The Time Magazine Reporter, Hugh Sidey had just leaked the results of a Time poll to Kissinger, who promised to keep it to himself. The poll showed Nixon way ahead in the election. No sooner had Kissinger ended his conversation with Sidey than he shared the poll information with Haldeman. In this fascinating quotation Kissinger breaks his promise to Sidey, but lets Haldeman know that he is doing so. This is an example of the insight the Watergate tapes give us into political behavior where leading public officials think nothing about going back on their word, but they even gain esteem from their colleagues in doing so. It also illustrates a common but not very well known practice regarding leaking. The press not only utilize leaks from high administration officials but in many cases they return the favor and leak information about what stories they are working on, editorials coming or—as in this case—the results of polls. The leaking is not only one way in politics, but the press also leaks to increase the personal bond with the government leakers by reciprocating.
