Nixon News & Notes
Pat Nixon by Heath Hardage Lee
Soon after Richard Nixon became vice president under Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953, the new president recognized one of his VP’s best diplomatic assets:
His wife Pat.
The beginnings of Pat Nixon’s foreign policy expertise began early in her tenure as Second Lady. The president was among the first to notice and nurture her inherent talent for foreign relations. In June of 1953, Eisenhower told his vice president: “I want you to go on a goodwill trip – and take Pat with you.” This lengthy journey throughout Asia would begin in October and last for over two months.
Richard Nixon by Beverly Gage
Richard Nixon refused to take “no” for an answer.
From his childhood through his years in the White House, he prided himself on defying the odds and vanquishing his enemies. Sometimes this impulse served him well, propelling Nixon’s political career forward.
Yet that same determination that fueled his rise also helped bring about his fall. Nixon’s capacity for strategic thinking and political achievement coexisted with a consuming sense of grievance. He could envision bold initiatives abroad and significant reforms at home, yet he increasingly treated criticism as a personal affront and political opposition as a threat to be neutralized. In the end, his fixation on enemies helped undermine a record of accomplishments that might otherwise have secured a far more favorable place in history.
Few initially thought Nixon was destined for greatness. Born in Yorba Linda, California, he came from a struggling Quaker farm family with little money or influence. Two brothers died young, placing a heavy burden on Nixon to hold the family together. Though he was a top student and dependable football player, he was also shy, awkward, and not much fun. No matter how much time he spent in the limelight, Nixon was never quite comfortable there.
Meet Gary Sinise - Richard Nixon Foundation
Join us for an evening with acclaimed actor and advocate Gary Sinise as he takes the stage at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library for a candid conversation and audience Q&A about his new memoir, Graceful Warrior.
The book is a father’s tribute to his late son Mac, a gifted musician and composer who faced a rare bone cancer diagnosis at twenty-seven. Sinise will share Mac’s story and reflect on the love, faith, and family that carries them through.
Each ticket includes a copy of Graceful Warrior. A book signing will follow the talk.
Karl Rove - National Civics Day - Richard Nixon Foundation
One week before the midterms, join Karl Rove for a candid conversation about the choices facing America and the power of civic participation.
The renowned campaign strategist will put today’s political landscape in perspective and explore how everyday citizens shape the future of our nation.
Strategy for America's Next 250 Years: Recap of the 2026 Grand Strategy Summit - Richard Nixon Foundation
On Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, 2026, the Richard Nixon Foundation hosted its annual Grand Strategy Summit at The Ritz-Carlton in Washington. As the nation marks its 250th anniversary, the flagship foreign policy conference brought together senators, members of Congress, administration officials, diplomats and scholars to examine the domestic and foreign policy decisions shaping America today and the America of tomorrow. Conversations spanned counterterrorism, competition with China, America’s alliances, energy, the Middle East and artificial intelligence. Throughout, speakers applied President Nixon’s approach to grand strategy: setting priorities, maintaining the balance of power and explaining policy to the American people.
Guests from the diplomatic corps represented more than 30 countries, with nearly 20 ambassadors in attendance. C-SPAN carried portions of the Summit live.
New generations give former President Richard Nixon’s legacy a second look
Richard Nixon Foundation president Jim Byron and Next 250 PAC founder CJ Pearson discuss the legacy of the late President Richard Nixon on ‘Fox News @ Night.’