Alexander Butterfield, Watergate Tapes Revealer, Dies

Alexander Butterfield, a former top aide to President Richard Nixon, has died at the age of 99. He is widely known for his pivotal role in the Watergate scandal, where he disclosed the existence of a secret taping system in the White House. This revelation dramatically altered the course of the investigation, providing crucial evidence that ultimately led to Richard Nixon's resignation in 1974. Alexander Butterfield had overseen the installation of these voice-activated recording devices in various locations, including the Oval Office, in 1971. His testimony before the Senate Watergate Committee in July 1973 confirmed the system's existence, triggering a year-long legal battle over access to the tapes. The recordings, particularly the 'smoking gun' tape, proved Richard Nixon's involvement in the cover-up of the 1972 Democratic National Committee headquarters break-in. After leaving the White House, Alexander Butterfield briefly served as administrator of the United States — Federal Aviation Administration before being forced out in 1975 and later working in the private sector. He was never charged with wrongdoing in the scandal.