Trump Makes History with First Female White House Chief of Staff

Susie Wiles, White House chief of staff

Wiles, 67, a seasoned political strategist from Florida, played a crucial role in Trump’s successful third presidential campaign, alongside her fellow campaign manager Chris LaCivita. Her appointment comes as Trump prepares for his return to the White House on January 20, with a series of staffing announcements expected in the coming days.

As White House chief of staff, Wiles will hold significant power as the president's gatekeeper, managing the flow of information, overseeing staff, organizing the president's schedule, and liaising with other government departments and lawmakers. The chief of staff role has historically required strong leadership and organizational skills, attributes Wiles has demonstrated throughout her long career in politics.

“Susie is tough, smart, innovative, and universally admired,” Trump said in a statement. “I have no doubt that she will make our country proud.”

A Trusted Ally
Trump, who has spent the past several days at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach following his victory over Democratic challenger Kamala Harris, has been mulling over a range of personnel choices for his new administration. While many of the figures under consideration are veterans from his first term, Wiles’ appointment signals Trump’s confidence in her ability to bring stability and discipline to his leadership.

In a statement made during his victory speech on Wednesday, Trump singled out Wiles for her behind-the-scenes efforts in managing his campaign. "Susie likes to stay in the back, let me tell you," Trump said, as Wiles stood modestly in the background. "We call her the ice maiden."

Those who have worked with Wiles describe her as a calm, strategic force with a no-nonsense approach to getting results. Republican strategist Ford O'Connell praised Wiles as “a strong woman and a true leader with a proven track record of getting things done.”

A Career Built on Leadership
Wiles’ career spans decades of political experience, including her work on Ronald Reagan’s 1980 campaign, her involvement in Governor Ron DeSantis’ successful 2018 gubernatorial race in Florida, and her advisory role in Trump’s 2016 and 2020 campaigns. Her reputation as a disciplined, methodical operator has earned her the respect of both allies and opponents.

Wiles’ selection comes amid reports that other high-profile figures, including former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and former White House domestic policy adviser Brooke Rollins, were also considered for the role. However, sources say Trump ultimately chose Wiles for her unique ability to navigate the complexities of the White House while maintaining a level of independence and strategic foresight.

More Changes on the Horizon
With the chief of staff position now settled, attention is turning to other key appointments in Trump’s second administration. Republican Representative Elise Stefanik, a staunch ally of the president, is said to be under consideration for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Meanwhile, former U.S. Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell and Senator Bill Hagerty, a former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, are reportedly being eyed for the position of Secretary of State.

Though speculation about these appointments continues to swirl, Trump has yet to make any official announcements. As his transition team works to finalize these choices, the appointment of Susie Wiles to one of the most powerful positions in Washington marks a historic step forward for the Trump administration—and for women in U.S. politics.

A New Era for the White House
For many, Wiles' appointment represents a moment of change, as Trump looks to chart a new course for his leadership in the White House, with a team that blends familiar faces with new perspectives. As the first woman to hold the chief of staff role, Wiles’ leadership will no doubt be watched closely as she helps steer the president through the complex political landscape that lies ahead.