.
Addenda - the President during the conversation about foreign policy
asked how I got along with Henry Kissinger. I told him "pretty well" except
I found that I had a couple of run-ins with him. I recited the incident
about China and how I took exception because I was standing up for the Presi-
dent. I felt that others should stand up for him and be sure he got credit
if he was taking a lot of blame. I told him Kissinger hadn't liked this.
I told him after the China vote Kissinger and I had a little bit of a run-in
but that I knew we had done a good job and that everyone else knew it, but
with Kissinger being in China hadn't helped. I told him right after that
though we got along very warmly. I mentioned shortcomings above. I told him
my shortcomings were having lost the elections and frankly being a Republican
National Chairman. He emphasized, "George, you and I are totally compatible
on issues and I know I could work very, very well with you in every way."
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Secret don't trancilee
File keep. conversations actual
Notio = 8-20-94
phone calls =
1)
Main
HAIG, PREZ, ETC.
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REPUBLICAN NATIONAL COMMITTEE
310 FIRST STREET, S. E., WASHINGTON, D. C. 20003
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From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
Richard
Moose called
Photo Copy Preservation
;
GE
10 52
From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
Rochy
in most A internet
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Did Daved tell you
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Photo Copy Preservation
AE
10 35
From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
Bweh
very nice 5/5
call-
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really pulling for
you taluel to him 1½
use hours I on my deal- -
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what happens -
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GE
1020 and
From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
mr. President
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Photo Copy Preservation
AE
940
From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
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1) Both call
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OE
sunday
From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
A1 HAIL
1) Dont pay attration
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2) told PM. chuld
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Photo Copy Preservation
From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
Insurition tim
miace
started on me
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knows from Kelly
mutti problem-
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From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
The day
8-20
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Please Call
202-628-4200
Ext 301
Dick Roseubann
Tohn Hale
(over) 177-2461-032A
confidence -
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Tom
told your high very V
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Twenty
all
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Giwator
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to girts of - who
he upouted
2) pus off to bad
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3) no question
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From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
Happy
207-276-5158
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George Bush Presidential Library
Transfer Sheet
COLLECTION:
ACCESSION NUMBER:
George Bush Personal Papers
1993.0004
FOIA/SYSTEMATIC
PROCESSING CASE
Transferred During Accessioning
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Transferred During Processing
The following material was transferred to:
Audiovisual Collection
Book Collection
Museum Collection
Other
Other (Specify):
Preservation - Dictabelt File
DESCRIPTION:
One (1) IBM 3" magnetic tape [recording of GB?, ca. 1973-1974]
When transferring
Donor:
material to the
museum
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collection,
complete the
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Republican National Committee
1
Folder Title:
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Personal Notes October 1973 - August 1974 [3]
25864
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Print Record
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August 22, 1974
8-22-74
Bill Archu
/ Leon Tamoushi- called
Bill such
z frial with report on
GBou Monday- - all ONT
GB, Reagan, Kumy, Rodey clean
3
4 he asked to salls
sotold
5. completely chared
4. W.Have Leon for C yours 5
6. "somone down there
>) Newswech never contrated
toyes to get you"
Javorobi-
8) Go. how maybe long in sural known? worths
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L. Jananter
9) "DiGicilt to get
fair tral -augulure
on land"
10) no tiral desision
11) Rody hut in Texas
12). one resigned county chamen
13) activs troops
m Texas"
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August 22, 1974 - Meeting 4:00 p.m. - oval office - President Ford,
Bill Brock, Bob Michel, Dean Burch, Bob Hartman and myself.
The President seemed relaxed. He had had a long, arduous schedule -
unbelievable in length, including a two-hour picture-taking session with
members of congress for campaign purposes. He said, "I'm glad to be here
and I fully understand." The President explained that Dean Burch had Cabinet
status, would be in charge of politics. He wasn't going to announce it as a
political counselor but that indeed was what he was and that he had great
confidence in him. Later he told me that he liked Burch and felt he was
ideally suited for what he was going to do. We talked about the cufflinks souve-
nirs that were left over from the Vice Presidency. It seemed odd for the
President of the United States to be dealing with such trivia. Bob Hartman
handed him a memo on it. The other side is that it showed that he was think-
ing of Party - wanting to help, remembering how small things like that counted
to political people.
We discussed the scheduling. He would be willing to do fundraisers. But
he decided he would do no political trips until the later part of October -
Burch and Hartman would get together and work backwards from the election in
accordance with the Burch memo. We discussed Rocky's travel. It was my
thought that Rocky should do very little politics if any until he was confirmed.
Brock disagreed, wanting him to come to Tennessee in September but I think
his disagreement was mainly related to that particular event. The President
indicated that there are two times when Rockefeller could work - now until the
time he comes back and then from adjournment until the election. It was agreed
that Rocky's schedule would be coordinated with the President's to avoid
duplication. Burch wisely suggested that the President set the schedule up
and not have events seeking him - having us find the best events for him.
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The President made a side remark to the congressmen about his first
White House dinner. He said the dinner was fine but afterward there was
an unlikely collection of members of congress. Betty Ford had turned the
matter over to Peggy Stanton who on her own had made up the list including
people like Seiberling, Brown, Reid, David Bowen and others. Some of the
Democrats went and put out press releases that they were included at the
first dinner, thus infuriating the Republicans. The President was very
sensitive to this, very properly understood the Party position on it. We
then went down the check list of policy questions which are on the attached
memo. On all these nettling political questions the President was most co-
operative to do what was wanted etc.
In the memo was the word 'surrogate'. Bob Hartman referred to it as
'sewer-gate'. The President said, "get ride of that word. I don't like
it. Don't use that word 'surrogate'."
We did discuss the formula for paying for Presidential appearances.
It was agreed we would ask Bill Seidman for the formula. In discussing
fat-cat cocktail parties, we were reminded that the President won't go
where the press can't go for at least five minutes. It was agreed not to
combine governmental and political appearances if at all possible. On
election eve and election day the President agreed that he preferred to be
in Washington. He said that he used to pass them with the chairmen of the
national committee and agreed that this is what he would do, with the
leaders of the committee etc.
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Jr
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
SAVE
August 22, 1974
WITH
Nots
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
DEAN BURCH
SUBJECT:
The 1974 Campaign
(Briefing for Meeting, August 22, 1974, with
Chairman Bush, Senator Brock, Congressman
Michel, Counsellor Hartmann)
In approaching the strategy and mechanics of your participation in the
fall campaign, I am making two assumptions. If either one turns out
to be false, the plan will have to be reassessed.
First Assumption: Congress will adjourn on or
about October 11.
Second Assumption: Governor Rockefeller will
have been confirmed on or before October 11 and
will be available, full time, for political activities
only thereafter. (No reason, in my judgment, why
he cannot take some part during the confirmation
process; but it would have to be mostly short hops
and largely for incumbents or in non-incumbency
races. )
The theme of your campaigning, I would further assume, will be that
until the economy begins to turn the corner, we cannot afford exotic
government programs that entail major additional outlays, and that
you need help in the Congress to set our economic house in order
and trim Federal commitments to our capabilities.
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- 2 -
All races fall into three categories:
(1) Incumbent Republican Governors, Senators,
and Congressmen who are seeking reelection (see
Tab "A");
(2) States and Congressional Districts in which
there is no incumbent (see Tab "B");
(3) States and Congressional Districts in which
a Republican challenger has a reasonable chance
to defeat a Democratic incumbent. (This list of
priority races will be worked out in consultation
with Chairman Bush, Senator Brock, Congress-
man Michel, among other party leaders. We'
cannot reach a final consensus on this until
middle-to-late September, when the candidates
are chosen and we have some early polls.)
An immediate question that needs answering will be your willingness
to appear at fund raisers -- dinners, receptions, rallies. I suggest
an ad hoc approach and, with your permission, will try to work out
some sort of formula to cover your expenses which will be borne,
ultimately, by the Republican National Committee (and the same
formula extended to expenses of the Vice President and cabinet
officers as well).
CHECK-LIST OF POLICY QUESTIONS
The following are some of the obvious policy questions on which we
need your early guidance:
Done
(1) Will you give endorsements and to whom (see also next question)?
In what form? Radio tapes? TV tapes? Still pictures? Letters?
discrect.
(2) What will be your policy concerning Republican candidates
running against "friendly" Democratic incumbents? Bill Timmons
feels that you should be very selective. I feel that you, as leader
of the Republican Party, should offer at least pro forma endorsement
to every bona fide Republican candidate (a picture or letter, for
example, that does not attack the incumbent).
out
will rely you now
what
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-- 3
1
caib and v presks I
(3) Will you flatly refuse to do fat-cat cocktail parties
receptions, or may we consider them on an ad hoc basis
accompanying you?
(4) Will Mrs. Ford participate in the campaign? Solo? Only
Yes-
Yrs
(5) Will your children have any role? Mikes No - Jach -
itelegrams, etc., that go out over your name?
(6) Do you want personally to approve all political letters,
Yrs -Dearm
you
progetter
(7) Will you consider rescheduling some of the engagements
not
that were cancelled wholesale on August 9? For example,
Senator Hugh Scott is terribly anxious for you to do the Philadelphia
statewide fund raiser scheduled for October 9.
will
(8) May we call on cabinet officers and other Surrogates for
campaign appearances (with the traditional exception of the
PASO should will adjain
Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, and Attorney General)
(9) Will you power mix Presidential not combine appearances (e.g., a dam
Thy
mixing. 2 and Bill sendmen for tomma- suggest no
dedication) with campaign ppearances I would
(10) Will you advise us of any tacit or express campaign commit- 2)
3
ments also you may already have made and want to honor? Will
advise us as to the candidates and areas you particularly you want
to visit during the campaign? NY. calf; Ohio, Ill. possibly Texas
(11) Where do you want to spend election eve and election day?
IN D.C.
FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS
on)
with contrict Leaders
I recommend that your appearances should be aimed at a regional
or at least statewide audience (blanketing in all candidates in
handle shot). The Vice President and surrogates should for the most one part
appearances for particular Congressional Districts and
far candidates. The Vice President will generally be working states
the criss-cross: e. g., while you are in the Pacific Coast area,
to distant from those in which you appear, and we would attempt
Vice President would be in the East or South.
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- 4 -
On the assumption that Congress does adjourn in mid-October, I.
would suggest that you do virtually no campaigning (the Philadelphia
appearance might be a rare exception) prior to adjournment. There-
after, I'd hope that we could schedule at least two days the week of
October 14, three days the week of October 21, and four days the
final week of the campaign. This would allow for major appearances
in all regions of the country and would involve only one or two over-
nights away from the Capital. On each campaign day, I would suggest
at least three appearances, usually in different states, with the
national media event scheduled around noon.
I have not even mentioned national, regional, or statewide radio/
TV set pieces (as opposed to covered campaign appearances) plus
a host of other details involving staff, etc. But these are of less
urgency, and they will depend on the basic decisions.
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DRAFT- PRES FORD-
D Thank then for then reconditions
ACTION.
2) 2 consider only Republicans,
Pass
'c) Burch- will he cabinet status -
20) Cuft-linhs etc. - sud to us
dude between countries.
30
Discuss schedulary
0
fund reverse -
of polit october I 2 now time till trans 11 who can word
no trip until lather part
4
Rocky's travel
2
adjunit 'tel election
5. 6) schedule - 1ˢᵗ 1 st month schedule out Pas.
then fill in thing s
for him.
>) Peggy Starton. -
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THE PRESIDENT'S SCHEDULE
Thursday - August 22, 1974
6:30
Dr. William Lukash - Residence Office.
(45 min.)
8:30
General Alexander M. Haig, Jr. - The Oval Office.
9:00
Secretary Henry A. Kissinger - The Oval Office.
10:15
Mr. J. F. terHorst - The Oval Office.
10:30
Senators Frank Church and Charles McC. Mathias, Jr.
(10 min. )
(Major General Brent Scowcroft and Mr. Tom C. Korologos).
The Oval Office.
* 10:45
Signing Ceremony for Proclamation on Women's Equality.
(10 min. )
(Mr. William E. Timmons).
The Oval Office.
11:00
Photogra DO Se: sion with House Republi Candidates.
(120 mins.)
The Oval Office.
*
2:00
Signing Ceremony for S. 3066 - The Housing and Community
(20 min. )
Development Act of 1974.
The East Room.
* 2:30
Mr. Paul Hall, President, Seafarers International Union of
(30 min.)
North America.
The Oval Office.
3:45
Mr. Richard Keiser, Special Agent in Charge, Presidential
(5 min.)
Protective Division.
The Oval Office.
4:00
Chairman George Bush, Senator Bill Brock, and Congressman
(60 min.)
Robert H. Michel. (Mr. Dean Burch) Robert Hattmons)
The Oval Office.
5:00
Chairman George Bush - The Oval Office.
7:30
Private Dinner - The Residence.
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August 22, 1974 - Meeting in Oval Office - 5 to 6:05 p.m. - personal
meeting with the President following a political meeting (Brock, Michel,
Burch, Hartman). We sat at the desk in the oval office. The President
indicated that the decision on the VP had been very close. You should have
been very complemented by the support. What do you want? Haig had indicated
that the President had told me George can have anything he wants. I discussed
the Cabinet, mentioning Commerce. I told him my great friend Dent was
there. If the change was definite I would want that, but I would in no
way want to elbow Dent aside, since he was a close friend and his wife
was one of our favorite people. Ford made no comment on all of this.
I am wondering if he hadn't something else totally in mind for Commerce.
I urged the President to put his imprint on the Party, at the Cabinet, on
the foreign policy. We had a good discussion about this.
I discussed my concern about the Rockefeller and Kissinger deal. Kissinger
told the President "I can help you with Rocky." This was backwards and
was my concern. I said I think it is a good appointment. I am strongly
supporting it. I just don't want to have you against them when it comes
to the crunch in foreign policy or anything else. I told him of Kissinger
scheduling a Middle East trip without Nixon knowing about it. Ford said
he felt Nelson Rockefeller would be supportive. I' totally agreed. I
told him I foresaw some party problems as a result of this Rockefeller
appointment but that we could totally handle them. We discussed the
successor. He told me that he would ask Anne Armstrong about this. I
agreed she would be great. We then talked about Mary Louise Smith. He
said if Anne did it, what would she do. We both agreed she could do a
good job. He suggested sub-cabinet or I said she would be good in an
embassy. The President taked about the need for access - running it differently
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-2-
than it had been done, being careful however not to ever downgrade Nixon.
We discussed my being ambassador to UK, maybe China. He asked if I had
any languages. I said, "No". He said, "Just like me". (very nice touch)
He told me that Haig, you and me are the only onesaware of this at all.
Not even Henry Kissinger. We discussed Haig. He talked about a good
ambassador's job or even Abrams' job. He said that Abrams was very sick.
Back to Anne Armstrong he said that Anne's moving would solve some
problems here. He discussed Hartman's and Marsh's role. We discussed
my being chief of staff if there was some real substance. I brought it
up. Ford seemed very interested in that. Ford just having said however
that the chief of staff job was changed he wanted to see more people
than Nixon did. He wanted to deal more with them himself. I told him
I could see a role where I would deal with the embassies, special interest groups,
etc. but only if there was some stature or substance involved in this
deal.
We went back and talked more about England. He wondered if it was
substantive enough O did I. We talked about the money. I told him I
had lost a lot of money and didn't know if I could afford it. He indicated
there were some outside ways of doing this. I told him I was aware of this
from my UN days.
Ford said, "I will mention it to Kissinger. I see no problems there. "
We also touched on France and China. We talked about timing. Ford said,
"You want to get through clearances before adjournment. This would mean
before election because Congress is supposed to adjourn by the second week
in October I indicated to the President that I had been through Fulbright's
committee once - feel I could go again especially if you call him.
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-3-
We went back to China. I told him the UN vote conceivably could
be against me although I got along with them once they were there. I
told him that I was very interested in foreign affairs. I wanted to
do more in foreign affairs in the future. I told him I kind of crossed
the domestic politics bridge with this Vice Presidential message. I
indicated that way down the line, maybe 1980, if I stayed involved in
foreign affairs, I conceivably could qualify for Secretary of State.
The President seemed to agree. He was very warm, very grateful, very
friendly. I told him that if I was appointed to England the party people
would think he was moving me over and out - or kicking me upstairs. I
told him this was perfectly OK with me though because I thought it was
a great challenge. I told him, "You don't owe me a thing." "I could
very easily go back into private life." Indeed we discussed it. He
said, "I don't want you to do that. I don't want to lose your talents."
We talked about problems with Ken Rush. I tol him I thought Rush
of
would like an embassy or just as soon go home. I told him my dinner with
Rush a few nights before where Rush indicated that he liked the diplomatic
business better. I told him I didn't feel Rush was all that happy in
this new job.
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8-22-74
5 to 605 Oval offace
my corplimentory about
very close you should re 3,
what do you want - (Hang had
said Pres. sand 'anything')
GB- Dountec. Commer but
great fined Dent these - If change
definite would want that - (no count)
GB
englat imput on party, cakent,
for policy
Discussed Rochy HK deal 1
HK told hum I can help with moch
ars- just 20 you don't have
2 23 / - those 2 vs. you
Told man of HK schdulog
ME tmp mtthout RN hourry it 7
F fets RN of he supportive GD
agreed
CB'STULE party problems- we can
4
handle em 1-
Nurl
Discussed simeson-
X
wish
are Anne A - GD agreed
Own
great
of what about MS -
GB govt - high up on
Embassay on stiral 90 have
I
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PISON uk - wayhe Uwa
do you have languagers ? - No
just like me. "luice touch.)
Have, you, me only ones Rure divor
of the 1107 even AK -
Discuss Hove -
Goodpastorio job who ributes
on even Abrams - (Ahe my rich)
an "Ane woung world save problem
here" - Discussed Hubmen,
Marsh nokz-
GB - Id he cheft of statt it real
substance - (Ford just having
send C of statt job changed he
wanted to we more people than
RN - deal with move etc
GB - work 20m unth MCs
special groups - labon other
only do & of staturess etc.
1
GR my interneted it zurned
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Bacb to England
IS it substantic we
money (afford) - Hag chule sowers
of help
GF IYI nutrout to HG - see no
problems there
Timing - F you'el want to get though
clearances before adjounist
GB - been the Fallonglots com once
fel can go again shude ifyou
call him"
Chua- told min UN vote probly vs
me
told him -Went wave in foreyro afteris
for future - possulely see su-state in
1980 for a then Rep. preseduct
my wom - very grateful -
my fundly
told wnit uk, people party world blend
he was money we our 2 out
Baith On with we Hengle -"quat
challenge"
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G = You don't one me a thing - please
to I could casily go back to
provide Like-
{
F = Don't want you to - Dont wart
to love your tablets 4
Talk about prishline Rush I told
have hid poobly When an Emberry on
go how - tolel an I. ful Kush
not all that huppy in this 136 -
11
Photo Copy Preservation
August 26, 1974 - 1:45 p.m. - The President called - munching on a
sandwich - he said, "Excuse me. I'm in the process of eating." He said,
"I'd like to talk more about the matter we talked about. I was in Maine.
He said, "I have talked to Henry Kissinger about the diplomatic post as
you and I had talked about them. Any one of them are OK with me. He said,
"I think the one that is the best for you is China. Henry Kissinger thinks
that UK would not challenge your capabilities enough.' The President said,
"There would be a lot of entertaining and a lot of form, but not enough
substance. Kissinger pointed out that in case of China, you would have to
understand that the major decisions were made by the chief of governments
(a word of caution which I assured the President I understood about). Kis-
singer personally liked the idea of France because he felt there was SO
much substance there, but the President indicated that I had shown not
much interest in France. I agreed with him on that. The President said
I think you would be bored with the social life in Great Britain. He said,
"I'd gathered you'd like China". I agreed with this. He said, "We are trying
to put together a package. I am trying to get Flanigan for Spain and then
he discussed Ken Rush going to Austria and asked me about Fulbright about
the UK. I raised the question saying there were still political problems
with Fulbright, worrying that some of the Party people might indicate the
way you get ahead is to attack the Administration. I thought there were
still some strong feelings on the war. He also talked about trying to get
that fellow Bob Anderson to go to France, the one who Annenberg had wanted
to get to follow him to England. I gave Bob Anderson a very strong recommenda-
tion. The President indicated he was going to talk to Hugh Scott on Fulbright,
and also might check with John Rhodes. I told him I thought Fulbright would
have no problems with it, but we might have some enormous party problems. He
Photo Copy Preservation
-2-
indicated that he wanted to get it done soon. He wanted to get a reading on
it. I asked him how his conversation with Anne had gone. He indicated
Anne wanted to stay in the White House. Anne thought it would be a good
idea for a woman to be party chairman but not Anne. He asked about Mary
Louise Smith. I told him I thought Mary Louise Smith could do a good job
and that I didn't think we would get strong party problems. I also thought
that if we had a strong co-chairman that the committee definitely would
buy the idea. In other words the President would recommend Mary Louise
Smith and in consultation with Mary Louise they were both recommending a
certain co-chairman. The President thought that idea was good, said he'd
like to have somebody on the conservative side. Maybe from the South.
I raised with him the question of Chief of Staff. He seemed to think that
matter was still alive though he thought going to China was much better
for me. I am inclined to agree with that.
I liked the way the President says "talking as a friend". I told him
that I felt my political future was behind me and that I would really
want to do what was best for him.
Note: He seems to be moving towards getting his own imprint on foreign
policy, toward getting certain key ambassadors in place. It makes a good
deal of sense. The President mentioned several times the need for total
secrecy on all of this. On timing he wanted to get the nominations approved
before Congress adjourned which would mean the end of October. My initial
conversation lasted about 10 minutes. My initial instinct is that we will
miss a lot in this country although of course, we will get home plenty.
But it seems to me to be a tremendous challenge and a tremendous opportunity
of substance leading to somewhere - out of the foray, building enormous
knowledge and having a great opportunity to learn. The President asked that
I call him back about the Committee thing.
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From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
1. talk about natter we
talled about
2 talk HA - ay we salud
about are OK
3. me not hert for you
is China -
5, Th thicks UG would not
chollenge capabilities
6. Hh - 120 care of PRC major
duvions made
7. HA presonally liked Frence-
cuz so meel substance
8. personally- -
9. CF "bowd intho social Who
t gathrict GP "I gathed you'd
like Chun
Photo Copy Preservation
From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
1. talk about natter we
talled about
2. talk HA ay we salud
about are OK
3. me not best for your
is China -
5, #h shules UA would not
challenge
6. Hh - in care of PRC major
invisions made
7. HA personally and Frence-
cuz so meel substane
8. personally-
9. CF "bowd intho social like
t gathrich are "I gathered you'd
like Chun
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August 28, 1974 - White House - Bar and I went down to Washington
from Kennebunkport for the Cabinet dinner. I had a long discussion with
Dean Burch ahead of time about who would be my successor at the RNC. I
didn't tell Dean what the President had in mind for me, but I did indicate
timing would be sooner rather than later, probably before the elections.
The President had approached Anne Armstrong about being Chairman. She
apparently had definitively turned him down. I had talked to the President
about Mary Louise Smith and I-mentioned it to Dean, asking his view on
who would be a good number two. We explored the idea of having a member
of congress, preferably from the South - the President had suggested
bringing the conservative image more to the fore in the committee. Burch
commented that Mrs. Smith was excellent, wonderful, able, but looked like
'everybody's grandmother'. Whereas Anne had a much more dynamic image,
would have more appeal to youth, better speaker etc. I agreed with him
though I have infinite respect for Mary Louise Smith. We talked about
Kuykendall, Bill Archer, Hammerschmidt as possible co-chairman. He came
up with the idea of Jack Kemp, the idea being to get a congressman who
would conduct most of the liaison work with the elected members of the
Party. He would still be Number 2 to Mary Louise. We kind of agreed that
senators would not get into that posture. At the White House I stopped
and had a brief visit with the President, telling him that I owed him a
phone call since he did call me in Maine two days before and asked me for
my opinion on a successor. He indicated that the China matter was still
very much on track. I told him the more I thought about it the more
enthused I was about it and that I hoped nothing happened to derail it.
He indicated that it definitely would not. He indicated again that he
thought Anne would talk to her and lean on her a little bit trying to get
her to reconsider.
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The President indicated regarding Anne on an earlier call that 'they get
White House fever'. He felt the National Committee was much better for
Anne than where she is now and so did Burch. I raised with the President
the Fulbright matter again and he indicated well there will be something
else that will offset this that will make the conservatives very happy.
The evening was very relaxed. I sat next to Mrs. Ford, Barbara next to
Rog Morton and the Secretary of Defense. It was a small dinner for
Cabinet and a very few others. I was next to Mrs. Buekan. Betty Ford
whispered - very quiet, looked pretty, seemed relaxed. We left right
after the dinner had broken up to catch a ten o'clock plane. I began to
wonder if we are getting pretty blase to leave a wonderful White House
evening like that. The President made a toast - informal - men were
dressed informally. He has a wonderful way of relaxing people. He came
up to me to discuss the China matter - told me he was very pleased about
it, told me the Chinese would be very pleased about it, told me that it
should be two years, no less, told me there would be times when I would
be dealing with the most secret aspects of our diplomacy, but times when
there wouldn't be that much to do. Apparently the staff in our mission
has only eight or SO though he said you might want to build it. You
could have at least twenty or more -- whatever you want.
I was surprised to find Kissinger as enthusiastic as he was. I
think Haig had told me that I had been misreading Kissinger's reaction
on this. Kissinger referred to this being so much more substantive than
London. He said I couldn't care less who is in London. It's mainly enter-
tainment, protocol. I agreed with him and I totally do. Bill Scranton
stopped me as we walked in there - said, "I am very excited about all of
this. You -- what's happening to you. You deserve it. It's the best
possible thing for you. He was sincere and genuine."
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-3-
He got Bar aside and told her the same thing. I was a little surprised
that he knew about it since the President told me the only people he had
mentioned it to were Haig and Kissinger.
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S are wotes
From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
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8-27
From the desk of
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From the desk of
GEORGE BUSH
a) Nitty gritty,
8-27
From the desk of
GEORGE D BUSH called From
Brussels- -
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September 4, 1974 - 12:45 p.m. - talked to President Nixon - reserved,
very reserved - "How's your family"? "Fine, George. Give my best to your
family," he said. He was very formal, very perfunctory. I said it would
be nice to come over there. Hinted twice about being nice to chat - like
very much to visit on this, and the President never responded. He sounded
very quiet. He chatted a little bit about China - saying that after 25 years -
that it would be such a power - that it would be kind of lonely and quiet -
things are isolated and separated - you only see people at big diplomatic
functions - but it would be a great experience.
He was less than warm personally. I inquired about him and he was
reserved. I gave him credit saying "This wouldn't have been possible of
course without you" etc., etc., but he never warmed up at that. The con-
versation was very brief - Steve Bull put me on.
Reaction - I am glad I called but I feel
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October 8, 1974 - Conversation with Sec. of State Kissinger.
Met at elevator - 3:45 - Henry K. rushing to President's speech on
economy at Capitol - leaving at midnight for Middle East.
HECTIC!! worried about traffic etc. - mad-house.
Points of substance:
1. I raised question of being kept informed - mem-cons, etc. "You
will be kept fully informed. Bruce has been kept fully informed."
(I know Bruce did not see all UN mem-cons, etc.)
2. I raised point - try to get to know new leaders? Did Solomon tell
you to do that? "No. I've had good discussions with Solomon, but
not on that.' HK agreed it would be useful.
3. I told him I was worried about mood in Congress and what it meant
to policy. I feel China policy, 'til now widely accepted. May come
in for more flak if all that is seen are petty frustrations -
refusing visas, no movement, etc.
HK picked this up - said when you get there you may want to impress
on them need for forward movement in our November talks - (Action)
4. Consultations - asked if OK to come back as Bruce did.
HK - "Absolutely - I want you to come back."
5. HK said I should host a dinner for him in China - not at USLO but
at General Hall of People. HK - Remember, I warned you - isolated,
different etc. A lot of times boring but when substance very important.
I will tell them that you are not just another ambassador but are to
be trusted etc - same theme he gave to Chias at NY dinner.
"Pres - candidate" - close to Pres - could have had any ambassadorship
he wanted - good man, etc."
All in all - cordial but at times pre-occupied - hectic.
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-2-
HK does not retain personal grace when things are hectic - came alive
as climbed out of car on Hill - waved to crowd etc. but with me never
'farewell', 'good luck' - yet when concentrating - very nice about all
this.
I am enthralled by the brilliance of his sweep of history, mastering
of his subjects, humor in diplomacy; but appalled at his vanity, disregard
of others' feelings, disorganized hectic ways.
WOW!
HK spoke well of Holdridge.
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PERSONAL NOTES
Oct. 73 - Aug 74.
O ct Oct 73
BUSH LIBRARY PHOTOCOPY - PRESERVATION