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1969 Outbound From APB Part 4: Butterfield – Chron Oct 1969 [9 of 10]
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1969 Outbound From APB Part 4: Butterfield – Chron Oct 1969 [9 of 10]
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White House Staff Member and Office Files (Nixon Administration)
Alexander P. Butterfield's Files
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October 31, 1969
DAILY NEWS PLAN CRITIQUE
and
MEDIA MONITORING REPORT
...as of 11:15 A.M. daily,
except Sat. and Sun.
covers past 30-hour period
Tues. thru Fri., and past
78-hour period on Mon.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
I. DAILY NEWS PLAN CRITIQUE
A.
Events programmed to be major White House news items
Thursday, each followed by reviews of coverage received.
1. HERITAGE GROUP MEETING
a. Newspapers:
Received front page play, along with photo, in
most major national newspapers. Reason for
prime play was due to President's statement
in support of Vice President Agnew. Moved on
"A" wire by AP, UPI.
b. Television:
Received coverage on all network news shows,
either film or comment.
ABC
1:30 min.
Film of President's statement
and the Vice President's remarks
followed by comment by Bill Gill.
NBC
10 sec.
Huntley report saying the President
supports Vice President Agnew.
CBS
20 sec.
Cronkite comment on the President's
remark that Vice President Agnew
is doing great job.
2. CONSUMER AFFAIRS MEETING
a. Newspapers:
"Consumer Bill of Rights"
...
Received front page and
prime placement on major national newspapers. Story
moved on AP, UPI national wires.
b. Television:
ABC
15 sec.
Smith comment on "Consumer Bill
of Rights".
NBC
2:30 min.
Film of Virginia Knauer briefing with
Dan Rather comment. This was
followed by film of criticism by
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
Ralph Nader and film of Betty Furness
suggesting stronger support for
Consumer Council
3. PRESIDENT'S COMMENT ON THE SUPREME COURT'S
DESEGREGATION DECISION
a. Newspapers:
The President's comment played as the #1 story in
major national papers. It played heavily toward the
President's vow to enforce the law while striving to
work to eliminate human problems. Moved by AP,
UPI.
b. Television:
This was the top story on all TV network news shows.
ABC
6 min.
Smith comment (1 min.) and a
Jarriel comment (1 min.)
emphasizing the President's
support and statement to enforce.
Then came a 4-min. follow-up of
school children and government
officials in Mississippi -- negative
comment was directed to the Court,
not to the President.
NBC
6:30 min.
Huntley comment: "The President
bowed to the inevitable. " Kaplow
film: "The President sounded like
a good lawyer who had lost his case"
The Court decision threatens the Admin-
istration's "southern strategy". All of
this followed by 4 minutes on Mississippi
reaction, with film of Senator Eastland
and school children.
CBS
4 min.
Cronkite comment: "The Administration
acted twice today, once cautiously --
then more positively with the White
House spokesman saying he may not
have been precise enough earlier."
This was followed by 1:30 min. film
2
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
of Att. Gen. Mitchell, 3:30 min.
film of Mississippi, Alabama and
Georgia children. plus Senator
Eastland and the NAACP Chairman.
4. OTHER WHITE HOUSE NEWS RELEASES
Received minor attention in national papers -- but were
included in the White House round-up stories.
B. The leading Administration news items were:
-- Ambassador Lodge's proposal for Secret talks at Paris
...
and its rejection. Received front page play in newspapers
and on network news show film.
-- Last week's rise in the number of deaths in Vietnam.
-- The President's campaigning in Morristown and
Hackensack. Too late for network television film
but was on CBS Morning News and NBC's Today Show.
-- Senate leadership refusal to discuss draft reform.
Received wide TV coverage on network TV. Film of
Rivers and Bolton. Played further back in national
newspapers.
Vice President Agnew's speech reaffirming "Snob"
statement. Too late for national TV, but story
received wide coverage on radio and in the national
newspapers.
C. The single leading Administration news item:
-- The President's statement on the Supreme Court
decision. Story received editorial television
coverage ranging from a good report by Howard K.
Smith on ABC to an unfavorable comment by Eric
Sevaried on CBS. (See Section II of this report.)
3
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
II. MEDIA MONITORING REPORT
A. Of 11 news publications and TV programs monitored regularly,*
one reported information in a manner justifying counter-action.
1. CBS Evening News -- Eric Sevaried let us have it with
both barrels. He was vindictive and anti-Administration.
in his comments re desegregation and the Court's decision.
Action: The monitor and Herb Klein's staff do not think
that we should undertake any form of counter action against
Sevaried or the network. They point out that they had
anticipated the tone of Sevaried's commentary and that
the time to have done something about it was prior to the
broadcast. Herb Klein did talk to John Ehrlichman about
the possibility of giving Sevaried a short backgrounder
yesterday afternoon, but I am told this morning that the
briefing was not held.
The near-verbatim commentary of Howard K. Smith on
ABC Evening News might be of interest in that it counter-
balances somewhat the Sevaried remarks:
Almost every headline today says the Court
ruling on desegregation was "a stinging sur-
prise to the Administration. " Well, there is
a story here that it was neither a surprise
nor a sting. It was calculated.
The operative fact about Mr. Nixon is that he
is almost powerless
elected with the
smallest plurality of the century
...
facing
a Congress run by Democrats. In that fix
the President must use ingenuity, and that
is what he did.
Back in August when the ABM vote was in
doubt, Senator Stennis of Mississippi
threatened to stay home because of school
problems there. That would have killed the
ABM. Therefore, the President said that
he would ease the school problem by asking
the Courts to delay desegregation. That
*NBC, ABC, CBS Evening News; Merv Griffin and Tonight Shows; CBS
Morning News; Today Show; NY Times; Washington Post; Time and News-
week Magazines
4
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
gained time, got Stennis to Washington,
passed the ABM issue by one vote -- and
incidentally, handed the onus of desegrega-
tion to the Courts.
Now the Court, as expected, says -- "Don't
delay; desegregate.' All, including Senators,
will see that the President must obey. The
outcome is a hit and a run: the schools will
desegregate and the ABM is passed ... and
all done without tactical error. When you
are batting with a matchstick, that's not bad.
I don't really know whether the story is true,
but it fits Attorney General Mitchell's famous
words to Rights leaders, "Watch what is done,
not what is said."
B. Results of counter and/or follow-up actions previously reported:
Not applicable for this report.
5
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chern
THE WHITE house
washington
October 31, 1969
MEMORANDUM FOR:
MR. HALDEMAN
FROM:
ALEXANDER P. BUTTERFIELD
RE:
A "Vietnam Veterans Mailing List"
We can put our hands immediately on the names and addresses of
1,330,000 Vietnam veterans. However, this figure dates only
from April of 1968. The names and addresses of those who left
the armed forces as Vietnam veterans prior to that date were not
logged on tape. Statistics follow:
Total Vietnam Veterans
Through Sep 30, '69
3,410,000
Names and Addresses
on Tape
1,130,000
Names and Addresses
Not Readily Available
2,280,000
Herb Klein believes that to use this list for mailings of our materials
would be extremely hazardous. There are always those veterans,
although relatively few in number, who are not in sympathy with our
Vietnam involvement, and it would be only a matter of time before our
mailing actions were brought to the attention of the press.
Fred Rhodes, Deputy Administrator at the VA (who, incidentally, is
completely trustworthy and with us "all the way"), generally agrees
with Herb. Fred points out that during the LBJ Administration the
VA gave the "veterans mailing list" to Senator Montoya who in turn
gave it to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). The DAV used the
list for political purposes and was caught at it by the press. A story
was about to be published uncovering all of the details
...
but at the
very last minute it was suppressed (for reasons best known only to
press officials). With that "close call" in mind the VA is now in the
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
process of deciding whether or not to release the list to the Red
Cross -- an action which seems legitimate but might lead, never-
theless, to adverse publicity.
I would guess that there would be minimum risk to our mailing a
copy of the speech only
...
for by this action we do not promote so
much as we inform.
I would appreciate some final guidance on this topic. Admittedly
the mailing would be the best, and probably the only, way to arouse
the veterans.
2
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chron
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 31, 1969
ADMINISTRATIVELY CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR:
MR. HALDEMAN
FROM:
ALEXANDER P. BUTTERFIELD
For whatever it might be worth to you and Peter -- and to the President --
Tom Evans expressed in confidence the following personal opinion of Dave
Maxwell (currently in the running for the directorship of the U.S. Selective
Service):
"Although strongly backed, I'm sure, by Hugh Scott --
and one who probably performed acceptably in his two
state posts -- he is definitely not a 'naturally loyal'
Nixon man. Furthermore, I had ample opportunity to
watch him during the campaign and he was generally
ineffective. "
Tom Evans suggests that we at least take a look at these 2 individuals as
possible candidates for the Hershey position:
Insler Clark(e) (?) -- Dean of Admissions at Yale
has been
there about 4 years
has a Masters degree in government
and another Masters in education
a veteran
Jim Hester -- President of New York University
...
an outstanding
academician and administrator
an ex-Marine
age 45.
cc: Peter Flanigan
ADMINISTRATIVELY CONFIDENTIAL
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chron
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 30, 1969
MEMORANDUM FOR:
MR. FLANIGAN
FROM:
ALEXANDER P. BUTTERFIELD
Perhaps now that I have a breathing spell I can put the gist of the
November 3rd Game Plan in a clear perspective
...
and outline
in more specific terms the projects on which you might be of
assistance.
1. It has been suggested - and all 9 of us on the "November 3rd
Game Plan Committee" believe that the idea is a good one **
that someone contact Mr. Russell Whitney McFall, formerly
with General Electric and Litton Industries and now President
and Board Chairman of the Western Union Telegraph Company,
and see if arrangements might be worked out whereby Western
Union agrees to widely circulate ads in newspapers and via
radio and TV
beginning now and leading right up to the
moment before the President's Monday evening address to
the nation. The ads would say, in effect, that for a mere
60¢ (or whatever the cost) "you can send a personal (50-word)
message to the President letting him know how you feel about
the November 3rd Vietnam speech
the Administration's
announced plan for peace
etc.
11
It would seem that the
Western Union Company would be amenable to such a plan
public service, profit, etc. In fact, the Company might con-
sider buying network time for some 60 seconds immediately
following the President's address and putting out their own
commercial at that time. Whatever plans might be worked
out should begin right away.
Do you know of a discrete way to handle this? We're
anxious, of course, to keep the White House out of
any such promotional gimmicks but the plan would
go far toward generating the barrage of wires and
letters we're looking for late Monday evening and
throughout the day on Tuesday.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
2.
Another favor we would ask of you is that you take whatever
opportunities you have, or can make, and quietly inform
known trusted business and industry leaders that the Novem-
ber 3rd talk will hopefully launch a visible revival of patriotism
in this country -- a show of unity and support behind the President
of such magnitude as to prove beyond any doubts (here and
abroad) that moratorium groups and other dissidents are a
small minority of the American citizenry. People throughout
the nation seem to want to fly the Flag from November 4-16,
to display automobile and porch lights during that same period,
and to do other such things to openly show their resentment
over the publicity being given to the "bug out" advocates. We
see no reason not to encourage this. Moreover, there are
outside moves to designate (unofficially) the week November 3-9
"American Unity Week" and the period November 10-16 "Honor
America Week". To the extent that we can do it from inside
the White House, we are encouraging this also. Finally,
the various veteran and patriotic organizations under the
leadership of Mr. Charles Moser (a Georgetown professor
who can be reached at the local telephone number 296-4588
although he may be moving his office today) are bringing in
thousands and thousands of people from the surrounding states
on Veterans Day, November 11th, to stage a massive patriotic
rally at the Washington Monument.
Of course, you may not feel that this information
sort of a calendar of events throughout the period
November 3-16 will mean anything to leaders of
business and industry, but the thought occurred to
some of us that via any one of a number of ways they,
too, might lend encouragement.
3.
The last item in our list of specifics concerns money. I have
been able to get enough financial support from Clem Stone,
through the courtesy of Tom Evans, to obtain office space in
Chicago and put together a working "central coordinating office"
and staff. Clem has agreed to further assistance but there is
some reluctance on the part of the Chicago committee members
to allow him to involve himself too heavily. I suppose their
point is that they don't mind accepting his generous offers but
they want to be certain that he does not jump in and run things.
As you may know, I had a 2-3 hour meeting with Ross Perot
over at the Naval Academy last Friday and have been on the
2
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
phone with him a number of times since. Ross has in mind
a gigantic plan which focusses on the eventual release of
U.S. prisoners of war and he does not want to be side-
tracked. I will say that he has kindly agreed to provide
some assistance for certain projects as long as I call him
first and spell them out to him over the telephone. But
the point is that he does not want to spend really large
sums of money until he gets the okay from Henry Kissinger
to proceed with his POW plan (the word from Kissinger to
come on or about November 5th). Because we are planning
a total of 3 full-page ads in 100 newspapers throughout the
country, we are in need of some guarantees of financial
support in the approximate amount of $300, 000.
After reading the foregoing paragraphs you will not gain much from a
review of the over-all Game Plan. However, I am attaching a copy - -
on loan -- for whatever additional information it may provide. (Several
good ideas have been added since this was typed.)
3
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
cheon
October 30, 1969
DAILY NEWS PLAN CRITIQUE
and
MEDIA MONITORING REPORT
as of 11:15 A.M. daily,
except Sat. and Sun.
...
covers past 30-hour period
Tues. thru Fri., and past
78-hour period on Mon.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
I.
DAILY NEWS PLAN CRITIQUE
A. Events programmed to be major White House news items
Wednesday, each followed by reviews of coverage received.
1. AFL/CIO EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING
a. Newspapers:
Received good coverage in national newspapers
playing first and second page stories. Photograph
played front page or prominently in national papers.
Stories and photo moved by AP and UPI.
b. Television:
CBS 30 sec. report of White House meeting and
film of Secretary Shultz briefing.
2. NEW JERSEY CAHILL RALLIES
a. Newspapers:
Received front page coverage in all Eastern news-
papers and reported widely in national newspapers.
Good photo play in Eastern papers. Photos and
stories moved by AP and UPI.
b. Television:
Story broke too late for network television; however,
it received coverage on the local 11:00 p.m. news
programs.
3. HOLTON RALLY
Because story broke too late for Tuesday evening network
television, it was included in Wednesday's network news
shows.
ABC
2 min.
Tom Jarriel Report. Film of
Roanoke Rally followed by Bill
Lawrence film recap of New
Jersey race.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
NBC
1:15 min.
Brinkley comment with film on
Roanoke Rally followed by 1:30
min. report on the Virginia race.
CBS
1:45 min.
Pierpoint Report and film from
Roanoke Rally.
4. OTHER WHITE HOUSE NEWS RELEASES
Received minor pick-up in national newspapers. Included
in White House news round-up stories. AP and UPI moved
on local and regional wires.
B. The leading Administration news items were:
-- Rogers interview re U.S. involvement in Laos.
Received wide television coverage and played against
film interview with Senator Fulbright. Played
front page of major national newspapers.
-- Egeberg interview regarding MSG and food additives.
Received moderate play.
--
Draft reform
...
Senator Edward Kennedy's com-
mittee vs. Nixon policy. Received moderate play.
C. The single leading Administration news item:
-- School integration and the Supreme Court decision
rejecting the Administration's proposal for delay.
2
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
II.
MEDIA MONITORING REPORT
A. Of 11 news publications and TV programs monitored regularly, *
none reported information in a manner justifying counter action.
(Although the Supreme Court decision re desegregation was
reported by NBC and ABC as a major and dramatic setback
for the Administration
"an obvious embarrassment", the
accounts were accurate and fair and do not warrant counter
action per se. However, Attorney General Mitchell has been
scheduled by Herb Klein's office to appear next Sunday on
"Meet the Press" and we plan to use this opportunity to maxi-
mum advantage.)
B. Results of counter and/or follow-up actions previously reported:
1. Newsweek Magazine -- Four of the letters to the editor
prepared by members of our (the RNC's) letter-writing
apparatus protesting Newsweek Magazine's feature article
entitled Nixon in Trouble" appear in this week's issue.
For your information they are attached hereto.
*NBC, ABC, CBS Evening News; Merv Griffin and Tonight Shows; CBS
Morning News; Today Show; NY Times; Washington Post; Time and News-
week Magazines
3
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
Nixon's Troubles
Newsweek
President Nixon clearly is not trying to
win any popularity contest. He made
some meaningful pledges to the Ameri-
can people during the 1968 campaign,
LETTERS
Nov
3RD
and he is fulfilling these commitments.
We are fortunate that he is not attempt-
ing to pacify the dissident elements with
volumes of costly, ineffective legislation.
President Nixon has never promised the
people any instant solutions. He inherited
an unpopular war, runaway inflation, an
oversize and unresponsive bureaucracy
and a deeply divided and disillusioned
public; problems of this magnitude can on-
ly be solved through firm but cautious
action, coupled with a responsible sense
of priorities.
EVAN WIGGINS
Florence, S.C.
Your article implying that the Presi-
an all-volunteer Army. Yet we, as col-
dent is in trouble is, I believe, a mis-
legians, know that the national security
reading of the current opinion of col-
will not allow for an instant elimination
legians in the U.S. For the first time in
of the draft.
our lifetimes, we have a national admin-
College students decry hypocrisy. This
istration whose actions-not just words-
is why we applaud the President's re-
clearly indicate a commitment to youth.
fusal to promise that which he cannot
President Nixon's recent cancellations
deliver, a major fault of the previous two
of the November and December draft
administrations.
calls are demonstrations of good faith
Youth is for Nixon.
toward fulfilling his campaign pledge of
ROBERT POLACK, Chairman
College Republican National Committee
Baton Rouge, La.
Your saucer-shallow cover story con-
Ho, ho, ho. So Mr. Nixon is in trouble
firms my suspicion: the press can find no
--only 62 per cent of the people approve.
fault with Nixon's evenhanded approach
But what a shame that George Meany,
to Vietnam, civil rights, campus unrest or
Coretta King and the editors of NEWS-
welfare. So you are reduced to criticizing
WEEK don't approve. The same goes for
him for not committing the bold, imagi-
their allies in the Republican Party-Clif-
native disasters that have characterized
ford Case, Charles Goodell, Jacob Javits
his predecessors and divided the country.
et al. Sixty-two per cent? Bring on Kevin
Best wishes to your NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Phillips and his "Emerging Republican
staffers who suffered hernias while strain-
Majority." Ho, ho, ho.
ing to find fault with the Administration.
DICK SMITH
PAUL WOMACK
Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Port Allen, La.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chron
October 29, 1969
DAILY NEWS PLAN CRITIQUE
and
MEDIA MONITORING REPORT
as of 11:15 A.M. daily,
except Sat. and Sun.
covers past 30 hour period
Tues. thru Fri., and past
78-hour period on Mon.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
I.
DAILY NEWS PLAN CRITIQUE
A. Events programmed to be major White House news items
Tuesday, each followed by reviews of coverage received.
1. LEADERSHIP MEETING
a. Newspapers:
Most newspapers reported quite prominently
the President's letter to Congress concerning
appropriations. Included were references to
the leadership meeting.
b. Television:
ABC and CBS reported briefly (30 sec.) on the
President's letter prodding Congress on appro-
priations and expressing concern over the
Administration's ability to meet the deadline
for the '71 budget. NBC reported (2 min.) the
President's letter and included film of Senator
Scott and Congressman Ford. Report ended
with Ford's comment cautioning against specu-
lation on the context of the President's coming
November 3rd speech.
2. PRESIDENTIAL VISIT TO VIRGINIA
a. Newspapers:
Today's local morning papers carried the story
prominently, while the out of town papers treated
it in wrap-up stories of the President's daily
activities.
b. Television:
ABC and CBS reported briefly on the President's
Roanoke visit. ABC followed with a second report
(1:30 min.) on the Virginia Gubernatorial race and
another commentary (2 min.) on the possible political
benefits from the President's decision to campaign
for Virginia and New Jersey gubernatorial candidates.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
B. The leading Administration news items were:
-- The Vice President's faux pas re the Patrick Henry
quote. CBS/TV reported this in a 30 sec. com-
mentary.
-- Egeberg and Gardner press conference on Health
Task Force Report. Reported in Washington, D.C.
area papers and on CBS/TV for 15 secs.
-- Secretary Shultz's testimony re "the Philadelphia
Plan" before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee.
Received light treatment in all newspapers. Secre-
tary Shultz was interviewed on ABC for 1 min.
following his testimony.
-- Mrs. Eisenhower's visit to the Washington Inter-
national Horse Show. Received brief mention in
local social pages.
C. The single leading news item:
-- Increased conflict in Lebanon and Mid-East
with the story of Brandt trying to establish closer
ties with Eastern Europe, and possibly Fulbright's
assailing our "clandestine war" in Laos running a
close second. The latter of these (re Fulbright)
will get bigger play today and tonight.
II. MEDIA MONITORING REPORT
A. Of 11 news publications and TV programs monitored regularly,*
none reported information in a manner justifying counter action.
B. Results of counter and/or follow-up actions previously reported:
1. The TONIGHT Show -- The job Herb Klein did on the TONIGHT
Show was described to me by the program monitor, and several
others, as really outstanding. He was allowed to speak almost
without interruption for 30 minutes, and in a very pleasant and
natural manner emphasized our line re all key issues of the
moment
e.g. Haynsworth, working President, Vietnam
and the harmful aspects of dissent, youthful White House Staff,
etc.
*NBC, ABC, CBS Evening News; Merv Griffin and Tonight Shows; CBS
Morning News; Today Show; NY Times; Washington Post; Time and News-
week Magazines
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chun
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 28, 1969
MEMORANDUM FOR:
MR. HALDEMAN
X
FROM:
ALEXANDER P. BUTTERFIELD
RE:
Appointment Schedule
I have the following meetings scheduled for tomorrow -- Wednesday,
October 29th:
10:00
Meeting in the Roosevelt Room
5:00
Follow- up Meeting in Herb Klein's office re Nov 3rd Speech
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 28, 1969
MEMORANDUM FOR:
Mr. Harry Dent
Mr. Peter Flanigan
Mr. Jim Keogh
Dr. Henry Kissinger
Mr. Herb Klein
Mr. Jeb Magruder
Mr. Lyn Nofziger
Mr. Bill Safire
Mr. Charles West
Mr. Jim Allison
Mr. Dick Garbett
FROM:
Alexander P. Butterfield
Final approval has been given to the November 3rd Game Plan.
I have extracted those action items for which you are being held
responsible, and would appreciate a telephone report by 5:00 p.m.
today as to the degree of completion of each. I realize that you
will have had very little time, if any, to move ahead with these
tasks; but I must have these initial status reports compiled and
ready for the President prior to our 6:30 p.m. departure for
Roanoke. Many thanks.
Attachment
Extract - Nov 3rd
Game Plan
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
2. Harry Dent -
a. Work out an arrangement whereby both Holton and Cahill
enthusiastically support the President's peace plan
(crusade) during their November 3rd TV appearances.
b. Check with John Ehrlichman and/or Bud Krogh and
insure that arrangements are made for a senior
official at the Justice Department to hold a large
press conference and there expose the backgrounds
of many of the known instigators and leaders of the
planned November 13-15 marches.
C. Arrange a Gallup Poll on the impact of the speech and
its reception
for the period immediately after
November 3rd
and for publication, if possible,
November 12 or 13.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
6.
Peter Flanigan -
Look carefully at business community leaders and
Business Council members, especially in New York
and east of Chicago, to see who among them might
be helpful in leading segments of our planned national
"Support the President" campaign. Make contacts
and devise a list of names of those who will help,
and/or mobilize with others.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
8. Jim Keogh -
a. Prepare one-liners and a one-page fact sheet
to
be distributed to key Congressmen, the central
coordinating office, all State Governors, business
leaders, veteran and patriotic organizations, etc.
b. Prepare numerous short, punchy, factual rebuttals
to the standard "get out now" line, and distribute
them to Herb Klein, Lyn Nofziger, and Ron Ziegler.
c. Include in the President's Veterans Day message
some of the salient points to be made on Novem-
ber 3rd, and some mention of his (and America's)
deep concern for U.S. POW's.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
7. Henry Kissinger -
a. Prepare well in advance of the November 3rd speech
a sufficient quantity of background materials and
statistical data to support the content of the President's
speech. This material must go to Herb Klein, Lyn
Nofziger, and Ron Ziegler as early as is feasible.
b. Personally telephone Governors Reagan and Rockefeller
and explain importance of each supporting the President
and doing all possible to rally the citizens of his State
to visibly demonstrate their support.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
12. Herb Klein -
a. Review newspapers throughout the country and
designate in an appropriate order the 100 which
by their advertisements, editorials, columns,
etc. will provide the greatest impact on the
nation.
b. Make arrangements now for a joint press confer-
ence, with Laird and Rogers participating, on
November 5th or 6th.
c. Make arrangements for a televised panel discus-
sion to be held on the night of the President's
talk
immediately after the talk. Participants
should be well chosen
perhaps John P. Roche,
the columnist who supported the President on ABM
and who is supporting the President on Vietnam;
Leo Chern; Paul Douglas; Frank Borman; John
Glenn, etc.
'd. Make contacts now for an appropriate article in a
national magazine
to be published if at all
possible closely on the heels of the President's
November 3rd talk. (Article to feature and explain
salient points of the President's plan for peace.)
e. Work out a plan whereby members of the press will
be sent for comment to such persons as HHH, Dean
Acheson, Nelson Rockefeller, etc. immediately
after the President's talk. (Evening of November 3rd
and next day.)
f.
Look into the possibility of getting Acheson and Rusk
to appear on nationwide TV
on either Sunday (Novem-
ber 9) or during one of the periods November 4-6 or
November 12-14.
g. Set up a schedule or plan for how we might get continual
follow-up stories out to the press telling of the "fantastic
loads of mail" pouring into the WH every hour "all
letters and wires enthusiastically supporting the
President" etc.
h. Review list of known entertainers (the younger the
better) who might support our campaign by public
statements and/or appearances.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
i.
During the period November 4-16, encourage and
arrange, to the extent possible, heavy speaking
schedules and TV appearances by key Administra-
tion officials.
j.
Plan to make the maximum use possible of time on
the TODAY Show -- scheduled for Washington, D.C.
during the first week of November.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
5. Jeb Magruder -
Alert our "wires and letters to the editors" apparatus to
the support-the-President effort scheduled to begin Novem-
ber 4th and run through the subsequent 12-day period.
Letter writers should be well briefed as to theme and
addressees.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
3. Lyn Nofziger -
a. Review the entire list of U.S. Representatives and
Senators and place beside each name a +, -, or ?
indicating our assessment of his or her willingness
to support now (before the speech) the President's
plan for achieving an honorable settlement in Vietnam.
b. Prepare two appropriate letters of support for the
President and his plan for peace in Vietnam -- letters
written in terms sufficiently broad to attract both
Findley and Tower. Without mentioning letters to
any Congressmen, line up support and plan to get at
least 250 House and 50 Senate signatures immediately
after the speech
for public announcement on
November 5th. This single action would go far
toward serving as proof positive, to the nation and the
world, that the American people are united behind
their President. (This might be given impetus by the
1967 statement by Frank Church and the Appeal signed
by 16 Senators.)
c. Prior to October 31st designate key Congressmen --
those who can attract the most attention -- to give
supporting talks on the floors of the House and Senate
and to keep it up through November 14th.
d. After getting a line on which Senators and Representatives
tend to sympathize with the "peace" theme of the planned
November 15th "March Against Death", arrange through
Bud Krogh for special private background briefings for
these Congressmen
by a senior Justice Dept. official.
(When confronted with the facts, some may lose sympathy
and throw more support our way.)
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
4. Bill Safire -
a. Prepare at least 2 full-page or half-page newspaper
advertisements to play up the "We Support the President's
Plan for Peace" theme.
b. Compile numerous actual remarks about the President by
foreign Chiefs of State to show Americans how foreigners
view him, and how extraordinarily well he's leading the nation.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
9. Charles West -
Prepare a list of all groups and organizations
which have officially or unofficially pledged their
support to back the President. Indicate under
each the name, address, and telephone number
of the "contact" representative.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
10. Jim Allison and Dick Garbett -
a. Prepare a skeleton supporting statement for Rog
Morton to issue from Hawaii immediately following
the President's talk.
b. Prepare a separate plan whereby all participants
and observers at the Western States GOP meeting
in Hawaii (November 3-5) demonstrate loud and
clearly their wholehearted support for the President's
Vietnam peace plan.
C. Plan to advertise support of the President's peace
plan in the October 31st issue of "Monday", and
set aside plenty of space to feature the salient
points of the President's November 3rd talk in the
November 7th and 14th issues of "Monday", and in
"The Republican", which goes to press November 20th.
d. Plan to print the President's entire speech -- in
booklet form, nicely done, about 10, 000-12, 000
in quantity -- to be distributed widely and appro-
priately by the RNC and its field resources. Give
special thought to the title of the booklet; it should
call clearly for unity ... a united America ... etc.
e. Prepare a plan whereby all participants and observers
at the Mid-west GOP meeting in Des Moines (Novem-
ber 13-15) demonstrate loud and clearly their whole-
hearted support for the President's Vietnam peace plan.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chron
October 28, 1969
DAILY NEWS PLAN CRITIQUE
and
MEDIA MONITORING REPORT
as of 11:15 A.M. daily,
except Sat. and Sun.
covers past 30-hour period
Tues. thru Fri., and past
78-hour period on Mon.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
I. DAILY NEWS PLAN CRITIQUE
A. Events programmed to be major White House news items
Monday, each followed by reviews of coverage received.
1. MEETING WITH DEAN ACHESON
a. Newspapers:
Item was not reported in east coast papers,
and the photo opportunity. was cancelled.
b. Television:
Meeting received no coverage on evening TV
networks.
2. MEETING WITH AMBASSADOR ROCA
a. Newspapers:
No coverage in east coast newspapers.
b. Television:
Unreported.
B. The leading Administration news items were:
-- The Pentagon's announcement of planned base
closings. This story ran above the fold in all
newspapers. Story emphasized closing of 307
bases affecting 65,000 jobs
...
with anticipated
budget savings of $600 million a year. It was
reported that the cuts were a result of the
President's orders to the Defense Depart-
ment for general reductions in expenditures.
Lead item on NBC/TV (3 minutes) and near
lead item on ABC and CBS (30 seconds each).
-- Secretary Laird answering questions before
Wisconsin student group. Played in local
newspapers only and on ABC/TV (1:45 min.).
C. The single leading news item:
-- Probably the Pentagon's announcement of base
closings
...
although this story given competi-
tion, especially on TV, by defense attorney
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
Kuntsler's story from Chicago concerning
possible release of POW names. (2:45 min.)
II.
MEDIA MONITORING REPORT
A. Of 11 news publications and TV programs monitored regularly,*
none reported information in a manner justifying counter action.
(David Susskind appeared on the TONIGHT Show but spend the
entire period of his interview talking about the mayoralty race
in New York. No anti-Administration comments.)
B. Results of counter and/or follow-up actions previously reported:
1. The TONIGHT Show -- As follow-up action in addition
to the 203 letters written one week and the 60 letters
written the following week, arrangements have been
made to put Herb Klein on the show tonight. Herb is
prepared to concentrate on our key issues
Haynsworth, Vietnam, etc.
2. WMAL Radio and TV -- You will recall that yesterday
I mentioned the consistently complimentary comments
and editorials heard on station WMAL
both radio
and TV, and the special Nixon enthusiasm generated
from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. daily by WMAL radio
announcer Jim Evans. A personal letter has been
written to WMAL's editorial writer, Mr. Barry
Suko
telling him what a good job he is doing
and something of the highly favorable reactions
we in the Administration are noticing. (He wrote
numerous excellent editorials condemning the
Moratorium and other demonstrations of dissent.)
A second and separate letter may be written to Mr.
Evans.
*NBC, ABC, CBS Evening News; Merv Griffin and Tonight Shows; CBS
Morning News; Today Show; NY Times; Washington Post; Time and News-
week Magazines
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
Chron
October 27, 1969
DAILY NEWS PLAN CRITIQUE
and
MEDIA MONITORING REPORT
as of 11:15 A.M. daily,
except Sat. and Sun.
covers past 30-hour period
Tues. thru Fri., and past
78-hour period on Mon.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
I.
DAILY NEWS PLAN CRITIQUE
The regular report of weekend
news play was not rendered on
this date. The responsible
individual was out of town and
the designated alternate was at
Camp David.
Steps will be taken to preclude
recurrence.
II.
MEDIA MONITORING REPORT
A. Of 11 news publications and TV programs monitored regularly,*
none reported information in a manner justifying counter action.
(However, two persons who are assigned media monitoring
responsibilities, as well as several others, have mentioned
from time to time the consistently complimentary comments
heard on station WMAL
on both radio and TV. This daily
barrage of pro-Administration news and views is heard
primarily during daytime hours
but often times in the
evenings as well. One of the most enthusiastic announcers
is Mr. Jim Evans, who talks to the area housewives via
radio every weekday from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. I have
heard from a number of sources that he has a fantastic follow-
ing and has a real knack for highlighting the salient points in
our programs and messages and selling them to his listeners.
Herb Klein, Paul Costello and others are aware of these facts
and are considering writing a note to Evans and/or the WMAL
management. Follow-up action will be reported tomorrow.)
B. Results of counter and/or follow-up actions previously reported.
Not applicable for this report.
*NBC, ABC, CBS Evening News; Merv Griffin and Tonight Shows; CBS
Morning News; Today Show; NY Times; Washington Post; Time and News-
week Magazines.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chron
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 27, 1969
MEMORANDUM FOR: MR. HALDEMAN
FROM:
ALEXANDER P. BUTTERFIELD
RE:
Presidential Correspondence with
Chiefs of State
Henry has approved and signed a paper for the President on this
subject. It is scheduled to be among the materials sent to you by
the Staff Secretary at 11:30 a.m. today.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chin
October 24, 1969
MEMORANDUM FOR:
MR. HALDEMAN
FROM:
ALEXANDER P. BUTTERFIELD
RE:
Appointment Schedule
I have the following meeting scheduled for tomorrow -- Saturday,
October 25th:
9:30-10:30
Follow-on planning session -- November 3rd
Vietnam Speech Game Plan
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 24, 1969
MEMORANDUM FOR:
MR. KLEIN
MR. SAFIRE
MR. CHAPIN
MR. DENT
MR. NOFZIGER
MR. MAGRUDER
MR. COSTELLO
MR. GARBETT
MR. WEST
There will be a l-hour follow-on planning session in the Cabinet
Room Saturday, October 25th, beginning promptly at 9:30 A.M.
ALEXANDER P. Y BUTTERFIELD
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chron
October 24, 1969
DAILY NEWS PLAN CRITIQUE
and
MEDIA MONITORING REPORT
as of 11:15 A.M. daily,
except Sat. and Sun.
covers past 30-hour period
Tues. thru Fri., and past
78- hour period on Mon.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
I.
DAILY NEWS PLAN CRITIQUE
A. Events programmed to be major White House news items
Thursday, each followed by reviews of coverage received.
1. BI-PARTISAN LEADERSHIP MEETING ON NARCOTICS
a. Newspapers:
Newspapers across the country gave story major
play. Most of them used the photos of the Cabinet
Room session and/or of the President and Art
Linkletter together. AP, UPI moved both stories
and pictures.
b. Television:
Story received excellent TV coverage on all network
news shows.
1:45 min.
ABC
Jarriel comment with film in
Cabinet Room and Linkletter
remarks in Roosevelt Room.
2:30 min.
CBS
Cronkite comment and film of
Linkletter in Roosevelt Room.
"President said government is
falling down in narcotics educa-
tion programs. "
1:30 min. NBC Kaplow comment and film of
Linkletter in Roosevelt Room.
2. PRESIDENT'S MARITIME MESSAGE
a. Newspapers:
Light pick-up in national newspapers. AP, UPI moved.
Story probably will be used more heavily over the week-
end in interpretive pieces.
b. Television:
Cronkite mentioned story with fairly brief 15-20 second
comment. CBS only.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
3. SHAH OF IRAN FAREWELL REMARKS
a. Newspapers:
Very little play except in the New York Times.
AP, UPI moved both story and picture.
b.
Television:
No comment or film on the network television shows.
4. ATLANTIC TREATY ASSOCIATION
No coverage noted in newspapers or on network TV.
B. The leading Administration news items were:
-- Ambassador Lodge's refusal to talk at the Paris
Peace Conference. This story ran high up on all
network TV news shows, and played the front
pages in national newspapers.
-- Vietnam, Vietnamization, cease-fire talk, troop
withdrawals, and lull continues. These stories
played prominently on network television news
shows and were recapped in national newspapers.
-- Comment re USSR agreemént to SALT talks. Not
played very prominently. No time or place for
talks was given, but it was estimated that they
would begin within one month.
C. The single leading news item:
-- A close race between Ambassador Lodge at the
Paris Peace Talks and the Bi-Partisan meeting
on Narcotics with Linkletter's statements.
2
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
II.
MEDIA MONITORING REPORT
A.
Of 11 news publications and TV programs monitored regularly, *
none reported information in a manner justifying counter action.
(On CBS Morning News, Senator Schweiker said that he has had
"much pressure put on him by White House aides" re Haynsworth.
On the same program, Leon Keyserling said that we are doing
things "all backward in the Administration
helping to aid
inflation, laying off instead of employing
"
He said that the
discount rate had never been higher than it is now. Although
comments were generally critical, it was decided that counter
action was not warranted.
B. Results of counter and/or follow-up actions previously reported:
Not applicable for this report.
NOTE:
Suspecting some lack of diligence and industriousness on the part
of designated monitors, I am in the process now of calling each
for the purpose of reiterating the importance of the good job they
are doing and emphasizing the need for continued thorough monitor-
ing and conscientious timely reporting.
*NBC, ABC, CBS Evening News; Merv Griffin and Tonight Shows; CBS
Morning News; Today Show; NY Times; Washington Post; Time and News-
week Magazines
3
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chron
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 24, 1969
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
ALEXANDER P. BUTTERFIELD
RE:
Veteran and Patriotic Organizations
Four new groups have indicated a strong desire to assist in efforts
to help rally the nation in visible support of your peace plan. They
are: The YAF, The Student Coordinating Committee for Freedom
in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, Harding Jones and the group which
rallied at Princeton University in support of you and your policies,
and Kiwanis International. We are discretely in touch with all
a total now of 17 separate organizations.
The American Legion has already manufactured and distributed
1 million American flag lapel buttons. They have ordered 1 million
more and the VFW is about to order a million in addition.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chron
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 24, 1969
MEMORANDUM FOR:
THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
ALEXANDER P. BUTTERFIELD
RE:
"Tell It to Hanoi" -- Letter Response
(A Follow-on Report)
The Casey-Mulcahy committee counted 2500 letters received on
Wednesday, 2000+ letters on Thursday, and approximately 2500
more this morning; A recap of mail received to date appears
below.
2,000 letters Thursday
9,000 letters Friday
18,000 letters Saturday and Monday
1,800 letters Tuesday
2,500 letters Wednesday
2,000 letters Thursday
2,500 letters Friday
37,800 total, thru noon today.
Many letters are signed by all members of families, by groups,
etc. One letter contained 91 signatures.
There has been no attempt as yet to obtain approximate percentages
of mail coming in from the various regions of the U.S. However,
this will be done.
About 10-12 percent of all letters contain donations
...
which, as
you know, were not solicited. They are receiving $5, $10, and $20
in cash
and larger amounts in check form.
The plan to send the entire bundle of mail to Ambassador Lodge is
being considered by the committee. There is some feeling that not
all persons who responded would want their names passed on to the
Hanoi government. I will report on this later.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chron
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 24, 1969
MEMORANDUM FOR:
MR. HALDEMAN
FROM:
ALEXANDER P. BUTTERFIELD
RE:
Daily Status Report on Assigned Projects
Assigned projects -- and the current status of each -- appear below.
Items preceded by a double asterisk (**) are or might be of interest
to the President.
**1. Game Plan ,for PO on Vietnam -- At this point in time the
Vietnam game plan is the "November 3rd Speech" game
plan
because the follow-on activities designed to pro-
mote the speech and inspire open evidence of American
unity and support for the President's peace plan take us
through mid-November. (See next item.)
**2, Game Plan for November 3rd Speech -- The first draft was
completed Tuesday afternoon, and a copy was inserted at the
"Game Plan" tab in the President's weekly news calendar
notebook. Criticisms, suggestions, etc. subsequently
received including some new proposals by Bill Safire,
Len Garment, Herb Klein and Ross Perot -- are being
reviewed and weighed for merit today. Another planning
session is scheduled for tomorrow morning and by 11:30 a.m.
Monday I will have completed a final or near-final action plan.
3. Presidential Letters to Chiefs of State -- You will recall that
in my last report on this topic I said that Henry rejected his
staff's first paper outlining a recommended program. Although
I asked that amended recommendations be completed Thursday
evening for HK's approval by 11:00 a. m. today, there has been
no response. As you asked, I will "keep trying". Al Haig is
aware of the President's personal interest in this project.
4. Objectives of Key White House Staff Offices -- As previously
reported I have in hand 11 papers of 13 requested. I will have
a "compilation paper" to you on Wednesday morning, Octo-
ber 29th
and will continue, meanwhile, to ride herd on
the 2 offices with reports so long overdue.
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
**5. Development of a Plan for Man-to-Man Coverage of Key
Constituencies -- I have taken no action to date but will
have at least an interim report for you by Wednesday,
morning, October 29th.
6. Development of a Plan for Improving Informational Exchange
at the 8:00 A. M. Meeting for Key Staff Members -- I have
taken no action to date but will have at least an interim report
for you by Thursday morning, October 30th. This should
allow time for your review and consideration of my proposal
and implementation of that proposal (with whatever amend-
ments you might wish to make) on Monday morning, Novem-
ber 3rd.
**7. The Daily News Plan Critique and Media Monitoring Report --
As you know, I have been responsible for the final preparation
of the Media Monitoring Report since the day of its inception
(October 8th), and for the comprehensive report, titled above,
since you approved that particular format (October 17th). I
would like to retain this responsibility through Tuesday, Octo-
ber 28th (in order to allow a few more days for the establish-
ment of a really good system) and turn it over to either Ron
Ziegler or Ken Cole (probably the latter) effective Wednesday,
October 29th.
8. Consideration of the Advisability of Sending "Tell It to Hanoi"
Mail to Ambassador Lodge in Paris -- This subject is addressed
in a separate memorandum entitled " 'Tell It to Hanoi' -- Letter
Response (A Follow-on Report)".
**9. A Review of the Standard Procedures for Handling Gifts for the
First Lady, and a Plan for Improvements, If Required -- I have
completed my inspection of the Gift Unit in EOB and have reviewed
carefully all items of interest. My final report is written but not
typed. It will be in your hands Monday morning.
**
10. A Review of Standard Procedures for Responding to Requests
for Presidential Appearances, Deciding Whether Or Not Some-
one Should Represent the President, and Designating Presidential
Representatives
and a Plan for Improvements to These
Procedures, If Required -- I have completed my review and
will have the final report in your hands Monday morning,
October 27th.
2
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
chron
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 23, 1969
MEMORANDUM FOR:
MR. HALDEMAN
FROM:
ALEXANDER P. BUTTERFIELD
RE:
4
Appointment Schedule
I have the following meeting scheduled for tomorrow -- Friday,
October 24th:
1:00-2:30
Ross Perot, at the Naval Academy
Reproduced at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum