President-elect Donald Trump announced Thursday that Susie Wiles, one of his two campaign managers, will serve as his White House chief of staff. Wiles, a key figure in Trump’s successful campaign, will be the first woman to hold this influential role, which involves overseeing White House staff, managing the president's schedule, and coordinating with government agencies and lawmakers.
“Susie is tough, smart, innovative, and universally admired and respected," Trump said. "I have no doubt that she will make our country proud.”
Wiles, a 67-year-old strategist from Florida, is credited—alongside fellow campaign manager Chris LaCivita—with running a more disciplined campaign operation for Trump’s third presidential bid. During his victory speech, Trump publicly acknowledged their contributions, referring to Wiles as the "ice maiden" for her behind-the-scenes style.
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Trump, who has remained at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida since defeating Democrat Kamala Harris, is preparing a list of candidates for key roles in his upcoming administration. According to sources, familiar faces from Trump’s previous presidency are being considered for prominent positions. Wiles was chosen for chief of staff over other candidates, including former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Brooke Rollins, Trump’s former acting domestic policy director.
Trump allies are also being considered for top roles. New York Representative Elise Stefanik, a staunch supporter, is reportedly in the running to become the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Meanwhile, former U.S. Ambassador to Germany and acting intelligence chief Richard Grenell and Senator Bill Hagerty, a former ambassador to Japan, are among those being considered for secretary of state.
Trump’s first term saw an unusually high turnover for chiefs of staff, with four individuals attempting to manage his famously unrestrained style. Colleagues of Wiles believe she will provide stability and wise counsel in the White House, with Republican strategist Ford O’Connell calling her "a strong woman and a true leader with a proven track record of getting things done."
Wiles brings extensive experience, having worked on Ronald Reagan’s 1980 campaign, advised Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in 2018, and served as a senior adviser on Trump’s 2016 and 2020 campaigns.
