Alexander Butterfield, the Nixon aide who disclosed Watergate tapes, dies at 99

Alexander Butterfield, a key aide to President Nixon, has passed away at 99. He revealed the existence of tape recordings in the Oval Office, which contributed to Nixon's resignation during the Watergate scandal. Butterfield's disclosure came during a Senate hearing in July 1973 and shocked many in Washington. He oversaw a taping system that recorded conversations in several critical areas.

His passing was confirmed by his wife and John Dean, also involved in exposing Watergate wrongdoing. Butterfield later described his role in Nixon's downfall as both heavy and significant. He criticized Nixon, calling him “not an honest man” and felt justice was served when Nixon resigned.