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Today in History: Butterfield Discloses Secret Oval Office Taping System

7/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On July 13 1973, Senate Watergate investigators questioned White House deputy assistant to President Alexander Butterfield, who confirmed that President Nixon had installed a continuous audio-recording system in the Oval Office and other executive areas. The disclosure exposed a key piece of evidence that later proved pivotal in the scandal leading to Nixon’s resignation.

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Story summary

On July 13 1973, Senate Watergate investigators questioned White House deputy assistant to President Alexander Butterfield, who confirmed that President Nixon had installed a continuous audio-recording system in the Oval Office and other executive areas. The disclosure exposed a key piece of evidence that later proved pivotal in the scandal leading to Nixon’s resignation.