Donald Trump has named Susie Wiles as his White House Chief of Staff, making history as the first woman to hold the influential position. Wiles, who played a crucial role in managing Trump’s successful presidential campaigns, is well-regarded for her ability to run a tightly organized operation and maintain a close working relationship with the President-elect. Her new role will see her at the heart of the administration, where she will wield significant power in shaping policy, managing crises, and overseeing key personnel decisions.
As Chief of Staff, Wiles will hold a critical position of authority, controlling access to Trump, determining appointments, and playing a key part in policy formation. She will coordinate with both cabinet members and governors, manage interagency meetings, and be the person to push legislative priorities with Congress. Wiles will also be expected to act as a gatekeeper for the President’s time, ensuring only the most important issues reach his desk. In this position, she will be present during every significant decision, and perhaps most importantly, she will be the public voice for the President, giving her unprecedented influence within the Trump administration.
Trump has previously acknowledged that one of his major regrets during his first term was hiring the wrong people. Wiles, however, is expected to bring a steady hand to the White House, managing its daily operations and offering advice on policy matters. He is confident that her leadership will ensure a smooth and effective White House operation.
In a statement following her appointment, Trump praised Wiles for her role in securing political victories, saying, “Susie Wiles just helped me achieve one of the greatest political victories in American history, and was an integral part of both my 2016 and 2020 successful campaigns. Susie is tough, smart, innovative, and is universally admired and respected. Susie will continue to work tirelessly to make America great again. It is a well-deserved honor to have Susie as the first-ever female Chief of Staff in United States history. I have no doubt that she will make our country proud.”
At 67, Wiles brings with her a wealth of experience, particularly in Florida politics, where she has led several successful campaigns, including those of Governor Ron DeSantis. The daughter of the late Pat Summerall, a former American football star turned broadcaster, Wiles has long been a prominent figure in political circles, even though she has not worked in Washington for decades. Her appointment signals a fresh start for Trump’s second term, as he looks to build a cohesive and effective team around him.