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This file contains:
To: H.R. Haldeman Through: Dwight Chapin From: William E. Timmons RE: "'72 Convention: Key Posts.'" 2pgs [Subject: Campaign] [Memo], 8/8/1972
Alternate Program Group Report - goal is to "lead" the T.V. networks in to saying what the Republican party wants during the Republican National Convention. 5pgs [Subject: Campaign] [Report], no date
To: The Record From: Gordon Strachan RE: "Convention Meeting - July 25, 1972." 7pgs [Subject: Campaign] [Memo], 7/26/1972
To: The Record From: Gordon Strachan RE: "Convention Meeting - July 25, 1972." 7pgs [Subject: Campaign] [Memo], 7/26/1972
To: H.R. Haldeman From: Dwight L. Chapin RE: Status report on the planning for the Republican National Convention. 10pgs [Subject: Campaign] [Memo], 7/18/1972
To: Dwight Chapin From: H.R. Haldeman RE: "Convention Planning." 1pg [Subject: Campaign] [Memo], 7/13/1972
1972 Republican National Convention, Miami Beach, Florida, itinerary from 12:30PM-1:11PM. 1pg [Subject: Campaign] [Report], 8/21/1972
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WHSF: Contested, 45-18
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26146210
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WHSF: Contested, 45-18
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This file contains:
To: H.R. Haldeman Through: Dwight Chapin From: William E. Timmons RE: "'72 Convention: Key Posts.'" 2pgs [Subject: Campaign] [Memo], 8/8/1972
Alternate Program Group Report - goal is to "lead" the T.V. networks in to saying what the Republican party wants during the Republican National Convention. 5pgs [Subject: Campaign] [Report], no date
To: The Record From: Gordon Strachan RE: "Convention Meeting - July 25, 1972." 7pgs [Subject: Campaign] [Memo], 7/26/1972
To: The Record From: Gordon Strachan RE: "Convention Meeting - July 25, 1972." 7pgs [Subject: Campaign] [Memo], 7/26/1972
To: H.R. Haldeman From: Dwight L. Chapin RE: Status report on the planning for the Republican National Convention. 10pgs [Subject: Campaign] [Memo], 7/18/1972
To: Dwight Chapin From: H.R. Haldeman RE: "Convention Planning." 1pg [Subject: Campaign] [Memo], 7/13/1972
1972 Republican National Convention, Miami Beach, Florida, itinerary from 12:30PM-1:11PM. 1pg [Subject: Campaign] [Report], 8/21/1972
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Richard M. Nixon's Returned Materials Collection
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Richard Nixon Presidential Library
Contested Materials Collection
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Box Number
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No Date
Subject
Document Type
Document Description
45
18
8/8/1972
Campaign
Memo
To: H.R. Haldeman Through: Dwight
Chapin From: William E. Timmons RE: "72
Convention: Key Posts." 2pgs
45
18
Campaign
Report
Alternate Program Group Report - goal is to
"lead" the T.V. networks in to saying what
the Republican party wants during the
Republican National Convention. 5pgs
45
18
7/26/1972
Campaign
Memo
To: The Record From: Gordon Strachan RE:
"Convention Meeting - July 25, 1972." 7pgs
45
18
7/26/1972
Campaign
Memo
To: The Record From: Gordon Strachan RE:
"Convention Meeting - July 25, 1972." 7pgs
45
18
7/18/1972
Campaign
Memo
To: H.R. Haldeman From: Dwight L. Chapin
RE: Status report on the planning for the
Republican National Convention. 10pgs
45
18
7/13/1972
Campaign
Memo
To: Dwight Chapin From: H.R. Haldeman
RE: "Convention Planning." 1pg
45
18
8/21/1972
Campaign
Report
1972 Republican National Convention,
Miami Beach, Florida, itinerary from
12:30PM-1:11 1pg
Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Page 1 of 1
High Privity
August 8, 1972
MEMORANDUM FOR:
H. R. HALDEMAN
THROUGH:
DWIGHT CHAPIN
RA
FROM:
WILLIAM E. TIMMONS
SUBJECT:
'72 Convention
Key Posts
Attached is my final recommendation for individuals to participate
in major roles during the Convention.
Clark MacGregor endorses the list. Bob Dole, the Vice President,
and John Connally have not see it. However, Dole is aware of Reagan
and the possibility of Brooke, Lugar and Armstrong. Roy Goodearle
believes the Vice President will take Griffin and Smith -- and maybe
Heckler and Evans too but won't ask him until he gets our recom-
mendations. You have the action on Connally.
A word about Anne Armstrong: we've searched high and low for
a suitable woman that can speak and have stage presence -- but
without success. Anne would be appropriate to give the "open
door welcome" part of the keynote and she's lobbying for time
to make a speech. Also, her participation would be seen as our
giving another highly visible role to the Republican National Committee.
Will you please discuss these names with the President and give me
guidance Timeis important.
CONVENTION PROGRAM
TO INTRODUCE KEYNOTE FILM & PARTICIPANTS: Ronald Reagan (Calif)
KEYNOTE PARTICIPANTS:
1. Ed Brooke - accomplishments
2. Dick Lugar - attack opponent
3. Anne Armstrong - open door policy
TO NOMINATE THE PRESIDENT: Nelson Rockefeller (NY)
TO SECOND THE PRESIDENT:
1. Walter Hickel (Alaska) - former Cabinet & Governor
2. Donald Morrison (Wisconsin) - Youngest Delegate (18)
3. Bob Ray (Iowa) - Governor, farm state
4. Ethel Allen (Pa) - Black City Councilman
5. Ralph Perk (Ohio) - Cleveland Mayor, Ethnic
mofe
senta.
6. Sherrie Shealey (S. C.) - 22 year old State Legislator
yes
7. Frank Borman (Fla) - Former Astronaut
8. Manuel Lujan (N. Mex) - Congressman, Spanish
9. Catherine Rondinelli (Ill) - Italian
TO NOMINATE THE VICE PRESIDENT: Gov. Dan Evans (Wash.)
TO SECOND THE VICE PRESIDENT:
1. Bob Griffin (Mich) - Senator, busing
2. Margaret Heckler (Mass) - Congressman, liberal
3. Jody Smith (Iowa) - Youngest Mayor
TO INTRODUCE THE VICE PRESIDENT: James Buckley (NY)
TO INTRODUCE THE PRESIDENT: The Vice President
DEMOCRATIC SEGMENT:
1. Barry Goldwater - major 5 minute speech; introduces Connally
2. John Connally - moderates Democratic portion
3. Frank Rizzo - Mayor
4. Floyd McKissick - CORE
woman?
5. John O'Neill - Veteran
6. Charleton Heston - Actor
ALTERNATE PROGRAM GROUP
CONCEPT
Between 1/3 and 2/5's of the time the Republican National
Convention is in session the T.V. cameras will be on the formal Conven-
tion activities. The balance of the time the T.V. networks will devote
to alternate programming -- interviews of delegates and newsworthy figures,
commentary, demonstrations, movement of the First Family, and other acti-
vities associated with the Convention.
Our goal will be to "lead" the T.V. networks to put on their
alternate programming the person and/or activity we want at the time we
want and saying what we want. Themes and sub-themes will be developed
for each of the Convention's sessions and issue cards will be given to
our spokesmen.
We would, also, input the T.V. networks in terms of various
activities at times other than when the Convention is in session. Again,
we would endeavor to have the people we wanted interviewed saying what
we want.
A. Action Plan
I. Areas of Responsibility
a) Alternate Programming During the Convention Session
1. Assign topics for each session to potential spokesmen.
2. Contact and recruit spokesmen.
3. Brief spokesmen and/or representatives in Miami.
4. Consider need of exposure of Senators and Governors
running this year and obtain as spokesmen.
5. Consider exposure to aid in our key states and obtain
spokesmen.
6. Prepare 3" X 5" cards with proposed states for each
session and each spokesman.
7. Have wires covered for late breaking news to grind into
line.
8. Set up master chart for each network for each session
(as well as non-session time) with times for each potential
spokesmen.
9. Establish reserve spokesmen for emergencies and brief them.
-2-
10. Endeavor to obtain cooperation of "Wednesday Group."
11. Obtain spokesmen from delegates and visitors on
demographic basis.
12. Obtain Democrats for Nixon spokesmen.
13. Obtain as spokesmen wives of "big names."
14. Play networks off against each other.
15. Maintain contact with networks through Command Room and
RNC representative.
16. Orchestrate appearances of the "big names. "
17. Have youth and other activities planned at needed times.
18. Maintain communications on and off the Convention floor.
19. Schedulers to schedule times of interviews and movement
of spokesmen.
20. Organize coverage of delegates by their local radio
stations having inputed such delegates.
b) First Family Movements and Activities At All Times
At all times we will be in contact with the T.V. networks
regarding movement of the First Family and endeavor to have
such movements televised.
c) Youth and Other Activities At All Times
We will maintain communications at all times with the T.V.
networks to obtain coverage of the above activities. We
will endeavor to input the "big names" that appear on T.V.
shows and interviews other than at the Convention Sessions.
B. Themes
Monday Afternoon
- Contrast with Democrat Convention.
- Party of all the people.
- Democrats for Nixon.
- Youth and Women for Nixon.
Monday Evening
Attack
- McGovern's welfare plans.
- Eagleton's call for higher taxes.
- McGovern's defense proposals as relates to
jobs and Israel.
-3-
- McGovern's people outside the Convention
site.
- Labor and Democrats for Nixon.
- Youth and Women for Nixon.
Tuesday Afternoon
Promises
- Republican platform contrasted with -- Me-
Govern's positions and Democrat platform.
- How our platform is better for all the
people as demonstrated by the Nixon record.
Tuesday Evening
Accomplishments
- Contrast Nixon's record of accomplishments
with McGovern's fuzzy ideas.
- Accomplishments must be in context of what
they mean to people for the future.
- Nixon's accomplishments demonstrate his
vision and gives hope for a better tomorrow.
- China-Russia.
- Vietnam.
- Inflation-economy.
Wednesday evening
Unity and personal qualities of the President
- Is highly competent.
- Gives security to you - the people.
- Nixon is the President of all the people --
Democrats, Independents, Jews, labor,
Roman Catholics, youth, aged etc. -- and
they are joining his team.
- Nixon cares about everyone - you.
C. Mechanical Needs
1. Command Rooms at Convention site
2. Office at headquarters hotel
3. Communications at Command Room
a) phones (including to the chair)
b) walkie-talkies
c) messengers
d) writers
e) typewriters
-4-
f) floor passes
g) three T.V. sets
h) driver and car
D. Personnel at Miami
1. Director and assistant at Command Room
2. Two writers at Command Room
3. Floor controllers
4. Schedulers of spokesmen
5. Briefers of spokesmen
6. Drivers and cars
7. Controllers in lobby and outside of Convention site
8. News wire reader
9. Controllers on headquarters hotel
10. Controllers with youth group
11. Secretaries
E. Responsibilities
Director
E. D. Failor
will undertake the overall
direction and supervise the
execution of the Alternate
Program Group. R.S. will
act as full time coordinator.
Political
Fred LaRue
will contribute political input.
Issues
Ed Morgan
identify issues to be used by
spokesmen, call states to ascertain
issues they are interested, prepare
memorandum to E.D. Failor re same.
Writer
Dave Gergan
prepare 3" X 5" cards prior to
Convention per agree upon themes
and issues, write 3" X 5" cards
in Command Room during sessions
as needed.
-5-
Logistics
John Needecker
to furnish all logistical needs
Jon Foust
for the operation.
Voting Blocks Stan Anderson
obtain potential spokesmen from
voting blocks.
Spokesmen
Bart Porter
obtain spokesmen and confirm.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ADMINISTRATIVELY CONFIDENTIAL
July 26, 1972
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE RECORD
FROM:
GORDON STRACHAN
G
SUBJECT:
Convention Meeting - July 25, 1972
On July 25 at 2:30 p.m. Haldeman met with Chapin, Moore
and Carruthers to discuss the status of Convention planning.
Goal of Convention
Chapin described the goal of the Convention to be pursuit
of the blue collar, laboring, common man worker-types, rather
than a party for the fat-cat Republicans. Bob agreed and
added that we should also be after youth, but the youth
should be pursued as people not as "youth".
Gala
Chapin asked about the Gala on the Sunday night before the
Convention and whether it should be Black Tie. All recom-
mended to Bob that it not be Black Tie and Bob agreed that
it should be changed from Black Tie to business suits. Even
if Bill Timmons has to tell Beull Berenson that the First
Family will not attend if the event is Black Tie, the event
must be changed.
Telethon
Chapin opened by saying that no one likes telethons. Bob
responded by saying that the Jackie Gleason Telethon would
be a terrible idea because it wouldn't allow any of our
Celebrities to be presented. Bob made the point that there
were two purposes to a telethon: 1) to Showcase our
- 2 -
Celebrities, and 2) to raise money to show that the Republican
Party is not in a fat-cat situation with its "$10 million
slush" fund. Carruthers was opposed to anything that smacks
of a telethon because there is such a mess in terms of
scheduling. As an alternative, Bob suggested a one hour
"Ed Sullivan" type event -- that is, controlled and organized.
Carruthers agreed saying that the show should be one hour
and done on tape. Chapin will come back to Haldeman with a
decision memorandum on whether to do a one hour television
show. Included in the decision memorandum should be the
reference to Bob Wood of CBS who suggested the availability
of the Sunday night before the Convention at 9 or 10 p.m.
The total cost would be $500-600,000 including $200,000 in
time costs and $300-400,000 in production.
Bob emphasized that the financial pitch on the telethon
should be for funds under $10 and emphasized that we (the
Republicans) need the money. The possibility of using Jackie
Gleason as the Master of Ceremonies to locate the event in
Miami Beach was suggested and received favorably. The possi-
ble use of Gleason and Sinatra as well as someone like Sammy
Davis was suggested. Also, Bob Hope joking with Bing Crosby
was suggested. Before submitting the decision memorandum,
Chapin must check the one-half dozen top stars to find out
whether the telethon should even be considered. This is to
be in today by early afternoon.
Television and Problems at the Hall
Carruthers discussed four problems at the Hall. The first
was credentials for TV people. Bob suggested five different
color special passes for each session with time limits on
them. The second problem concerned floor cameras. Carruthers
will talk to Bill Timmons about increasing the number. Dick
Herman has been resisting. The third problem concerned the
lighting. Carruthers said additional money would be required
to raise the commitment by Herman from $5,000 to $12,500.
By adding this money, we are purchasing a degree of influence
over the lighting at the Convention. We do not have complete
control of the lighting in the Hall (a 100,000 decision and
mistake). Carruthers will just have to continue negotiating
with the networks. Carruthers said the fourth problem was
TV coverage of outside activities. He said the nets won't
cover some events such as the Youth event on Tuesday night
- 3 -
that we might want covered. Bob suggested that we obtain
a mobile unit which Carruthers estimated would cost
between $30-40,000. Bob suggested that Chapin contact
Clem Stone, who is building a mobile unit, and see if
something could be worked out.
Democrats for the President
Bill Timmons arrived and Chapin asked what the Democratic
event in Philadelphia was. Bob said that nothing was set
and that it was merely offered as a possibility so that
Mayor Rizzo could hold a rally in Philadelphia instead
of having to appear before the Republican Convention.
Another possibility that Bob mentioned was to have all
the Democrats for the President meet at Connally's home
in Texas and have a remote TV pickup there. Bob agreed
to call Connally to review Democrats for the President
participation at the Convention. In particular, Bob was
going to check on Rizzo, Floyd McKissick and Charlton
Heston with Connally. Connally would definitely run this
entire Democrats for the President event. Bob suggested
that all the Democrats for the President might want to be
on one plane, arrive for 20 minutes at the Convention with
Connally and then depart. Chapin asked whether the Demo-
crats for the President would be doing any press conferences,
and Bob said he would check with Connally.
Convention Program
Concerning the recommended program, the attached sheet which
all had at the meeting was revised. Monday night remains
the same, that is, a First Lady night. Tuesday night is
changed SO that the nomination, balloting and demonstration
for President can occur. Then there is the possibility
that the President will go to the Youth Rally between 9:30
and 10 p.m. Tuesday night. This information is to be kept
in the strictest confidence. Bob told the group with special
emphasis towards Timmons that if the possible Presidential
participation in the Youth Rally leaked to anyone, it would
not happen. At the Youth Rally it was decided that just
hand-held lights and informal camera arrangements would be
- 4 -
made. Julie and Tricia would be used as a front and
Carruthers will get into the Youth Rally format on a very
low key basis. The second event on Tuesday night will be
the Democrats for Nixon, with prime time for Connally at
10 or 10:30. Wednesday night will include the "Nixon,
the Man" film, the Vice Presidential nomination, balloting
and demonstration.
Vice President's Role
The Vice Presidential acceptance speech may lead to a Vice
Presidential introduction of the President, followed by
the President's acceptance speech. Bob will check with
the President as to whether the Vice President should intro-
duce him.
Eisenhower Participation
Chapin advised Bob that Mamie Eisenhower will not attend
the Convention. Instead, a videotape will be prepared by
Carruthers. David Eisenhower's participation is not
important according to Bob, but Chapin will submit a
decision memorandum on whether David Eisenhower should
introduce the videotape of Mamie.
Convention Rules Changes
Concerning the July 24 memorandum from Bill Timmons regarding
all the rules changes, that matter was postponed with Bob
emphasizing to Timmons that a much larger group would have
to get together and that Bob would be merely an observer
rather than a participant.
Seconding Speeches
Concerning the seconding speeches for the President, it was
agreed that either 15 at 40 seconds each or 10 at a longer
time segment could be done SO long as the limit of ten
minutes was adhered to. Bob approved the concept of several
seconding speeches but not the particular details. He asked
- 5 -
Chapin to have the writers prepare possible statements by
all the seconders. Bob mentioned that the Mexican-American
seconder should speak in Spanish as the Italian ethnic
should speak in Italian. Asked whether Wally Hickel should
second the President, Bill Timmons pointed out that he was
a delegate on the floor from Alaska. Bob approved Hickel
seconding the President if he were correctly scripted.
Chapin was to check Stans on getting to Hickel.
Ann Armstrong's Role
Concerning Ann Armstrong's role, it was noted that although
Dole should bring the gavel down opening the Convention on
Monday morning, Ann Armstrong should be the person presiding
on Monday evening. She should also handle many of the "non-
substantive" aspects of the Convention.
Nomination of the Vice President
Bill Timmons will meet with Roy Goodearle and advise him
that the program has been set and that the suggested people
at this time are the young Mayor, possibly Chaffee, and a
third person as yet undecided. Bob said the seconders should
not be Javits or Percy.
Goldwater's Role
Concerning Goldwater's role, all agreed that he must be on
the program. It was finally agreed that Goldwater might be
the one to introduce Connally and the Democrats for Nixon
with a sort of funny line about the difference between now
and 1964. Also, it was noted that Alf Landon should be
invited to the Convention and placed in a high visibility
box. The point is to emphasize the difference between the
Republicans who treat a former candidate well and the Demo-
crats who screwed Johnson.
Introducer of the President
Bob agreed to check with the President as to who the intro-
ducer of the President should be as well as the introducer
of the Vice President should be.
- 6 -
Miscellaneous
1) Paul Keyes - He should not be behind the Platform as
Chapin at one time suggested. Instead, he should
probably be at Miami Beach writing quips that can be
fed to various people during the Convention.
2) Bill Timmons will have a plan of alternate program-
ming, press conferences and caucus teams.
3) Timmons is having a problem with Ehrlichman and Rose
regarding a list of spokesmen at the Platform but
believes they can resolve the matter.
4) Reagan should not be the introducer of the President
because he is Temporary Chairman.
5) Rockefeller will nominate the President and he is
locked.
6) Bob said that Ed Brooks should not be the Moderator
as that would be too obvious, but he should have a
role in the panel of keynoters.
7) Concerning Dick Lugar, Bob mentioned that he should
probably be included in the panel.
8) Concerning Governor Evans, there was general agree-
ment that he might be useful because he will read
a script given to him.
9) Bob noted that Bush cannot be used. Neither can
Red Blount per Haldeman and Bob jabbed at Timmons
for making such a stupid suggestion.
10) When Timmons mentioned that there were very few
ethnics and women, Bob suggested that Timmons work
directly with Balzano and Franklin to get this worked
out.
11) Concerning the Heritage Gala on Sunday night, Bob
suggested that Mrs. Nixon attend while the girls
do the regular Gala.
RECOMMENDED PROGRAM
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
P.M.: Reagan/Keynote/
RN Nomination
Nixon Film
Film
Balloting
Demonstration
VP Nomination
PN Tribute with
Balloting
Film
President to Youth
Demonstration
Rally (just use
VP Acceptance Speech
hand lights, etc.)
Use Julie & Tricia
VP Introduces RN
as front.
Carruthers into their
RN Acceptance Speech
format.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ADMINISTRATIVELY CONFIDENTIAL
July 26, 1972
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE RECORD
FROM:
GORDON STRACHAN
SUBJECT:
Convention Meeting - July 25, 1972
On July 25 at 2:30 p.m. Haldeman met with Chapin, Moore
and Carruthers to discuss the status of Convention planning.
Goal of Convention
Chapin described the goal of the Convention to be pursuit
of the blue collar, laboring, common man worker-types, rather
than a party for the fat-cat Republicans. Bob agreed and
added that we should also be after youth, but the youth
should be pursued as people not as "youth".
Gala
Chapin asked about the Gala on the Sunday night before the
Convention and whether it should be Black Tie. All recom-
mended to Bob that it not be Black Tie and Bob agreed that
it should be changed from Black Tie to business suits. Even
if Bill Timmons has to tell Beull Berenson that the First
Family will not attend if the event is Black Tie, the event
must be changed.
Telethon
Chapin opened by saying that no one likes telethons. Bob
responded by saying that the Jackie Gleason Telethon would
be a terrible idea because it wouldn't allow any of our
Celebrities to be presented. Bob made the point that there
were two purposes to a telethon: 1) to Showcase our
- 2 -
Celebrities, and 2) to raise money to show that the Republican
Party is not in a fat-cat situation with its "$10 million
slush" fund. Carruthers was opposed to anything that smacks
of a telethon because there is such a mess in terms of
scheduling. As an alternative, Bob suggested a one hour
"Ed Sullivan" type event -- that is, controlled and organized.
Carruthers agreed saying that the show should be one hour
and done on tape. Chapin will come back to Haldeman with a
decision memorandum on whether to do a one hour television
show. Included in the decision memorandum should be the
reference to Bob Wood of CBS who suggested the availability
of the Sunday night before the Convention at 9 or 10 p.m.
The total cost would be $500-600,000 including $200,000 in
time costs and $300-400,000 in production.
Bob emphasized that the financial pitch on the telethon
should be for funds under $10 and emphasized that we (the
Republicans) need the money. The possibility of using Jackie
Gleason as the Master of Ceremonies to locate the event in
Miami Beach was suggested and received favorably. The possi-
ble use of Gleason and Sinatra as well as someone like Sammy
Davis was suggested. Also, Bob Hope joking with Bing Crosby
was suggested. Before submitting the decision memorandum,
Chapin must check the one-half dozen top stars to find out
whether the telethon should even be considered. This is to
be in today by early afternoon.
Television and Problems at the Hall
Carruthers discussed four problems at the Hall. The first
was credentials for TV people. Bob suggested five different
color special passes for each session with time limits on
them. The second problem concerned floor cameras. Carruthers
will talk to Bill Timmons about increasing the number. Dick
Herman has been resisting. The third problem concerned the
lighting. Carruthers said additional money would be required
to raise the commitment by Herman from $5,000 to $12,500.
By adding this money, we are purchasing a degree of influence
over the lighting at the Convention. We do not have complete
control of the lighting in the Hall (a 100,000 decision and
mistake). Carruthers will just have to continue negotiating
with the networks. Carruthers said the fourth problem was
TV coverage of outside activities. He said the nets won't
cover some events such as the Youth event on Tuesday night
- 3 -
that we might want covered. Bob suggested that we obtain
a mobile unit which Carruthers estimated would cost
between $30-40,000. Bob suggested that Chapin contact
Clem Stone, who is building a mobile unit, and see if
something could be worked out.
Democrats for the President
Bill Timmons arrived and Chapin asked what the Democratic
event in Philadelphia was. Bob said that nothing was set
and that it was merely offered as a possibility SO that
Mayor Rizzo could hold a rally in Philadelphia instead
of having to appear before the Republican Convention.
Another possibility that Bob mentioned was to have all
the Democrats for the President meet at Connally's home
in Texas and have a remote TV pickup there. Bob agreed
to call Connally to review Democrats for the President
participation at the Convention. In particular, Bob was
going to check on Rizzo, Floyd McKissick and Charlton
Heston with Connally. Connally would definitely run this
entire Democrats for the President event. Bob suggested
that all the Democrats for the President might want to be
on one plane, arrive for 20 minutes at the Convention with
Connally and then depart. Chapin asked whether the Demo-
crats for the President would be doing any press conferences
?
and Bob said he would check with Connally.
Idid?
Convention Program
Concerning the recommended program, the attached sheet which
all had at the meeting was revised. Monday night remains
the same, that is, a First Lady night. Tuesday night is
changed so that the nomination, balloting and demonstration
for President can occur. Then there is the possibility
that the President will go to the Youth Rally between 9:30
and 10 p.m. Tuesday night. This information is to be kept
in the strictest confidence. Bob told the group with special
emphasis towards Timmons that if the possible Presidential
participation in the Youth Rally leaked to anyone, it would
not happen. At the Youth Rally it was decided that just
hand-held lights and informal camera arrangements would be
- 4 -
made. Julie and Tricia would be used as a front and
Carruthers will get into the Youth Rally format on a very
low key basis. The second event on Tuesday night will be
the Democrats for Nixon, with prime time for Connally at
10 or 10:30. Wednesday night will include the "Nixon,
the Man" film, the Vice Presidential nomination, balloting
and demonstration.
Vice President's Role
The Vice Presidential acceptance speech may lead to a Vice
Presidential introduction of the President, followed by
the President's acceptance speech. Bob will check with
the President as to whether the Vice President should intro-
duce
him. ( wow ( set- UP to do
Eisenhower Participation
Chapin advised Bob that Mamie Eisenhower will not attend
the Convention. Instead, a videotape will be prepared by
Carruthers. David Eisenhower's participation is not
important according to Bob, but Chapin will submit a
decision memorandum on whether David Eisenhower should
introduce the videotape of Mamie.
Convention Rules Changes
Concerning the July 24 memorandum from Bill Timmons regarding
all the rules changes, that matter was postponed with Bob
emphasizing to Timmons that a much larger group would have
to get together and that Bob would be merely an observer
rather than a participant.
Seconding Speeches
Concerning the seconding speeches for the President, it was
agreed that either 15 at 40 seconds each or 10 at a longer
time segment could be done SO long as the limit of ten
minutes was adhered to. Bob approved the concept of several
seconding speeches but not the particular details. He asked
dodn't
5
askl
Not
Chapin to have the writers prepare possible statements by
all the seconders. Bob mentioned that the Mexican-American
seconder should speak in Spanish as the Italian ethnic
should speak in Italian. Asked whether Wally Hickel should
second the President, Bill Timmons pointed out that he was
a delegate on the floor from Alaska. Bob approved Hickel
seconding the President if he were correctly scripted.
Chapin was to check Stans on getting to Hickel.
Me-
Timmons
Biel
Ann Armstrong's Role
Tell
Concerning Ann Armstrong's role, it was noted that although
Dole should bring the gavel down opening the Convention on
Monday morning, Ann Armstrong should be the person presiding
on Monday evening. She should also handle many of the "non-
substantive" aspects of the Convention.
Nomination of the Vice President
Bill Timmons will meet with Roy Goodearle and advise him
that the program has been set and that the suggested people
at this time are the young Mayor, possibly Chaffee, and a
third person as yet undecided. Bob said the seconders should
not be Javits or Percy.
Goldwater's Role
Concerning Goldwater's role, all agreed that he must be on
the program. It was finally agreed that Goldwater might be
the one to introduce Connally and the Democrats for Nixon
with a sort of funny line about the difference between now
and 1964. Also, it was noted that Alf Landon should be
invited to the Convention and placed in a high visibility
box. The point is to emphasize the difference between the
Republicans who treat a former candidate well and the Demo-
crats who screwed Johnson.
Introducer of the President
Bob agreed to check with the President as to who the intro-
ducer of the President should be as well as the introducer
of the Vice President should be.
- 6 -
Miscellaneous
1) Paul Keyes - He should not be behind the Platform as
Chapin at one time suggested. Instead, he should
probably be at Miami Beach writing quips that can be
fed to various people during the Convention.
2) Bill Timmons will have a plan of alternate program-
ming, press conferences and caucus teams.
3) Timmons is having a problem with Ehrlichman and Rose
regarding a list of spokesmen at the Platform but
believes they can resolve the matter.
4) Reagan should not be the introducer of the President
because he is Temporary Chairman.
5) Rockefeller will nominate the President and he is
locked.
6) Bob said that Ed Brooks should not be the Moderator
as that would be too obvious, but he should have a
role in the panel of keynoters.
7) Concerning Dick Lugar, Bob mentioned that he should
probably be included in the panel.
8) Concerning Governor Evans, there was general agree-
ment that he might be useful because he will read
a script given to him.
9) Bob noted that Bush cannot be used. Neither can
Red Blount per Haldeman and Bob jabbed at Timmons
for making such a stupid suggestion.
10) When Timmons mentioned that there were very few
ethnics and women, Bob suggested that Timmons work
directly with Balzano and Franklin to get this worked
out.
11) Concerning the Heritage Gala on Sunday night, Bob
suggested that Mrs. Nixon attend while the girls
do the regular Gala.
RECOMMENDED PROGRAM
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
P.M.: Reagan/Keynote/
RN Nomination
Nixon Film
Film
Balloting
Demonstration
VP Nomination
PN Tribute with
Balloting
Film
President to Youth
Demonstration
Rally (just use
VP Acceptance Speech
hand lights, etc.)
Use Julie & Tricia
VP Introduces RN
as front.
Carruthers into their
RN Acceptance Speech
format.
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 18, 1972
2:00 p.m.
MEMORANDUM FOR:
H. R. HALDEMAN
FROM:
DWIGHT L. CHAPIN
The following is a status report on the planning for the
Republican National Convention. It has been run past
Bill Timmons. He is in agreement with the information contained
herein unless otherwise indicated.
In a memorandum which I received from Gordon Strachan on
June 28, he stated that you would like a report that incorporates
a review of where we stand on the celebrities, the selection of
nominators/keynoters, advertising materials at the Convention
Hall, design and layout of the Hall, as well as information on
the TV appearance of the Convention.
While we are a long way down the road in terms of preparing
for the Convention there is still quite a lot to be done and many
of our plans are tentative. We are concentrating on obtaining
celebrities, getting approval on speakers and buttoning up the
alternate activities to what will be taking place at the podium
during the actual Convention hours.
Attached to this memorandum you will find the following:
Tab A -
Outline of Convention activity.
Tab B -
Podium diagram and renderings.
Tab C -
Floor plan, camera and Presidential box locations.
Tab D -
Art work for the supporting pillars, showing the
support columns with a shield and American and
State flags drooped around them; Renderings for
the rear of the auditorium and also for the podium;
Rendering of the State stanchions.
Tab E -
Rough outline for the Keynote Address.
Tab F - Celebrity Participation/Overall Celebrity List.
2
DECORATIONS IN THE HALL
As contrasted to the Democratic Convention, our podium will not
be blue, but rather an off-white. The off-white will be set off
against a blue carpet. You will recall that the Democrats had a
red carpet. Our chairs will be what is called a rust beige. It is
felt that this chair (we have to use these chairs) will look best
against the blue carpet. Changing the carpet to a blue will also
help give us an entirely different look from that which the Democrats
had.
Our decorations are all red, white and blue. We will have a very
patriotic look. As you can see from Tab D, we will be using
fed, white and blue stripes and the patriotic shield. We will not be
using the half flag in any of our decorations. (The half flag will
appear on our program, on the identification badges and on the
Convention tickets.) We will take care in not overdecorating our
Hall so as to give too slick of an appearance. As plans presently
stand, our Convention should look much livelier than the Democrats,
much cleaner, and as stated should have a star spangled feel.
We have not decided on what, if anything, should be mounted on the
podium. As you will recall, the Democrats used the United States
seal with the words, "Democratic National Convention", around it.
Our plan had been to use the United States seal but in light of the
Democratic Convention, we have dropped the thought. We are having
suggestions drawn up for the podium and they are to be in by the
end of the week. Once they are in we will submit our recommendations
to you.
At Tab D you will find a drawing of the State stanchions. These
will be three-sided triangular looking stanchions on poles. One side
will be red, the other white and the third blue. The printing will be
dark blue with a white outline around each letter to set it off.
PROGRAM - GENERAL
1.
We want to insure our program is well-timed and moves
smoothly. However, we have built in some musical interludes
and additional time in key sections, trying to anticipate commercial
breaks, to direct the attention of the networks from the Hall to
perhaps a hotel in order to witness an arrival or departure of
the First Family or a VIP.
3
2.
We want to insure that the delegates do not start complaining
because they feel they are only sitting in an audience and are not
active participants in a political convention. We also want to
stay clear of any criticism of this type from the networks. There
is a compromise to be made here and it must be made in
favor of television and we all realize this. However, we have
been cautioned not to make our operation too slick and so
television-oriented that it comes off as the Andy Williams
Show VS. having some look of a nominating convention.
3.
We have three films. The films on Nixon, the Man and the
Nixon Years will each run 14 minutes and 10 seconds. This
has been done so they can be used later during the campaign
in 15 minute segments. The film on Mrs. Nixon will run
9 minutes and 10 seconds.
4.
We want to try and determine some controversial things
which can take place on the floor in order to give our Convention
some look of legitimacy. It is my understanding that Timmons
has forwarded a memo to you on possible floor fights. It is
still too early to pinpoint opportunities here.
5.
It is our feeling that we should try as hard as possible to
keep our delegates looking like people and not clowns. We
realize a carnival atmosphere is probably ideal on the night
of nomination and that is the night that we will go all out with
our demonstrations and biggest show of enthusiasm. (Needless
to say, the President's appearance on Wednesday night will top
anything that we would build on Tuesday night.)
6.
Our alternates are younger than our delegates and, therefore,
we are going to try and seat some alternates in the delegate
section where there are empty delegate seats. This is going
to have to be worked out on a State by State basis, but we're
good
hopeful that we can get some young alternates placed in the
various delegations periodically. We will, also, put in our
fact sheets the details and statistics on the alternates as well
as the delegates. This should help to lower our overall age
and help with the other statistics in addition.
7.
It has been decided that we should use balloons on one event
only, the occasion when the votes are cast which puts the
agree
President over the top.
4
8.
The Invocation will always come after the National Anthem.
Carruthers, Goode and I had favored having the Invocation at
the start to get it out of the way so that the music would start
building and we would not have to drop down with a lull for the
Invocation. Bob Flanigan overrode us on this so the Invocation
will come after the National Anthem. Timmons is in agreement
with Flanigan.
9.
The present plan is to have Governor Askew introduced by
Chairman Dole or by Co-Chairman Armstrong in order to
give a welcoming. He has agreed to submit a text for our
approval.
SPECIFIC PROGRAM
(Tab A) Gurney
1.
MONDAY
a. You will note the welcome by the Governor, the welcome
by the Mayor, the greetings from the Republican Party
of Florida, the address by Gurney and the address by
Dole all take place Monday morning. We evidently
cannot cut any of these people out of the program,
although we have been trying. We have moved many of
the people who would normally appear in evening sessions
to morning sessions, and we have cut the length of their
speeches to practically nothing. Our plan will be to go
ahead and do this protocol type stuff, but plan to program
the television for outside the Hall.
b.
We have a Salute to Dwight Eisenhower planned to take
place at the end of the first session. We hope that Mamie
will be present in order to receive a gift from the
Convention. (She would like a tree.) If Mamie cannot be
there to appear in person, then we hope to have her do a
video-tape which we can run on our multi-screen setup.
David and Julie will be present in the Presidential box.
We had wanted David to participate but that is impossible due
to Pentagon regulations. (We think it would be acceptable
for David to escort his grandmother to the podium).
We have talked about two people to speak about Eisenhower.
One is Lowell Thomas and the other is Bill Rogers who was
a member of Eisenhower's Cabinet. Our thought here is
5
consult with Mrs. Eisenhowe r through Julie and see
whether she prefers Mr. Thomas or Secretary Rogers.
Tex McCrary says Billy Graham was a great friend
of the Eisenhowers and he would be much better than
Rogers or Thomas. We could use Graham via the
Eisenhower hook.
We will also have Julie check to see whether or not
Mamie might reconsider and come to the Convention.
2.
MONDAY EVENING
a.
The main news event for Monday evening is a
combination Reagan/keynote. The present idea is to
have Reagan, as Temporary Chairman, make his speech.
Immediately afterwards there would be a musical interlude
so that the networks would have a chance to get in their
commercials. Reagan would then introduce the film on
the Nixon Years. Immediately after the film, Reagan
would introduce Brooke who would list our accomplishments
and then introduce Mayor Lugar who would launch an
attack against McGovern. This would be issue-oriented.
We would then have our last speaker, a 21-year old
woman legislator from South Carolina, introduced by
Reagan. (We are checking out her qualifications
for this role presently. If she will not work, we will have
to consider another woman.) The woman will offer an
invitation to Democrats and Independents to join the
Republican Party.
Ray Price's rough outline for the Keynote is attached
at Tab E. We should note at the present time that
ABC will be cutting in with their live programming
during the middle of the Keynote. There's just not
much we can do about this. Tex feels Mayor Lugar
would be a better prime Keynote figure than Reagan. He
worries about Reagan paying no taxes and his popularity
in California.
b.
We debated the idea of having a State delegation ask
for recognition from the floor and have them offer a
Resolution to the Convention inviting Democrats to join
the Republican Party. This should be a spontaneous thing
6
which the networks are not anticipating. The Resolution
could then be seconded by two or three States and then
passed by a voice roll call. This gives us a chance to
use some ethnic types in terms of issuing the invitation
to the Democrats. It could take place immediately ahead
of the Tribute to Mrs. Nixon or could be the next day.
C.
The Salute to the First Lady will be the color event
of the evening. Once the Keynote is finished and there
is a musical interlude, we will have Ronald Reagan intro-
ducing Jimmy Stewart who will proceed live from the
podium and then switch to film with the Tribute to the
First Lady.
At the conclusion of the film we ho pe that Mrs. Nixon
will come to the podium and we will have a demonstration
for her. Once the demonstration concludes, it is
anticipated that she may say a few words and then once
again we expect a small demonstration. It is suggested
Tricia and Julie join her toward the end of the last
demonstration for the Benediction.
3.
TUESDAY EVENING
a.
In the Convention Programming Committee there was
virtual agreement that we should let Tuesday night be
our New Year's Eve. Everyone knows what happens at
12:00 on New Year's Eve and there is no reason why there
should not be a celebration for the President when he is
nominated, including the use of balloons, noisemakers
and everything else. This is a great chance for us to show our
enthusiasm. It will be contrasted to the Democratic
Convention, but so what? The question becomes
when the main demonstration should take place. There are
three possible times to have it. The first would be
immediately after the President is nominated. The second
would be as soon as he goes over the top and gets the
necessary votes. The third would be at the end of the
balloting when the Chairman announces the talley. Timmons
favors doing the demonstration immediately after the
President's name is put in nomination by Rockefeller.
Several of us prefer to do it as soon as the President goes
over the top. One thing that we feel is important is to go
7
right off the drama of the nomination speech and
after having the chair gavel the Convention into order
so as to calm down any demonstrations, go to the seconding
speeches. These seconding speeches will take place
from the various State delegations around the Hall. It
should be most effective and should tie in dramatically
with the actual nominating speech. There will be many
demonstrations as each State which is selected gets a
chance to offer a seconding speech. We, therefore, contend
that it would be more dramatic to have the place break
into absolute bedlam during the roll call when they
reach the point that the President goes over the top. On
the attached program (Tab A) it would be item #113.
If the President plans to go to the Hall Tuesday evening,
then perhaps we should consider having the demonstration
take place immediately after the nominating speech sothat
we can control the length of it and have it out of the way
and run a tighter ship. The other alternative is to put
it at the very end so that the President could arrive during
the time that they are having the major demonstration.
In any case, this is an unresolved question.
4.
WEDNESDAY EVENING
a.
We have not gotten into detail on Wednesday evening.
One thought would be that perhaps we should have
Goldwater introduce the Vice President. Goldwater's
got to be used at some point in this Convention and
has not been so far.
b.
It was my understanding from you that you wanted us
to consider using the Vice President as the introducer
for the President. On the other hand, I hear rumors that
it is now supposed to be Reagan. In any case Bill and I
need to get this clarified. We realize it's a decision that
the President will want to make himself.
TELEVISION VIEWERS' IMPRESSION OF OUR CONVENTION
Our Convention will differ significantly from the Democrats since
basically we are putting on a show while they let television cameras
in to cover what they considered to be the democratic process in
operation within their Party.
8
We will have a smart, clean appeal to a traditional event
with our Convention.
Our posture from the podium should be to run a well-organized
Convention and to get our business done in the briefest amount
of time. We should concentrate on exploring the issues and
building the President.
Our danger will be to run a slick Convention and railroad it too
quickly. We cannot have it 100% Richard Nixon oriented. Our
goal must be to orient the Convention to the viewer, playing up
both the President and the issues. We must look as though we
are fully exploring all the issues. To the viewer, our speakers
will be attractive people. We need to realize that we do not have
the minority representation which the Democrats had and this will
probably be brought home loud and clear to the viewing audience
by the commentators. On the other hand we realize that our speakers
must project to the television audience a warmth, friendliness,
sense of humor and a dedication to the President, what he has
accomplished, the issues and lastly, to look to the future. For
the most part the people working on the program feel that the
Democrats were very persuasive with the spokesmen they used.
Our spokesmen are not going to be defensive. They will refrain
from being arrogant in the slightest and will show that the
President represents the thinking of the majority of this country.
Just precisely how we accomplish all of this is still being determined--
and scripted.
A problem that we should be alert to is that the viewer at home is
going to be affected by anchormen, floor commentators who will be
heated up basically because they will not have the opportunity for
exposure and comment which they were privileged to give during
the long, drawn-out Democratic Convention. This is a fact of
life and we must expect to get some heat from it.
To the TV audience we will be short one basic ingredient. That is
drama. Obviously, I do not know what the President has on his
mind, if anything, which can help us with this problem. However,
we will supply ideas and any unique twists which we can come up
with regarding the President's activities as linked to the Convention
and on the activities of the First Family. We must be careful of
the danger of having our traumatic events appear staged and not legitimate.
To come up with a phony event may be the most dangerous step we
could make.
9
We still do not have the theme for our Convention. The closest
that we have come is to play off of the positive approach of this
Administration, offering an accounting to the people. Not only
would we offer an accounting, but we would also look to the future.
The Presidency is a stewardship and the President, using the
vehicle of the Party, is reporting on his stewardship, on the
trust that the American people have put in him. Realizing people
will say, "What have you done for me lately" or "What will you
do tomorrow", the President must speak to the future.
Therefore, our theme must tie to issues and to goals. We must
be careful never to subordinate the issues throughout our Convention.
Any time that we can hypo an important issue so that we register
it with the viewer at home, we should do SO.
In addition to the issues, our theme should set a tribute to the
President. Testimonials throughout the Convention geared to
build the President's credibility and the trust the public should
have in him are most important.
10
RNC CONVENTION -- FORMER SECRETARY JOHN CONNALLY
Connally's name keeps coming up as the discussion on the
RNC Convention continues. The following are some of the
suggestions which have been made for using Connally which you
may wish to consider or perhaps discuss with the President.
1.
Monday - August 21 -- If Connally is coming to the Convention
this would be a good date for him to arrive. If he arrived at
Miami Airport in the afternoon of the first day's proceedings,
we could get a good newsclip which could then be suitable for
the evening news. Right now we have no hard news except for
whatever statement Bob Dole makes that can play during the
evening news segments. It is very doubtful that the Tribute
to General Eisenhower would play heavily.
2.
Tuesday Evening -- After the film, Connally could ask for
permission to address the Republican National Convention as
a Democrat. He could bring with him two or three other
people representing labor, Mexican-Americans, etc., who are all
Democrats and who would also like to address the Republican
National Convention. As Democrats they address the
Convention and explain why they are for the President. Connally
would be charged with running this segment of the program.
After its conclusion we would then move into the nomination
of the President.
3.
Wednesday Night -- Immediately after the Vice President has
been nominated by the Convention but prior to his arriving
at the Hall, Connally could request permission to address the
Convention and use the same format that's mentioned above
in item #2.
4.
A very dramatic move might be to have Connally either
address or introduce the Vice President for his speech.
The Vice President could go on and introduce the President
after his own speech. The other obvious alternative would be
to have the Vice President give his acceptance speech and
then have Connally introduce the President.
I feel that items #2 and #3 may have the most legitimacy and pulling
power as far as our trying to reach Democrats. Obviously, the
people that Connally asks to appear with him will be very important
and they should be recognized Democrats with substantial constituencies.
DEX TO GORDON STRACHAN FOR DWIGHT CHAPIN
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 13, 1972
MEMORANDUM FOR:
DWIGHT CHAPIN
FROM:
H. R. HALDEMAN
H
RE:
Convention Planning
The Convention plan should include a segment for
brief speeches -- by Democrats and Independents
by invitation of the Convention management. These
possibly John Connally, some Independents, vonth
Governors, Senators, etc., who will make the
decided to support President Nixon's reelection
standing job he has done, because of his trip to Chins
becausediejcan't take McGovern, etc.
This should include the maximum number of Democrate
one Chicano, and only one Black, some Italians and
or two youth, but it should not go hog-wild on youth.
done as a solid hour in order to get impact.
If we do a telethon, we should include some Democrate
We might even want to consider a prominent Democrat for
seconding speech.
Don't let this idea get lost.
REVISED #4 - June 22, 1972
1972 REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION
will / Memo.
FAGE 1
Miami Beach, Florida
MONDAY, AUGUST 21, 1972
FIRST SESSION
THEME: Philosophy - What the Republican Party Stands For
TIME
SUBJECT
RNC SPEAKER
PERSONALITIES
MULTI-MEDIA
MUSIC
1. 12:30-1:00 PM Delegates, Alternates
None
As needed
A light and slide accompani-
(30 minutes) and Guest Assemble
ment to the music.
Music selected
should be upbeat
and bright.
The music and visuals cease just prior to the
Convention being called to order by Bob Dole.
On the screen, we project the insignia of the
Republican National Convention.
2.
1:00-1:01 PM
Convention Called
Bob Dole
None
As above
None
(1 minute)
To Order
3.
1:01-1:02 PM
Introuction of
Bob Dole
None
As above
As needed
(1 minute)
MEX
Amer.
4.
1:02-1:05
Introduction of Unit
Vicki Carr
Special persona-
With the Introduction and
As performed by
(3 minutes)
and Presentation of
Group
lity introduces
Presentation of Colors, we
Group.
Colors by Special
the Presentation
can project an exciting display
Personality.
of Colors.
of the American Flag by using
different pictures of Ameri-
can people with the Flag
5. 1:05-1:08 PM
Introduction of
None
Special persona-
As needed in line with the
None
(3 minutes)
Pledge of Allegiance
lity introduces
above -- keep simple.
young person like
I bnow Shis one shis to but really the with lest.
the winner of the
aero I don't understand
National High
School Oratory
is se the "special,
Contest to lead
the Convention
or the "yrug person or The "sice
in the Pledge of
froms-
Allegiance.
performent or what ?
6. 1:08-1:11 PM
Introduction of
Vicki Carr
Special personality
As needed in line with the
"Star Spongled
(3 minutes)
Individual and
introduces a star
above -- keep simple
Banner"
National Anthem
Vicki Carr
performer who leads
the Convention in
This is, to say The Crast, not
the singing of the
National Anthem.
very clear