Trump Makes History: Susie Wiles Named First Female White House Chief of Staff
ICARO Media Group
**Trump Appoints Susie Wiles as First Female White House Chief of Staff**
In a historic decision, President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Susie Wiles as his White House chief of staff, making her the first woman to hold the influential position. Wiles, who was instrumental in managing Trump’s successful campaign, is known both inside and outside the President-elect's inner circle for her strategic prowess and disciplined approach.
Wiles played a pivotal role in Trump's campaign, which is widely regarded as his most organized and well-executed effort to date. Despite her significant contributions, Wiles often stayed out of the limelight, declining opportunities to speak publicly, including during Trump’s victory celebration. She hesitated to formally accept the title of campaign manager to avoid being a target in a role that has seen considerable turnover under Trump.
This appointment marks Trump’s first significant decision as president-elect and will likely be a critical test for his incoming administration. Wiles, though lacking extensive federal government experience, has earned Trump’s respect and is credited with managing his impulses effectively—not by reprimanding him, but by showing him the benefits of heeding her advice.
During Trump’s first term, he cycled through four chiefs of staff, creating a record-setting level of staff turnover. Many top aides were dismissed or became entangled in ideological conflicts. Trump praised Wiles as tough, smart, and innovative, expressing confidence that she would excel in her role and make the country proud.
Successful chiefs of staff are pivotal to a functional White House, acting as the president’s confidant and gatekeeper. They balance competing priorities and manage the president’s schedule. Chris Whipple, author of "The Gatekeepers," stresses that the most important aspect of the role is the ability to tell the president difficult truths. He acknowledges that while Wiles has proven she can manage Trump, her lack of White House experience is a notable disadvantage.
Wiles is a seasoned Republican strategist based in Florida. She managed Trump’s campaigns in Florida in 2016 and 2020 and also played a key role in Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ 2018 campaign. Wiles previously managed Rick Scott’s 2010 gubernatorial campaign in Florida and briefly led Jon Huntsman’s 2012 presidential bid.
Support for Wiles came from within Trump’s circle, with campaign co-manager Chris LaCivita praising her loyalty and effectiveness. Wiles is seen as a figure who can guide Trump’s moods and impulses, leading to what Trump himself called his best-run campaign.
At various campaign events, Trump publicly lauded Wiles for her leadership. Notably, at a Milwaukee rally, he described her as incredible. Despite occasional lapses, like a profane speech in Pennsylvania where Wiles was seen visibly displeased, Trump acknowledged her efforts to keep him on message at another event in Pittsburgh.