The White House, President-elect Donald Trump announced Thursday that Susie Wiles, one of his two campaign managers, will assume the influential role of White House chief of staff. This appointment underscores Trump’s intent to entrust the core of his administration to a well-seasoned political strategist, particularly one who guided his path to victory in the recent election.
Wiles’ appointment not only solidifies her as a pivotal figure in Trump’s inner circle but also establishes a historic precedent as she becomes the first woman to hold the chief of staff role. Her selection is expected to be the first in a series of high-profile staffing announcements as Trump prepares for his return to the White House on January 20. Observers believe that Trump’s selections will largely feature individuals from his previous term, aligning his administration with established allies and proven loyalists.
“Susie is tough, smart, innovative, and is universally admired and respected,” Trump said in a statement on Thursday. “I have no doubt that she will make our country proud.”
Trump, who has been secluded at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, since Tuesday’s election, emerged Thursday evening to make the formal announcement about Wiles. Accompanying him were several of his senior aides, underscoring the continuity of leadership he intends to establish as he reclaims the Oval Office. Trump’s victory over incumbent Democrat Kamala Harris was secured by a narrow margin in critical battleground states, and his strategy relied heavily on Wiles’ strategic foresight and disciplined approach.
Susie Wiles, 67, has long been known as a low-key yet formidable presence in conservative political circles, especially in Florida, where she made her reputation as an operative with a proven track record. Her selection as chief of staff breaks a significant barrier, marking the first time a woman has held this high-ranking White House position, traditionally seen as one of the most demanding roles in government. As chief of staff, Wiles will be responsible for overseeing White House operations, managing Trump’s schedule, coordinating with government departments, and facilitating communication between the president and Congress.
The chief of staff role has traditionally been a gatekeeper position, one that requires a fine balance of diplomatic skills and organizational prowess. Trump’s previous administration cycled through four chiefs of staff, reflecting the challenges that appointees faced in managing Trump’s often unorthodox approach. Many within Trump’s circle have expressed optimism that Wiles, who is praised for her disciplined approach, will provide the stability and order that proved elusive in Trump’s first term.
“Susie is a strong woman and a true leader with a proven track record of getting things done,” noted David Johnson, a Florida-based Republican consultant who has worked alongside her. “She’s the right choice for the job at this moment.”
Wiles’ extensive background in political strategy spans multiple decades and includes work on Ronald Reagan’s 1980 presidential campaign and in Florida’s gubernatorial races, notably helping Governor Ron DeSantis secure victory in 2018. Her association with Trump began in 2016, serving as a senior adviser, and she continued her advisory role during the 2020 campaign. Her latest appointment as campaign manager for Trump’s 2024 bid saw her implement a more disciplined and structured campaign approach compared to previous cycles.
During his victory speech early Wednesday morning, Trump acknowledged both Wiles and her fellow campaign manager, Chris LaCivita, attributing the campaign’s success to their leadership and strategies. “Susie likes to stay in the back, let me tell you,” Trump quipped. “We call her the ice maiden.”
Her reputation for strategic thinking and behind-the-scenes influence has made Wiles a respected figure within the party and a reliable advisor for Trump. Analysts suggest that her influence will likely be critical in a White House that has struggled with internal friction and competing power centers.
As Trump prepares to assume the presidency for the second time, he is reportedly considering other high-profile names from his previous administration for top cabinet positions. According to sources familiar with the transition plans, Trump’s team is evaluating candidates with extensive experience and established loyalty to his political vision.
Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, a California Republican and a staunch Trump ally, was reportedly in consideration for the chief of staff role, but ultimately, Wiles secured the appointment. McCarthy has been a frequent visitor to Mar-a-Lago, underscoring his close relationship with Trump, although he may still play a prominent role in the upcoming administration.
Brooke Rollins, a former acting director of Trump’s Domestic Policy Council, was also a contender for chief of staff. Known for her work on key policy issues, Rollins could find herself positioned within another significant role, possibly focusing on domestic policy once again.
New York Representative Elise Stefanik, a fierce supporter of Trump in Congress, is being considered for the role of U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik’s selection would signal Trump’s intention to maintain a strong conservative stance on foreign policy, potentially echoing his America First agenda from his first term.
Additionally, Trump’s team is evaluating options for Secretary of State, a role expected to take on heightened significance amid ongoing global tensions. Richard Grenell, former Ambassador to Germany and acting Director of National Intelligence during Trump’s first term, is reportedly under consideration. Grenell’s tenure in the intelligence community and his recent meetings with foreign leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, suggest he may be well-suited for the role. Republican Senator Bill Hagerty, a former Ambassador to Japan, has also emerged as a potential candidate, though he declined to comment on his prospects, stating, “I’ll leave the speculation to the speculators.”
Trump’s apparent preference for familiar faces underscores his belief in the value of loyalty and shared experience within his administration. This approach mirrors the strategy he adopted during his previous term, where trust and direct access to the president often determined the effectiveness of his staff. For Trump, the stakes are high, as he aims to carry out campaign promises and navigate a divided political landscape in Washington.
Wiles’ appointment is expected to reassure both Trump supporters and more moderate conservatives who are wary of the president-elect’s return to the White House. Her methodical style and years of experience lend her credibility and signify a possible shift toward a more structured, disciplined administration. This could alleviate concerns among Republican leadership, who have at times been wary of Trump’s more unorthodox tactics.
Sources close to the president-elect have indicated that the transition process is already in motion, with an emphasis on stability and continuity. Trump’s team is carefully selecting individuals who will not only align with his political objectives but who also possess the ability to work efficiently within the high-pressure White House environment.
Insiders say that Trump’s second term may see a greater focus on domestic issues, particularly immigration reform, economic growth, and reducing government regulations, all core themes of his campaign. Foreign policy is also likely to remain a prominent focus, with Grenell and Hagerty’s potential roles suggesting that Trump’s foreign policy will continue to emphasize strong bilateral relationships and a firm stance on national security.
Political analysts speculate that Trump’s second administration could see fewer staff turnovers if Wiles is able to establish a firm organizational framework. Her background in campaign strategy and extensive network within the Republican Party may enable her to bridge gaps and minimize conflicts among the president’s advisors.
