Buzz Patterson, a retired Air Force officer who once served as a senior military aide to President Bill Clinton, is sharing some behind-the-scenes stories from his time in the White House—and they’re turning heads.
Patterson, who was entrusted with carrying the nuclear “football” during Clinton’s presidency, recently took to social media to describe what it was like working closely with the former First Family from 1996 to 1998. His role meant he was often in close quarters with both Bill and Hillary Clinton—and according to him, the mood in the White House shifted dramatically depending on who was around.
“When Hillary was away, the atmosphere felt relaxed—almost like a college frat party,” Patterson wrote. “But when she was present, the vibe turned tense and uncomfortable.”
He claimed Hillary Clinton was so feared by staff that she was nicknamed “Nazi Schoolmarm” by some within the administration. Patterson added that aides would often avoid crossing paths with her, sometimes even ducking into doorways to steer clear of an encounter.
While his recollections are striking, they’re also deeply critical. Patterson described Hillary as “intimidating,” “vindictive,” and someone who set the tone for a more strained and less professional environment. “She was the dominant force in the building—everyone knew not to get on her bad side,” he said.
He also shared a moment that upset President Clinton himself—refusing to let him stop for food at a restaurant that hadn’t been cleared by the Secret Service. Though Clinton wasn’t pleased, Patterson says he always made sure never to anger Hillary. “I was warned early on: make Bill mad, and you might get yelled at. Make Hillary mad, and it could end your career.”
According to Patterson, Hillary’s attitude toward the military also stood out. He claimed she once tried to limit the wearing of uniforms in the White House, sending a message that the military wasn’t a priority for the administration.
In closing, Patterson didn’t hold back, stating plainly: “The Clintons are deeply corrupt.”
While Patterson’s perspective is certainly controversial, it offers a rare and candid glimpse into life behind the scenes during one of the most watched presidencies in modern history.