August 8, 1974

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• Memorandum About the Combined Federal Campaign.
• Message to the Congress Transmitting Annual Report on the Trade Agreements Program for 1973.
• Veto of the Agriculture-Environmental and Consumer Protection Appropriation Bill.
• Address to the Nation Announcing Decision To Resign the Office of President of the United States

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• Federal Register of Thursday, August 8, 1974

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• Senate: August 8, 1974
• House of Representatives: August 8, 1974
• Extensions of Remarks: August 8, 1974

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• News Summaries, Unmarked News Summaries, Box 72, News Summaries - August 1974 [6 of 6] [Note: Due to the way News Summary products were compiled, you should also consult nearby days for potentially relevant materials.]
  • News Summary, August 8, 1974, (Wed nets, wires)

President's Personal File

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• President's Speech File
  • Box 95, Thursday, August 8, 1974, Resignation Speech

Source: News Summaries - August 1974 [6 of 6], box 72, White House Special Files: Staff Member and Office Files: President's Office Files: Unmarked News Summaries

NEWS SUMMARY

August 8, 1974
(Wed nets, wires)

The major stories:
-- The question in DC shifted from whether or not RN would resign to how and when, led Chancellor..... The capital was seized by resignation fever, began Mudd....Rumors of RN's imminent resignation swept DC and the world led ABC....Hill was seething w/rumors, speculation and gossip that RN was to resign, said NBC....AH/VP were responsible for much of the confusion, said CBS w/all nets noting the unplanned meeting, called by AH.

-- Goldwater on all nets in lead stories said he, Scott and Rhodes were "extremely impressed" at session to which RN invited them w/RN's putting best interests of US uppermost in his mind. RN's made no decision yet and they didn't suggest resignation -- neither that nor immunity came up. They told him Hill situation's "gloomy" and "very distressing." On CBS, Scott said RN was in entire control of himself, serene and amiable. On ABC, Rhodes said RN was in good spirits and good health as "4 old friends" discussed something that's "painful for all" of them.

-- RN's reconsidering whether to resign, step aside temporarily or sit tight, said Rather and several WH aide expect decision before end of wk, probably Thurs. RMW/BT and Steve Bull all deny resignation's imminent, said Rather, but CBS noted one of factors contributing to the fever was the less than iron-clad denials by WH. ABC also noted WH stopped short of outright denial. And NBC reported Rabbi Korff said RN will resign unless there's sudden flood of support. There was none, said Chancellor. On NBC film, Korff described RN as one of strongest men he's ever seen; only a man of his strength and caliber could've achieved peace as he has...."Very unsettled and tense" was how NBC described WH, but there's no feeling USG is about to halt altho WH seem to have halted....A WH legal staffer told ABC defense preps are at literal standstill w/RN not expected to force trial. Defense has all but been abandoned this source said....Brokaw said RN's now "actively considering" resignation.

-- Goldwater, Scott, Rhodes had draft of Sense of the Congress resolution to grant RN immunity from civil and criminal cases, said CBS tho BG denied the matter was discussed....Saxbe on ABC/NBC said immunity would be up to Jaworski, but he's heard no talk about it. Spec. Pros. regards matter as complicated in light of cover-up trial, said ABC, noting RN role as co-conspirator. Brooke on NBC approved what CBS called most likely course: Grant of pardon for RN by VP in advance of any prosecutions, tho VP would probably want Hill backing in light of his Nov. statement that public wouldn't stand for any such deals....Graham of CBS said RN could still face civil suits, disbarment and many court room appearances for yrs. to come even w/grant of immunity.

-- VP on all nets at Hill prayer meeting w/Rhodes. He had "no comment," said ABC noting he was "mobbed" as he appears close to the Presidency....CBS said AH told VP to prepare for the transition of power....2 close VP friends who saw him Wed. say resignation's expected, but not for several days as the departure needs to be arranged w/grace and ceremony. VP will go ahead w/tour of West, but return earlier than planned for his inauguration, said NBC's Nessen who added that AH apparently informed VP of RN resignation plans. Tho VP denied he's told staff to prepare to move into WH, Nessen said they're fully aware of what's corning, but they clammed up to press in the "extremely delicate situation" and bent over backwards to avoid looking like they want or anticipate the WH.

-- In addition to resignation-as-virtually-accepted fact reports cited above, NBC had 3 other stories not on either of other nets that emphasized public desire that RN go: a disenchanted Hardhat, Alabamians who've reluctantly concluded "RN's finished" and film from Wall St. where analyst said they want to know who's in charge in DC....DJ up 24 to 797 was noted by all nets -- that's 45 pts this wk and 37 in past 2 days....Reasoner commented that the fact that Wall St -- made up of generally conservative, goal-oriented Middle Arners w/whom RN's sought to identify -- has now "dumped" him must be the most galling loss of all.

-- Seriousness of drought's impact on Ia. corn reviewed by ABC film which also took a look at in increased vacation costs....CBS film from Cyprus w/emphasis on cont'd Turk C-F violations was only other substantive non-WG film report....JSC w/tapes on ABC/CBS clips; Jacobson guilty plea on CBS w/note by others....Film on all shows as a Frenchman named Petit walked the tightrope 1350 feet over NYC in between the World Trade Center's towers. "Apex of excitement .. . Supreme," an observer said on CBS.

* * * *

FOREIGN AFFAIRS
     Mansfield and Scott emphasized agreement w/HAK that "no foreign govt should have any doubts about way in which US policy will be conducted." Scott said "The system is working -- it's working on Hill and courts -- and we'll resolve our diffs and be better for it ... this is a great and strong country, and there's much more that's right w/it than's wrong w/it."
     Top E. Eur. countries have gone to USSR for meetings w/Brezhnev to discuss relations w/West, notably w/US. Fate of RN has been assigned key role in discussions, according to diplomats, adding "at best, detente will be slowed down or frozen. At worst may peter out." (UPI)...Soviet press for 1st time faced up to looming impchmnt and told readers RN could be removed.
     Israeli planes struck S. Lebanon twice in 13 hrs., hitting guerrilla bases. 3 reported killed and 15 wounded in 1st such raids since 7/23. ABC/NBC noted.
     Sadat charged Libya w/attempting sabotage and assassination in Egypt and warned Khadify's govt it was "playing w/fire w/out realizing consequences." Message called by UPI remarkable for its harsh tone, and it contrasted sharply w/hi tone of statements by the 2 countries a year ago when they declared intention to unite into 1 nation.
     Turks blasted N. Cyprus forcing Greeks into further retreat west of Kyrenia in major violation of C-F. All nets noted. CBS said if Turks claim at Geneva Thurs. when talks resume that they've respected C-F , it won't be true. In fact, they're hitting villages further from C-F lines now. UN forces nowhere to be seen, CBS noted. Turk desire to partition Cyprus noted by ABC.
     US has quietly w/drawn half its Phantom jets from Taiwan at time when PRC has started basing missile-firing boats near the Straits. DOD said there's no connection.
     5 sticks of dynamite in UN meditation rm. found and deactivated, noted NBC/CBS.

ECONOMY
     UPI leads on Burns Testimony: "Admin's recipe for cooling off inflation is more unemployment, slower economic growth and at least 2 years of public sacrifice."
     AMC reported highest Q profits ever, up 12.4% from yr. ago. It thus became 1st US automaker to report earnings gain this year. NBC noted.
     Retail sales down 1%.
     Kansas and Mo. got more rain, but other parts of M-W remained in grip of drought that's cut US corn crop and will mean higher food prices. ABC film from Ia. which has the biggest problem and some farmers said they'd be lucky if they managed to harvest 30% of '73 production. State's already
lost half its corn crop.
     Chrmn Needham said "NYSE views possibility of major domestic capital shortage w/alarm...w/it already in short supply and interest rates being measured in double digits, small businessman clearly is being squeezed in merciless vice."
     Mayors Beame and Alioto said cities are caught in municipal bond crunch which could mean delays in school and other public construction, plus possible cuts in urban services. They said erupting interest rates on municipal bonds are costing urban taxpayers millions.
     The more persistent the rumors of resignation, the more D-J went up, said NBC. But trading was light (13M) and there wasn't much special excitement. And most was done by pros, not by general public. NBC noted some analysts feel if RN resigns, mkt could go up sharply, perhaps only temporarily, tho. ... 3rd highest jump of year came in anticipation of WR change, said CBS.?

OTHER DOMESTIC AFFAIRS
     Conferees agreed on compromise $11.3B Housing Bill reportedly acceptable to Admin.
     Following 2 1/2 hr-Weicker talk-a-tron, Senate by 54-34 killed bill authorizing employment of high-level WR personnel after House refused to accept provision limiting access to tax returns which Weicker had introduced. AP says action leaves in question WR ability to hire those making between $36,000 and $42,000.

ADMIN/RESIGNATION?
     UPI leads: "RN's considering resigning in face of almost certain removal and will make decision w/in a few days, GOP Hill leaders said after meeting w/him." UPI leads earlier: "squelching reports that he'd resign before the day was out, RN told 3 Hill leaders he hasn't decided whether to quit or submit to impchmnt and trial."
     AP leads: "3 GOP Hill leaders, emerging from meeting w/RN, implied he's considering resignation but said he hasn't made final decision."
     Scott expects situation to be resolved "reasonably soon...w/in a matter of days."...John Anderson doubts there'll be any resignation for several days because "there are too many negotiations going on" to design a way for RN "to make a graceful exit."
     CBS/ABC clips as RN/RZ went from EOB to WR for Hill meeting. ... CBS noted RAK came to WR in evening and that RN's family was w/him during the day. ... Along w/GOP Senators pressuring for resignation, the AH/VP "crisis" meeting and WR statements that didn't unequivocally rule out resignation, CBS cited RN's seclusion as adding to the resignation fever.
      RN was seen shifting by CBS w/reconsideration of options. No official confirmation of when word would come, said Rather who had clip of AH/RZ going to EOB and of press rushing at Tom DeCair in the atmosphere of tension and confusion -- but he said he didn't know what was going on. Later Wed, WH continued to say there was no knowledge of any change in RN position to see matter thru trial, said CBS.
     Rather on CBS am commented that top aides all say publicly "as of today , this hour, RN doesn't expect to resign" tho privately many are saying "I think jig is up." He noted RN believes salons will support him and while even those closest to RN don't agree, they do agree that RN believes it. Rather notes resigning may be less best for RN but those close to RN say when RN sees it as best for country, he'll say so and leave. Rather said mood is "watchful waiting" w/prayers for US. ... On live report late Wed. pm, Rather said mood is one of "tension and waiting" and most staff seem to believe Admin's "coming to an end."
     Brokaw said RN no longer stands by his decision to see things thru; he's actively considering resignation. Theories are a dime-a-dozen at WH. RN will make resignation decision on his own, it was said at WH and til he does, he's still President. ... WH source told ABC pressure on RN is increasing at quantum basis. Tho he's a pragmatist, some staff note he could dig in his heels after resisting this long. In any case, if he resigns, it'll be on his own schedule, ABC reported.
     Brokaw said he wouldn't go so far as to describe WH mood as one of crisis, but it's clear these are grave times and no one knows what RN's going to do. It's clear he'll make the decision and he's now "agonizing" over it. Physically, he appeared fine, said Brokaw who added RN gave "small, deliberate smile" to press on way to WH from EOB and he's said to be serene. Reflecting his thesis that WH has come to halt, Brokaw noted that as he gave his report, Clawson and staff were watching him from their balcony to see what he was saying. And a top aide's secy said "what's happening?" when Brokaw called for an interview. But, he noted, Ken Cole said there's legislative progress and WH meeting on economy was held Wed.
     On Metromedia, Rowland Evans said odds were high that RN would resign in 2-5 days, but RN's a stubborn, self-confident man w/enormous capacity to deceive public, Hill and official family, so odds aren't prohibitive, said the harsh columnist who doesn't feel RN stands a snowball's chance in hell of surviving Senate -- and, despite denials, Evans is sure the GOP leaders told RN that. ... Novak said everybody wants RN to resign and besides his own stubbornness, secret, informal negotiations are probably holding things up. Evans said immunity will be "very, very difficult" to arrange given the upcoming trials. It's no STA affair, said Evans as RN's involved in a "whole interlocking relationship" w/the felons and those indicted.

OTHER RESIGNATION?
Providence, R.I. paper quoted "undaunted devotee of RN" that he's already made decision to resign. CBS/ABC noted, latter saying that's Korff's home town. Source said: RN has concluded nat'l interest may best be served by resignation, irrespective of massive injustice committed against him that's prompted his painful decision."...And, ABC/CBS also noted, Gene Pulliam's Phoenix Gazette said "unimpchble sources" had informed it RN would resign.
     Mutual quoted source to say RN's decision appeared to be "99% certain."...ABC/CBS noted RZ said "We can't confirm any of rumors nor will we." AP says he then "turned on his heel" and walked into WH w/out answering other queries. Korff cancelled series of pro-RN broadcast scheduled on Mutual next week. ... NBC noted he's one of few to see RN in recent days and said RN may resign in nat'l interest unless there's flood of support. ... AP notes that when asked if RN were optimistic about chances of survival, Korff refused to respond directly. When suggested this appeared to be a negative response, he said, "that might be the right conclusion." Korff said "You'll have to draw your own conclusions...it's very sad that a man as gifted as he who's done so much as he actually has ... has created opportunity for others. now to engage in another sport." He said Mon. t'script was "somewhat incriminating" but maintained support for RN saying "history will have special place for him."
      UPI leads: "a flood of calls deluged WH from early am til late eve. w/callers -- some in tears -- urging RN not resign. ... Many were weeping. ... Most of callers would say ,'Tell RN not to resign. Tell him to stick in there and fight'."
     UPI notes a minister who represented 500,000 black baptists wanted to urge RN not to resign . One man said RN was "getting railroaded." Another said the "media should be shown they can't hound a Pres. out of office." One lady asked: "Why is EMK still in office?" UPI says the volunteers taking calls were cheerful and upbeat , saying in consoling tones "he's not going to resign -- don't you worry."
      AP notes the Tortariellos , who offered RN their life savings to help pay his defense, remained steadfast supporters . Re: Mon . revelation , Tortariello said: "You've got to admire him, he made a mistake, but admitted it. He should be forgiven. It's inhuman not to. ... The men who helped destroy him will have to live w/that the rest of their lives." They're a bunch of sheep; all returning to the flock, runing for cover because main feature -- elections -- is coming up."
     Herschensohn, described by UPI as the WH Asst. who's been lining up support for RN thruout US , described as "damnable lies" reports that RN would resign. He insisted he knew what was happening. Asked if RN was going to quit, BT replied w/ emotion: "No, I know." ... UPI notes another aide said flatly that RN feels even if he has to stand alone, he's a "strict constructionist" and will go thru trial.
     Graham on CBS AM noted RN spokesman says RN won't resign because he's a "const'l purist" and wants process by const'l means -- impchmnt. Graham noted impchmnt's also mentioned in Constn, tho no pres has left by either. Noting 2 VPs Calhoun and STA resigned, Graham concluded that while neither resignation or impchmt are "as American as apple pie," both are const'l.
     CBS called back Cronkite and Sevareid from vacation . "60 Minutes" has scrapped its Sunday show for possible resignation. "Everyone's in a state of alert," CBS spokesman said. ... Today will originate from DC Thurs. and Fri. in case resignation situation develops. ... ABC has gathered extra film crews and prepared a series of specials that'd be ready if RN resigns.
      Geo. Will on local CBS sees no reason to doubt that RN may stick by his intent to follow impchmnt process. He said it's time people relax a bit. Wed. was very similar to "firestorm" over Cox firing. Will has no doubt RN will be out by Halloween via impchmnt. Once all MCs and papers have made their declaration on resignation, "they've used all the arrows in their quivers." Thus, silence that follows is to be expected. Will noted speculation RN would resign by weekend because "Wall St. can't stand it." Will also noted he heard Collingwood report that British want RN to resign -- which Will called a "crashing irrelevance." Will declared a Pres. "doesn't run US economy -- market goes up/down" based on all kinds of factors and inflation will continue w/or w/out VP as Pres this week, so stop the rush.
     Herman on CBS AM comment praised consensus favoring cooling off period reached by Sen. GOP caucus Tues. "Emotion-packed stampede" won't solve problem and impcht can't be result of "emotional binge." Now is no time to move fast; we need "logic, law and level headedness," said Herman, emphasizing this is a matter w/which US must long live.
     Curtis said Hill should take 30 day recess til emotion subsides. He said Hill's being bombarded by "propaganda, pressures and emotion." He rec'd 171 calls and telegrams for RN and 44 against from his Today show appearance Tues.
     WH gives picture of insulated Pres. seemingly determined to lash self to mast and go down w/the ship, said Reasoner. Whether he resigns or not, his worst-felt loss must have been the Wall Streeters where some say RN's departure would bring 200 pt . D-J gain. They aren't the media or liberal E . Estab, said Reasoner of this "club" of US success that now wants RN out. They privately wonder how they got stuck w/him and realize that he wasn't the genuine and dedicated spokesman for their interests that they once thought. Rather , Reasoner concluded, as Eleanor Roosevelt (!!--maybe we'll hear a Voorhis or Hiss quote from Reasoner next) once said, RN always was "a man w/out convictions who saw more room at top in conservative movement than elsewhere."

HILL/OTHER COMMENT
     Hill GOPs "swarmed" to close door meetings, said ABC noting VP at one and even Mansfield at another. WH was "bombarded."...One Senator said Wed . resignation was "premature," noted NBC but rumors reached "epidemic proportions" and RN's strength continued to erode as he learned from the GOP leaders.
     UPI says it's believed that among those who'd written RN urging resignation were Brock and Javits. Neither would confirm or deny. ... NBC's Mackin called Brooke one of the most forthright to comment Wed. as he said on film that sev'l GOP solons have contacted RN and urged resignation. And the contact wasn't written. He expects RN to be on TV "anytime" to resign in best interests of GOP and of US and to say he doesn't want US to go thru a long, tortuous trial that some have said could go 6 months.
     Dole said: "prevailing mood in Senate among GOPs is that resignation would be right step at this time." Dole on CBS AM noted "respect of GOPs is shattered" and all but handful of solons would convict RN as of today, but hastened to add it's 6 mos. for trial. He told AH its "grimsville" and AH said he and RN were aware of that, tho Dole said it's been typical of Admin to "filter" things before they reach RN and leave the bad out or tone it down while playing up the good. Thus solons may have to "make crystal clear" how bad it is to RN and go directly to him. Dole added: "We've carried spears for a long time for RN" and we may suffer for it. Predicting RN will step aside -- by impchnt or 25th, Dole said "something's in air -- something big."
     One GOP Senator said: "I don't think RN's got anybody left except Curtis."
     Only NBC noted , as sign of continuing loss of support, that Hugh Scott said RN could no longer be presumed innocent in Senate w/only question to be decided RN's "degree of accountability."
     Mansfield said Senate should go ahead w/trial provided House recommends it, even if RN resigns. "It's gone so far now I think we'd better carry it thru to conclusion." CBS noted and added that Bob Byrd disagreed, saying it'd be like kicking a man who's down. On Metromedia, Novak called Mansfield's idea "ridiculous" and added that Byrd wants a confession of guilt, but that's unlikely. Albert said there were reasons for proceeding w/impcht even if RN resigns. "Basic reason is to show what the case is."
     Rodino and Hutchinson showed no enthusiasm for continuing w/process should RN resign. Hutch said "It'd be unnecessary and unwarranted. Whole purpose of impcht is removal" and purpose would be served by resignation.
     Sen. Stevens said: "Impcht is the procedure and there should be no deviation."
     Wiggins in lengthy CBS clip told of his Fri. briefing by AH/JSC who must have sought him as sounding board. He didn't mislead them, he said, and predicted reaction like that to Cox firing -- or worse.
     Sandman said: "I can see no sensible reason to hang in, where you have absolutely no possibility of winning." Sandman on Today called RN's disclosure "insurmountable" evidence citing that RN told HRH point blank to pull Gray off and that's impchble offense. He sees less than 12 votes in House for RN. (John Anderson says he knows of only 2.)
     Sandman said before Mon., Senate wouldn't convict -- for political reasons; too many want to be Pres -- but now they must vote to convict. He said it wouldn't be helpful for RN to address Hill and felt it in "best interests of country" for RN to resign. He's anxious for RN to make up mind prior to 8/19 and leave "gracefully" instead of going down "in defeat. " Personally Sandman feels very pained and noted RN will go down as one of greatest Pres. Re: new VP, he says he'll support Rocky -- very warm friend and individual of great capacity and he supported him in '68 over RN , concluding "I usually don't support losers, but my heart was in it.
     Blackburn (R-Ga) said "RN'll be lucky to get 15 House votes .. . so why prolong the agony?"
     Mayor Evers doesn't think RN's done anything bad enough to warrant ,impchmnt. He'd not be a part of those "kicking, beating, knocking down and even digging the grave for RN ." Moreover, "he's a lame duck, and Dems could have a tremendous leverage against GOP in '76 by using WG."
      Most major papers -- many of them past RN backers -- called for resignation of speeding up impcht, noted ABC, but NY Times came out in support of RNs position that he not resign, saying impchrrnt should be followed to conclusion. But LAT said RN was now assured of conviction.
      In mid-afternoon, ABC reported Goldwater said RN had told him there'd be resignation and that BG told Senate colleagues to "watch their TVs."...Goldwater said: "Twice US TV displayed an unholy ability to lie," re: ABC and earlier NBC report that BG claimed had said he was unable to arrange Tues meeting w/RN and had been blocked from WH. BG described press as "a rotten bunch". When asked if he'd met w/RN, BG said "It's a goddamned lie ... I haven't been at WH in about 2 weeks and haven't seen RN since May." Unless press can do better, "God help us...It's about time US media stop lies such as this."
     ABC's Bob Clark later went on radio and apologized to BG. He said info had been given him by a Sen. who declined to be identified, and that the Sen. later said he was mistaken about BG's connection. At that time, Clark said "a form of this report will be aired on ABC-TV news." ... ABC TV had
     BG from WH news conf. where he called the reports "g-d lies" . ... On live coverage , Brokaw rebutted BG, saying "BG is mistaken . NBC didn't report he'd visited WH and was refused admission. It reported he wanted to arrange meeting w/RN but that wasn't done."
     Hays said to House "Goldwater was on TV a few mins ago saying a resignation is coming that'll do more to restore confidence in our system than anything we do here today."
     Jack Kilpatrick on local CBS said press performance had been "macabre" and "dismaying", akin to yelling to guy on bridge to "jump, jump." Let RN resign if he wants, said Kilpo, but end the hysteria and panic.
     Harsh foreign press comment noted by ABC w/terms such as "liar" and "criminal" being used. ... NBC noted dollar was up in anticipation of RN departure and London Times headlined: "RN's Finished."...Wires also note criticism in many Eur. papers was extraordinarily blunt. London's Guardian bannered "RN is Dead -- but He Won't Lie Down." .. . Copenhagen Politiken headed: "Political Death Sentence Awaits RN." ... Belgium Le Peuple w/head: "Richard the Cheater."...Some poked fun at RN. Others defended him and still others attacked. But much of world just wanted to get impcht ordeal over w/asap, says UPI.

IMMUNITY?
     Pressed to rule out possibility of negotiations w/Jaworski, Warren said that'd "serve no useful purpose" and said "this is a very serious situation, we're discussing here."...JSC on CBS/ABC said he'd "no knowledge" RN planned to resign and hadn't aban4oned his defense. ... Asked if he'd begun plea bargaining, he snapped: "No way...I don't believe a lawyer's relationships w/his client are subject to public discussion on streets and I'm not going to engage in it."... It wasn't a good day for a pres'l lawyer to go out of doors, said ABC w/clip as JSC said he'd not talk of his relationship w/his client. But ABC's Schoumacher said JSC lapsed into past tense about his job and said he's just an officer of the court.
     There were reports that RN's legal staff consulted w/Deputy AG Silberman. "I haven't met JSC for at least a month," Silberman said. "There's nothing to it. I haven't met w/anyone concerning RN."
     Saxbe on ABC/NBC said immunity is in Jaworski's hands, and the Spec. Pros. is in unusual position given cover-up trial. NBC noted RN wasn't indicted because he's Pres. What if he's no longer in office?...AG said it's "long way down the road" -- if RN plans to face trial -- when asked if RN might be able to pardon himself from possible penality.
     RN could be liable on obstruction of justice if he left office, said NBC. WH is resisting Sense of Congress resolution as it doesn't want a "deal," said NBC, but one Sen. said if made official RN's mind might be changed.
     NBC/CBS noted 4 ways for immunity: 1) Hill action things moving too fast for that , said CBS and it may be unconst'l intrusion into Judicial branch. NBC also said it had legal/const'l problems and might not be binding; 2) Jaworski grant in exchange for testimony, said CBS or, said NBC, in move of mercy on grounds Pres. suffered enough; 3) RN pardon self never done and not being considered, but possible, said CBS. Some question as to its legality, said NBC. 4) VP pardon RN on taking over -- US doesn't want a Pres. to go to jail , said Brooke on NBC. Clip of VP not seeing such a pardoning move as acceptable on CBS.
Mills said immunity can "be introduced now, but I don't know if House would pass it. you've got all these people convinced he's guilty of at least 1 article and they're out for blood." Mills added only way immunity could still be adopted would be in tandem w/censure. He predicted all 187 GOP MCs and "as many as 100" Dems would support bill but unless alternative was adopted before House voted impcht there'd be no chance of approval later.
     Javits on ABC said it wouldn't be equal justice to grant RN immunity, but it's still possible as it may be seen as superior to going thru impch process.
     But Weicker on ABC said he couldn't see immunity law for RN unless it's passed for all citizens.
     Brooke on ABC said to leave office is penalty enough and he'll push sense of Congress resolution .
      "It'd be very bad precedent," said Pastore. AP says Senate Dems are expected to explore the matter at caucus Thurs. am.
     Dupont (R-Del) said most impt question is "not fate of RN, but moral standards to be imposed on the next Pres." He'd oppose any move to provide immunity.
     ABC noted even if not indicted in coverup trial , RN would be subpoened. And immunity wouldn't  protect him from civil suites, eg on taps. CBS also noted that and possibility, tho unlikely, of state/local cases against RN. In any case, numerous, humiliating court appearances can't be prevented by immunity, said Graham.....No comment by spec. pros, said NBC and WR says there are no negotiations underway.
     At least 1 atty for the 6 coverup defendents is likely to ask for trial postponement. A source also said Sirica may free some defendants, w/reasoning that w/public awareness of tapes, plus additional t'scripts to come and possible Senate trial , it'll make it impossible to find impartial jury anywhere . Lawyers for HRH declined comment, but atty familiar w/case speculated on likelihood of HRH guilty plea. Even if RN stands Senate trial, defense said RN is such a vital witness that coverup trial should be delayed til it's clear how long RN'll remain in office.

VP
     UPI leads on Sun-Times story : "VP has instructed aides to begin drafting inaugural statement, drawing up list of potential vice-pres'l choices and WR staff appls. and writing a long TV address to the Nation." His intimates said selection of a new VP wouldn't be made for at least a week or two after he assumed office. Sun-Times reporter Kondracke said VP "was understood to be soliciting add'l names beyond 14 now under consideration that includes: Percy, John Anderson, Rocky, Baker, Taft, Stafford, Hatfield, Brooke, Goodell, Quie and Reagan . . . Rocky and Richardson cited by Evans-Novak on Metromedia or some other party-base-broadener. Novak feels US will bend over backwards to give VP a good start. Laird reportedly heads list . . .. Miltich called the story a complete fabrication.
     Knight papers quoted unnamed VP aides as saying he'd begun making plans to succeed RN in event RN resigns. Paul Miltich called report "totally inaccurate." But VP aides were quoted to say they now felt free to draw up plans for policy and personnel decisions to be implemented by VP. Knight's Friedman said: "In last 18 hrs, things have changed...he understands what's happening because he's realist and because he knows what must be done for US. He'll make sure he's ready."
     His aides reportedly contrasted situation to orderly transition following an election and aide said VP realizes his political future would depend on successful assault on inflation and he'd make this top priority...NBC noted denial of Free Press story and that VP's usually open staff said they'd be able to comment again in a few days.
     Rocky aide Hugh Morrow said he's not heard of any overtures to become VP.
    Like others Wed, VP watched and waited, said ABC w/clips of C&M members arriving for meeting at which VP was to speak, but he was called to WR to see AH for an hr....That was one of Wed. developments adding fuel to resignation talk, said CBS....Rhodes on all nets insisting VP's presence at his office was for regular Wed prayer meeting. NBC noted he wouldn't say if they prayed for VP but there weren't any for RN. CBS also noted and had Rhodes saying there were a lot of prayers. Also on ABC.
      VP was cheered on Hill, said CBS...He smiled, but had no comment , said ABC....He didn't say anything about anything, noted NBC....Scheduled 11-day campaign-business tour to West is still on, said CBS/ABC....For Policy/Hill briefings held by VP Wed, but he cancelled interview and staff action meeting, said ABC....Reportedly, he's not recently talked w/RN, said CBS, also noting he had his favorite lunch Wed: cottage cheese w/catsup.

OTHER WG
     House passed 385-25 ok for radio/TV coverage of impchmnt. ... Senate Rules voted 8-1 (Griffin) in favor of allowing live TV of any trial.
     JSC said 9 more subpoenaed WG conversations apparently were never recorded, noted all nets . They weren't seen as missing under suspicious circumstances, tho, said CBS and JSC said RN's looking for 2 missing while others took place in residence where system wasn't set up. He handed over rest of the 64 conversations.
     Sirica sent Jaworski 5 tapes for use in trial.
     Jacobsen pleaded guilty to charge of bribing JBC w/$10,000 in milk money. Jaworski's office agreed to drop 7-count indictment vs. Jacobsen in unrelated loan scandal in Texas and to bring no further charges vs. him concerning matters already uncovered and Jacobsen agreed to testify vs. JBC. He could've gotten 35 yrs. -- only 2 possible now.
     To show decline in RN support, NBC film of a Chicago hardhat who a yr. ago gave RN the benefit of the doubt after 8/15/73 speech and said no Pres. would get involved in such a matter. Now he says RN should be impchd and he'll never vote GOP again, having broken for 1st time in '72 when Dems didn't have a decent candidate. He doesn't feel impchmnt'll be bad for US as it can get someone else in and get going w/govt again . Most of his fellow hardhats feel same way.
     And Pettit of NBC found small towns/villages of Ala very weary of WG; they want it over w/so govt can get back to normal work, eg, act on high prices. It was RN Country in '72 -- now the arguments have ended. Demopolis was divided -- til this week now the very conservative town wants quick decision. A staunch defender -- head of Chamber -- said RN should resign. Churchgoers, young and old, want it settled. Hardware mgr. said it should be done as expeditiously as possible to get govt back to routine functions, particularly cutting inflation.
      Leads/excerpts from 3 UPI features re: WG background to be released at will: "The 2 men could hardly be less alike -- one a retired, balding spy , the other a blond young lawyer in a hurry. Yet, together they delivered the one-two punch that ultimately brought down RMN. McCord and Dean, men both made famous and ruined by WG, men who refused to go down alone when they fell. McCord pulled the trigger."
     UPI leads: "To public, RN said Sirica was 'a courageous judge.' Privately, he calledhim 'a hardliner.' RN was right both times...There's no doubt Sirica played central role in exposing worst scandal in US history."
     And finally, tonite at least, UPI leads: "Even if WG hadn't come along, presidency of RMN would've been stained in history by resignation in disgrace of his VP, STA. As it was, STA's downfall became just one more crack in a crumbling admin structure. He joined the Mitchells, Deans, Colsons, Haldemans, Ehrlichmans as symbols of RN's proclivity for selecting associates whose removal would become unavoidable. More than any of the others, tho, STA personified Admin. He was its cutting edge."
     According to the Anne Arundel prosecutor, STA may yet answer criminal corruption charges in Md. State's atty Duckett has asked federal investigators to hand over info which led to STA's plea so he can decide if he should move ahead w/prosecution. Duckett has been criticized by his primary opponent
for allegedly dragging his feet in the case.

MISCELLANY
     Ex-Cong. George Hansen edged out 3-term Cong. Orval Hansen in Idaho GOP Primary.
     2 NANA investigative reporters charged the office of comptroller of currency knew about irregularities in operation of Arnholt Smith's bank for 10 years before any firm action was taken. And RN's name crops up in 1963 w/a number of examiners who'd taken part in exam of the Bank present . One asked why the San Diego office hadn't received a formal copy of the completed report. The regional administrator said : "It's on the desk of the VP." "You man LBJ?" The official almost fell off his chair laughing and said: "You've got the wrong VP."
      Kuralt on the Road at an "olympics" for high schoolers who excell in vocational arts -- brick laying, electricity, carpentry, etc.

LATE NEWS
AP leads: "RN's portrayed as poised on brink of a decision whether to step aside voluntarily or let const'l machinery grind on toward certain impchmnt."
     AP leads: "Buffeted by pressure to resign, RN summoned 3 GOP Hill leaders to crisis con£. and one said later 'the situation will be resolved w/in matter of days . '"
     Scott said RN made clear he wanted to assess situation w/out considering "collateral considerations," eg, immunity, pension and staff allowances. He said RN asked , "'Do you mean damn gloomy?'
and I said, 'Yes sir. '" Scott said RN's "state of mind is of a man at peace w/himself."
     UPI leads: "GOP Hill leaders reported RN was considering resigning -- perhaps w/in a few days -- and it was learned resignation statement was ordered prepared." Difficulty of that task delayed completion to point it couldn't possibly have been used Wed. UPI says source who disclosed prep of statement said task was framed in terms of it actually being used -- not as a contingency while options are weighed - - but RN could still decide not to step down. UPI's Thomas also says David and Ed Cox made rounds of WR offices Wed. saying goodbye.
     "He's going, but we don't know exactly when." UPI quotes an aide. Thomas says it may be as soon as Friday.
     Goldwater said they told RN he could be sure of 15 votes for acquittal in trial. He outlined their meeting in conference phone call to stations and papers in Ariz. He chose the call over DC news conf because he was disgusted w/media in DC. He said "RN's biggest mistake was not immediately saying, 'All right, we goofed. This happened,' and presenting the evidence. If he'd done that 2 years ago, it'd have been all over." Asked about charges that nets lied in reports about him, BG said: "I was on the floor, or I'd have said what was really on my mind. I'm getting sick and tired of this press back here , telling lies and slanting the news."
     HAK returned to WH shortly before midnite Wed. AP notes as Secy of State, HAK by law would receive a President's resignation letter.
     UPI' s leads: "Hill GOP pulled away from idea of sending a delegation to ask RN to resign for good of nation and the party. But many remain convinced he's bound to step down -- 'retire' is the polite word they use -- when he fully evaluates hopelessness of avoiding removal."
     But, some question whether he will resign. "His whole history has been one of refusing to accept defeat," says Cotton.
     "Resignation's still on the front burner, just waiting for the match," Dole said.
     Sources close to Senate GOP leaders say Brooke tried and failed to get WH reaction to proposal that RN be given immunity. He also failed to get HHH to co-sponsor the bill but may introduce
it Thurs....Trib says an unidentified ex-RN aide has been discussing w/key MCs immunity w/the ex-aide acting as RN emmisary.
     AP leads: "From Ore. to La, many top GOP officials want RN to resign, saying his prompt departure would benefit US, GOP and RN himself. Support for RN is virtually gone among officials of the party that 5 times placed him on its national ticket."
     AP leads: "If RN should resign or be removed by impchrnnt transition to new administration would be sudden and complete w/minimum of ceremony."
     UPI says gathering at WH fence Wed. was reminiscent of crowds that flock to Buckingham Palace or St. Peter's Square during final hours of the life of an English monarch or a pope.
     AP leads: "'It was pathetic. I had tears in eyes,' The Pres of US, in shirt sleeves, was greeting his family in upstairs room at WH. The witness: Ollie Atkins." Perhaps t'script where HRH said Atkins' photos don't do any good was why wH said the latest Atkins' photos wouldn't be made public. More likely
this time the film was too private, too poignant, says Cormier.
     5600-word AP feature by McLeod, to be held for release, leads: "RMN was ultimate victim of WG. Altho he contended to end he'd done no wrong deserving destruction of his presidency, 2 years of scandal had brought him to brink of impchrnnt, stripped of his most effective friends. Even his staunchest defenders began deserting the embattled Pres when he admitted he'd w/held evidence..."
     Communist's took Da Nang offensive to besieged town of Due Due following capture of nearby district capital and destruction of its entire 500-man defense force. ...NVN has alerted some of its 6 home-based divisions amid ominous signs of a possible countrywide Communist offensive in SVN US officials report in AP story. These officials are more concerned than at any time since C-F that was supposed to end the war. Some analysts suggested Hanoi may regard Admin turmoil as opportunity to strike hard in SVN. Officials denied expressions of worry were intended to influence Senate to restore $300M cut in aid.
     Usery expressed optimism that end may be in sight for NFL strike, w/ Wed meeting the best thus far.

# # # #

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The President's Daily Brief is the primary vehicle for summarizing the day-to-day sensitive intelligence and analysis, as well as late-breaking reports, for the White House on current and future national security issues. Read "The President's Daily Brief: Delivering Intelligence to Nixon and Ford" to learn more.

• President's Daily Brief of 08 August 1974

The Foreign Relations of the United States series presents the official documentary historical record of major U.S. foreign policy decisions and significant diplomatic activity. Visit the State Department website for more information.

Vol. XVI, Soviet Union, August 1974-December 1976

President Ford and the Jackson-Vanik Amendment, August-October 1974

• 1. Memorandum From the Counselor of the Department of State (Sonnenfeldt) to Secretary of State Kissinger, Washington, August 8, 1974

  Source: National Archives, RG 59, Lot File 81D286, Records of the Office of the Counselor, Box 8, Soviet Union, Aug–Sept 1974. Secret; Sensitive.

Vol. XXXV, National Security Policy, 1973-1976

The Hughes Glomar Explorer's Secret Mission to Recover a Sunken Soviet Submarine

• 189. Minutes of Meeting, Washington, August 8, 1974, 11:20-11:45 a.m.

  [Source: Central Intelligence Agency, Office of the Director of Central Intelligence, Job 80M01066A: E[xecutive] R[egistry] Subject Files, Box 3, Executive Registry Subject Files—1975 JENNIFER. Top Secret; JENNIFER. Three pages not declassified.]

Vol. E-3, Documents on Global Issues, 1973-1976

Human Rights

• 241. Briefing Memorandum From the Deputy Undersecretary for Management (Brown) to Secretary of State Kissinger, Washington, August 8, 1974

  Brown presented options for reorganization of the Department of State’s human rights and humanitarian affairs activities.
  
  Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy Files, P820097–1280. Limited Official Use. Drafted by Tait. Sent through Ingersoll. Tab A, a memorandum from Levenson to Brown, May 14, submitted a proposal for organizing a new Office of Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs within the Department of State is in the National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy Files, P820097–1288.

Vol. E-11, Part 2, Documents on South America, 1973-1976

Uruguay

• 340. Telegram 2224 From the Embassy in Uruguay to the Department of State, Montevideo, August 8, 1974, 1207Z

  Summary: The Embassy reported that military politics and the military decision-making process were unsettled, which had temporarily improved President Bordaberry’s position.
  
  Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy File, D740218–0183. Confidential. Repeated for information to Asuncion, Buenos Aires, Brasilia, Southcom, and DIA. Telegram 2233 from Montevideo, August 8, transmitted the following correction: “Para 4, reftel, should be corrected to read as follows: ‘Marcial Bugallo, Minister of Labor until mid-July, told an EmbOff that he and other ministers repeatedly got calls from the Joint Staff (ESMACO) urging a certain action and then from a service CINC or other senior officer urging a contrary action. The Director of Planning and Budget recently told the AID rep that there were some serious doubts in the GOU about approving Navegacion Atlantida’s request for a sub-loan under AID’s L–022. That was later followed by an ESMACO officer’s call to the DCM urging Mission approval of the sub-loan, although the GOU had not officially determined its position. Several days later, Col. Cicalese, who serves as Sub-Director of Planning and Budget, informed the AID rep that the Director of ESMACO, Brig. Cardoso, had definitely rejected the company’s request for GOU approval of the sub-loan. The military is not united on policy. Siracusa.’” (Ibid., D740218–0686) Telegram 1658 from Montevideo, June 17, summarized the apparent resolution of the late May 1974 crisis in which Bordaberry named Gen. Julio Cesar Vadora as Army CINC and Bordaberry “agreed to accepting stronger military participation in the government.” (National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy File, D740158–0610) “Chiappe” refers to the former Army CINC, Lt. Gen. Hugo Chiappe.

The Kissinger telephone conversation transcripts consist of approximately 20,000 pages of transcripts of Kissinger’s telephone conversations during his tenure as Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs (1969-1974) and Secretary of State (1973-1974) during the administration of President Richard Nixon. Visit the finding aid for more information.

Digitized versions can be found in the National Archives Catalog.

The White House Photo Office collection consists of photographic coverage of President Richard Nixon meeting with prominent social, political, and cultural personalities; speaking engagements and news conferences of the President and various high-ranking members of the White House staff and Cabinet; Presidential domestic and foreign travel, including Presidential vacations; social events and entertainment involving the First Family, including entertainers present; official portraits of the President, First Family, and high-ranking members of the Nixon administration; the 1969 and 1973 Inaugurals; the President’s 1972 Presidential election campaign appearances (including speeches) and other official activities of the White House staff and the President’s Cabinet from January 20, 1969 until August 9, 1974 at the White House and the Old Executive Office Building; other locations in Washington, DC, such as The Mall; and the Presidential retreats in Camp David, Maryland, Key Biscayne, Florida, and San Clemente, California. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

Roll WHPO-E3361 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3361-, Business leaders with Ken Rush, Bill Baroody, and other staff members discussing the Economy Inflation Problem. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House. Ken Rush, Bill Baroody.

Roll WHPO-E3362 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3362-01-04, President Nixon walking to the Oval Office along the White House Colonnade on the day he resigned. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House. President Nixon.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3362-02, President Nixon walking to the Oval Office along the White House Colonnade on the day he resigned. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Colonnade. President Nixon.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3362-03, President Nixon walking to the Oval Office along the White House Colonnade on the day he resigned. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Colonnade. President Nixon.

Roll WHPO-E3363 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3363-01-03, Vice President Gerald Ford waiting in Oval Office reception area to meet with President Nixon concerning the transfer of power. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Oval Office reception room. Gerald Ford, Jerry Warren.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3363-03, Vice President Gerald Ford waiting in Oval Office reception area to meet with President Nixon concerning the transfer of power. View is through a hall and doorway. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Oval Office reception room. Gerald Ford.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3363-04, Jerry Warren and Vice President Gerald Ford speaking. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Oval Office reception room. Gerald Ford, Jerry Warren.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3363-05-13, President Nixon seated at his Oval Office desk during a meeting with Vice President Gerald Ford concerning the transfer of power for the Presidency. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Oval Office. President Nixon, Gerald Ford.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3363-06, President Nixon seated at his Oval Office desk during a meeting with Vice President Gerald Ford concerning the transfer of power for the Presidency. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Oval Office. President Nixon, Gerald Ford.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3363-09, President Nixon seated at his Oval Office desk during a meeting with Vice President Gerald Ford concerning the transfer of power for the Presidency. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Oval Office. President Nixon, Vice President Gerald Ford.

Roll WHPO-E3364 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3364-01, Special Assistant Stephen Bull speaking to President Nixon at the Oval Office desk. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Oval Office. President Nixon, Stephen Bull.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3364-01-02, Special Assistant Stephen Bull speaking to President Nixon at the Oval Office desk and then departing the room. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Oval Office. President Nixon, Unidentified man.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3364-03, President Nixon ascending the front steps to the Executive Office Building. (EOB). 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Executive Office Building. President Nixon.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3364-03-07, President Nixon ascending the front steps to the Executive Office Building. (EOB). 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Executive Office Building. President Nixon.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3364-04, President Nixon ascending the front steps to the Executive Office Building. (EOB). 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Executive Office Building. President Nixon.

Roll WHPO-E3365 Photographer: Schumacher, Karl | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3365-06A-07A, Special Assistant Stephen Bull speaking to President Nixon at the Oval Office desk, photographer Oliver "Ollie" Atkins photographing scene. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Oval Office. President Nixon, Stephen Bull, Oliver "Ollie" Atkins.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3365-07A, Special Assistant Stephen Bull speaking to President Nixon at the Oval Office desk while photographer Oliver "Ollie" Atkins stands nearby holding a camera. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Oval Office. President Nixon, Stephen Bull, Oliver "Ollie" Atkins.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3365-08A-12A, President Nixon ascending the stairs to the EOB, Executive Office Building. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. EOB, Executive Office Building. President Nixon.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3365-10A, President Nixon ascending the stairs to the EOB, Executive Office Building. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. EOB, Executive Office Building. President Nixon.

Roll WHPO-E3366 Photographer: Knudsen, Robert L. | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3366-, President Nixon's last White House lunch plate of pineapple and cottage cheese. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3366-08A, President Nixon's last White House lunch plate of pineapple and cottage cheese. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3366-14A, An aide carries President Nixon's last White House lunch plate of pineapple and cottage cheese as he walks along the Colonnade. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Colonnade.

Roll WHPO-E3367 Photographer: Knudsen, Robert L. | Color or B&W: Color

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3367-, President Nixon's last White House lunch plate of pineapple and cottage cheese. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3367-04A, President Nixon's last White House lunch plate of pineapple and cottage cheese. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3367-09A, Staff preparing President Nixon's last White House lunch plate of pineapple and cottage cheese. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House. Staff.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3367-12A, A staff member carries President Nixon's last White House lunch plate of pineapple and cottage cheese as he walks along the White House Colonnade. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Colonnade.

Roll WHPO-E3368 Photographer: Knudsen, Robert L. | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3368-02-09, Crowds standing outside White House by the gates during President Nixon's last days in office. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. crowds.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3368-03, Ray Price sitting at his desk and working on President Nixon's resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Raymond Price.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3368-10-33, Ray Price writing President Nixon's resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Raymond Price.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3368-12, Crowds standing outside White House by the gates during President Nixon's last days in office. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. crowds.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3368-16, Ray Price sitting at his desk and working on President Nixon's resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Ray Price.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3368-31, Ray Price reviewing a draft of President Nixon's resignation speech with an aide. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Ray Price, aide.

Roll WHPO-E3369 Photographer: Schumacher, Karl | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3369-, Presidential secretary Rose Mary Woods in her office. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Rose Mary Woods's Office. Rose Mary Woods.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3369-04, Rose Mary Woods standing next to a bookshelf in her West Wing office on the day she works on the president's resignation speech and packs up his office. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Rose Mary Woods's Office. Rose Mary Woods.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3369-05, Rose Mary Woods seated at her desk in the West Wing on the day she works on the president's resignation speech and packs up his office. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Rose Mary Woods's Office. Rose Mary Woods.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3369-06, Presidential secretary Rose Mary Woods seated at her desk in her office. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Rose Mary Woods's Office. Rose Mary Woods.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3369-08, Rose Mary Woods and Marje Acker stand by a fireplace in Woods' West Wing office on the day they work on the president's resignation speech and pack up his office. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Rose Mary Woods's Office. Rose Mary Woods, Marje Acker.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3369-10, Rose Mary Woods and Marje Acker stand in Woods' West Wing office on the day they work on the president's resignation speech and pack up his office. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Rose Mary Woods's Office. Rose Mary Woods, Marje Acker.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3369-12, Presidential secretary Rose Mary Woods standing near a fireplace in her office. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Rose Mary Woods's Office. Rose Mary Woods.

Roll WHPO-E3370 Photographer: Schumacher, Karl | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3370-, James St. Clair meeting with White House staff members. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. James St. Clair.

Roll WHPO-E3371 Photographer: Schumacher, Karl | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3371-, Fred Buzhardt meeting with White House staff. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C.

Roll WHPO-E3372 Photographer: Knudsen, Robert L. | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3372-02-04, Unidentified staff members in various White House business office rooms during President Nixon's last days in office. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Unknown.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3372-03, The unoccupied Oval Office. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Oval Office.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3372-04, An unoccupied Air Force One. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Air Force One.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3372-08-19, President Nixon meeting with Ron Ziegler. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Executive Office Building. President Nixon, Ron Ziegler.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3372-11A, President Nixon walking down the steps of the Executive Office Building with Ron Ziegler. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Executive Office Building. President Nixon, Ron Ziegler.

Roll WHPO-E3373 Photographer: Knudsen, Robert L. | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3373-, Crowds standing in front of White House along the fence and gates during President Nixon's last days in office. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C.

Roll WHPO-E3374 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3374-, President Nixon seated informally during a meeting with Congressional leaders the day before his official resignation the next day, August 9. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Executive Office Building, (EOB), President's office. President Nixon, Carl Albert, John Rhodes, Mike Mansfield, James Eastland, Hugh Scott.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3374-04A, President Nixon seated informally during a meeting with Congressional leaders the day before his official resignation the next day, August 9. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Executive Office Building, (EOB), President's office. President Nixon, Carl Albert, John Rhodes, Mike Mansfield, James Eastland, Hugh Scott.

Roll WHPO-E3375 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3375-01-03, Raymond Price in his office, writing President Nixon's resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Ray Price's office. Raymond Price.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3375-04-09, President Nixon's delivering his official televised resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. President Nixon.

Roll WHPO-E3376 Photographer: Knudsen, Robert L. | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3376-, President Nixon's delivering his official televised resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. President Nixon.

Roll WHPO-E3377 Photographer: Knudsen, Robert L. | Color or B&W: Color

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3377-, President Nixon delivering his televised resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. President Nixon.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3377-04A, President Nixon delivering his televised resignation speech. View is from Nixon's right side looking through what appears to be a window or lattice of some sort. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. President Nixon.

Roll WHPO-E3378 Photographer: FITZPATRICK | Color or B&W: Color

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3378-, President Nixon's delivering his televised resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. President Nixon.

Roll WHPO-E3379 Photographer: Knudsen, Robert L. | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3379-, White House Office after resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House. Henry Kissinger, David Eisenhower, Carl Albert, John Rhodes, Mike Mansfield, James Eastland, Hugh Scott.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3379-13, Henry Kissinger speaks with Alexander Haig in a White House office following President Nixon's resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House. Henry Kissinger, Alexander Haig, James St. Clair.

Roll WHPO-E3380 Photographer: Schumacher, Karl | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3380-03A-10A, 13A-17A, 24A-31A, 35A-36A, White House Press Office staff members gathered in the department offices, on the day of President Nixon's televised resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Press Offices. unidentified White House Press Office staff members, unidentified White House staff workers.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3380-11A-12A, An unidentified White House Press Office secretary working at her desk on the day of President Nixon's televised resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Press Offices. unidentified secretary.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3380-18A-22A, Ron Ziegler seated at his White House Press Office desk talking with Frank Gannon and Diane Sawyer on the day of President Nixon's televised resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Press Offices. Ron Ziegler, Frank Gannon, Diane Sawyer.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3380-23A, White House Press Office staff members gathered in the department watching President Nixon's televised resignation speech on small TVs. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Press Offices. unidentified White House Press Office staff members, unidentified White House staff workers.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3380-32A-34A, White House Press Office secretary stenographer using a stenograph machine to type the transcript of President Nixon's resignation speech, while watching it live, from a television set at her desk. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Press Offices. unidentified secretary.

Roll WHPO-E3381 Photographer: Schumacher, Karl | Color or B&W: B&W

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3381-, White House Press Office staff members gathered in the department offices, on the day of President Nixon's televised resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. White House, Press Offices. unidentified White House Press Office staff members, unidentified White House staff workers.

Roll WHPO-E3396 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: Color

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3396-01A-03A, President Nixon meeting with General Scowcroft, William Simon, and Kenneth Rush. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. President Nixon, Brent Scowcroft, William Simon, Kenneth Rush.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3396-05A-07A, Senators Hugh Scott, John Rhodes, and Barry Goldwater after delivering their resignation message to Nixon. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. Hugh Scott, John Rhodes, Barry Goldwater.

Roll WHPO-E3397 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: Color

• Frame(s): WHPO-E3397-02, President Nixon seated at a desk delivering his televised resignation speech, Al Snyder (President Nixon's Deputy Special Assistant and TV consultant) standing to the side looking on. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. President Nixon, Al Snyder.
• Frame(s): WHPO-E3397-02-05, President Nixon seated at a desk delivering his televised resignation speech. 8/8/1974, Washington, D.C. President Nixon.

The White House Communications Agency Sound Recordings Collection contains public statements that took place between 1969 and 1974. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

B - Vice-Presidential (Agnew and Ford)

• WHCA-SR-B-277
  Posthumous Medal of Honor presentation ceremony with remarks by Vice President Ford. (8/8/1974, Blair House, Washington, D.C.)
  
  Runtime: 0:10:42
  
  Production credits: Audio feed supplied by WHCA; Recorded by RHS(initials of WHCA engineer)
  
  Original Format: 1/4-inch reel-to-reel audiotape. Original source type: Original. Technical notes: 1 minutes and 10 seconds of noise at beginning and 2 minutes and 44 seconds of silence at end of recording removed from access copies.

P - Formal Presidential Remarks

• WHCA-SR-P-740801
  President Nixon Address to the Nation Announcing Decision To Resign the Office of President of the United States. (8/8/1974, Oval Office, the White House)
  
  Runtime: 0:15:39
  
  Keywords: Watergate, resignation
  
  Production credits: Audio feed supplied by WHCA (per tape case); Mult Feed by CBS; Recorded by ROW (or RAW) (initials of WHCA engineer)
  
  Original Format: 1/4-inch reel-to-reel audiotape. Original source type: Original.

S - White House Press Office Briefings (continuation of the L-series)

• WHCA-SR-S-710
  Press briefing by Gerald Warren. (8/8/1974, White House Press Lobby)
  
  Runtime: 0:01:14
  
  Keywords: Briefings, press conferences, interviews, media, press secretary, impeachment, resignations, Watergate, Senate committee hearings, investigations, testimony, testify, cover-ups, break-in, burglary, theft, plumbers, scandals.
  
  Production credits: Audio feed supplied by WHCA; Recorded by DM (initials of WHCA engineer)
  
  Original Format: 1/4-inch reel-to-reel audiotape. Original source type: Original.
• WHCA-SR-S-711
  Press briefing by Ronald Ziegler. (8/8/1974, White House Press Lobby)
  
  Runtime: 0:01:33
  
  Keywords: Briefings, press conferences, interviews, media, press secretary, impeachment, resignations, Watergate, Senate committee hearings, investigations, testimony, testify, cover-ups, break-in, burglary, theft, plumbers, scandals.
  
  Production credits: Audio feed supplied by WHCA; Recorded by DAN (initials of WHCA engineer)
  
  Original Format: 1/4-inch reel-to-reel audiotape. Original source type: Original. Technical notes: 1 hour, 33 minutes and 24 seconds of silence at end of recording removed from access copies.
• WHCA-SR-S-712
  Press briefing by Ronald Ziegler, announcing his departure. (8/8/1974, White House Press Lobby)
  
  Runtime: 0:08:43
  
  Keywords: Briefings, press conferences, interviews, media, press secretary, impeachment, resignations, Watergate, Senate committee hearings, investigations, testimony, testify, cover-ups, break-in, burglary, theft, plumbers, scandals, Presidents, families.
  
  Production credits: Audio feed supplied by CBS; Recorded by JDF (initials of WHCA engineer)
  
  Original Format: 1/4-inch reel-to-reel audiotape. Original source type: Original. Technical notes: 1 hour, 27 minutes and 55 seconds of silence at end of recording removed from access copies.

The White House Communications Agency Videotape Collection contains “off-the-air” recordings of televised programs produced between 1968 and 1974. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

• WHCA-7121
  CBS Special Reports on President Nixon's Resignation. John D. Ehrlichman, former chief domestic advisor to the President.
  NBC
  Runtime: 00:16:42
• WHCA-7122A
  NBC Special Reports on Resignation. John D. Ehrlichman, former chief domestic advisor to the President.
  NBC
  Runtime: 1:00
• WHCA-7122B
  ABC Special Reports on Resignation. John D. Ehrlichman, former chief domestic advisor to the President.
  CBS
  Runtime: 1:00
• WHCA-7123
  President Nixon's Resignation Speech and Commentary. John D. Ehrlichman, former chief domestic advisor to the President.
  CBS
  Runtime: 00:46:00
• WHCA-7123A
  President Nixon's Resignation Speech and Commentary. John D. Ehrlichman, former chief domestic advisor to the President.
  CBS
  Runtime: 1:00
• WHCA-7124
  NBC Evening News and Special Coverage of Nixon's Resignation. John D. Ehrlichman, former chief domestic advisor to the President; H.R. Haldeman, former Assistant to the President.
  CBS
  Runtime: 01:37:10
• WHCA-7125
  Special Coverage of Nixon's Resignation. H.R. Haldeman, former Assistant to the President.
  CBS
  Runtime: 1:30
• WHCA-7126
  Special Coverage of President Nixon's Resignation. H.R. Haldeman, former Assistant to the President.
  CBS
  Runtime: 1:30
• WHCA-7127
  Special Coverage of President Nixon's Resignation. H.R. Haldeman, former Assistant to the President.
  ABC
  Runtime: 01:31:22
• WHCA-7128
  CBS Evening News and Special Coverage of President Nixon's Resignation. H.R. Haldeman, former Assistant to the President.
  ABC
  Runtime: 01:26:53
• WHCA-7129
  Special Coverage of Nixon's Resignation". H.R. Haldeman, former Assistant to the President.
  ABC
  Runtime: 01:33:00
• WHCA-7130
  Special Coverage of Nixon's Resignation". H.R. Haldeman, former Assistant to the President.
  ABC
  Runtime: 01:33:10
• WHCA-7131
  Special Coverage of Nixon's Resignation". H.R. Haldeman, former Assistant to the President.
  ABC
  Runtime: 01:33:00

• New York Times of August 8, 1974

• AP Images photos from August 8, 1974
• Getty Images photos from August 8, 1974

The Vanderbilt Television News Archive is the world's most extensive and complete archive of television news. They have been recording, preserving and providing access to television news broadcasts of the national networks since August 5, 1968.

• August 1974 Broadcast Index

Wikipedia is a free encyclopedia that anyone can edit.

• August 8, 1974