On Thursday, November 7th, President Donald J. Trump announced that Susie Summerall Wiles will serve as his White House Chief of Staff, making her the first woman ever appointed to the position in U.S. history. Wiles, who was instrumental in Trump’s 2024 campaign, has earned a reputation as a strategic force in Republican politics, known for her ability to run disciplined, highly organized operations in an often chaotic environment.
“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,” President Trump said in a statement. “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.”
Wiles, a veteran of Florida politics, previously managed Trump’s Florida operations in the 2016 campaign and later served as a senior adviser during the 2024 race. Known for her quiet, behind-the-scenes presence, Wiles is credited with turning around Trump’s campaign and securing a major Electoral College victory. Her disciplined leadership has been crucial in shaping Trump’s success over the years, particularly after his 2020 loss, when she helped refine the campaign’s strategy for a strong comeback.
Known for her low-profile approach, Wiles has managed to keep fringe voices in Trump’s orbit at bay, reportedly establishing conditions before accepting the role. Insiders indicated she sought more control over who could access Trump, aiming to streamline the flow of advisors and family members who, during Trump’s first term, often bypassed formal channels. Wiles reportedly told Trump, “The clown car can’t come into the White House at will,” to which Trump agreed.
Her appointment has received praise from prominent Republicans, with Vice President-elect JD Vance saying, “This is great news. Susie was a huge asset to President Trump on the campaign and will be a huge asset in the White House. She’s also just a really good person. Onward!” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
This appointment reflects a significant change in Trump’s approach, with Wiles set to bring seasoned, restrained leadership to his administration. Her focus on structure and moderation could redefine the dynamics in Trump’s White House, aiming for a more stable and strategically unified team.
Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, expressed his admiration for Wiles’ dedication, writing, “Susie Wiles becoming Chief of Staff is MASSIVE. She risked her entire political career and potentially becoming a victim of the Biden-Harris lawfare regime for her country. A true patriot. This is a GREAT move for MAGA and America.”
Throughout her career, Wiles has maintained strong credentials in Republican circles, particularly in Florida, where she supported Trump, Governor Ron DeSantis, and Senator Rick Scott. Florida Senator Rick Scott called her “really smart, a hard worker, and a team player.” Wiles helped Scott tap into the Tea Party wave, catapulting him into office despite challenges from the Republican establishment.
As Chief of Staff, Wiles faces the challenge of managing Trump and his team, navigating the complexities of the White House, and overseeing competing factions within the administration. Her selection marks a historic moment, as she will lead in a role traditionally held by men, joining a small group of women breaking barriers in U.S. political leadership. Wiles’ ability to bring structure to an often-fractured political landscape will be critical in ensuring a smooth transition into governance, especially as Trump continues to face legal and political hurdles.
