Everything Everywhere Daily · Wednesday, September 2, 2026
Following the Watergate break-in, the White House was accused of destroying evidence and attempting to halt the FBI investigation by pressuring the CIA. A crucial recording, later known as the 'Smoking Gun Tape,' captured Nixon approving a plan to use the CIA to stop the FBI, solidifying suspicions of his involvement in the cover-up.
“On June 22nd, Nixon publicly denied White House involvement in the Watergate break-in.”
“Fearing imminent investigation, Nixon asked the CIA to pressure the FBI to stop its investigation, claiming it was a national security issue. Nixon approved this plan on June 23rd. This conversation was recorded and later became known as the Smoking Gun Tape.”
“The CIA complied with Nixon's request and agreed to help pressure the FBI to end its investigation. However, the FBI refused to end the investigation unless the CIA put the request in writing, something which they refused to do.”