The Story Of Richard Nixon Trying To “Silence” Johnny Cash In 1970
THE JOHNNY CASH SHOW - Shoot Date: March 17, 1969. (Photo by ABC Photo Archives/ABC via Getty Images) JOHNNY CASH
Richard Nixon, one of the most controversial presidents in U.S. history, had a knack for clashes with public figures. Known for his polarizing actions during the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal, he also had a habit of trying to influence celebrities. One such figure was country legend Johnny Cash.
Nixon’s Attempt to “Neutralize” Cash
In 1970, Tex Ritter, a Tennessee Republican and country music star, ran for a U.S. Senate seat. His opponent in the primary was Nixon’s preferred candidate, Bill Brock. Nixon’s advisors worried that Cash, with his deep ties to country music and Ritter, might publicly support Ritter and sway voters in his favor.
To prevent this, Nixon invited Johnny Cash to the White House. Murray Chotiner, Nixon’s advisor, wrote in a memo, “Johnny Cash is great with a certain block of voters in Tennessee.” He added, “Obviously, he will not say or do anything against Tex Ritter, who is running for the U.S. Senate against Congressman Bill Brock, for the GOP nomination.”
Chotiner’s plan was clear: “At the Johnny Cash Evening at The White House, it will be most helpful if privately the President can neutralize Johnny Cash so that he does not campaign for Tex Ritter.” He even suggested, “It will also be helpful if he could come into Tennessee after the primary.”
What happened during their conversation remains a mystery, but Nixon seemingly got his wish. Cash never publicly endorsed Ritter. Whether this silence was due to Nixon’s influence is uncertain, but Ritter ultimately lost to Brock by a wide margin.
Cash’s Defiant 1972 Visit
In 1972, Cash returned to the White House to discuss prison reform with Nixon. After their meeting, Nixon requested Cash perform a few songs for the gathered journalists. Cash obliged—but instead of performing crowd-pleasers, he sang the politically charged “What Is Truth” and “The Ballad of Ira Hayes.”
Despite Nixon’s attempts to use him for political gain, Johnny Cash proved he couldn’t be controlled. Whether through silence or bold song choices, Cash stayed true to his principles, letting his voice and music speak for themselves.
