Donald Trump Announces Campaign Manager, Susie Wiles, As White House Chief Of Staff
Donald Trump announced on Thursday that Susie Wiles, his trusted campaign manager, will be appointed as his White House Chief of Staff. In a statement, Trump praised Wiles for her pivotal role in his political victories.
“Susie Wiles played an essential part in securing one of the greatest political triumphs in American history and contributed significantly to both my 2016 and 2020 campaigns,” the president-elect said. “She is tough, intelligent, innovative, and commands respect across the board. I have full confidence that she will continue her relentless efforts to Make America Great Again. It’s a privilege to have Susie become the first female Chief of Staff in U.S. history, and I know she will make our nation proud.”
CNN reported earlier on Thursday that Wiles had been considered the top candidate for the position, but she had reservations about the role and set certain conditions before accepting the appointment. A key concern was securing more control over who could meet with the president in the Oval Office. According to a source, Wiles insisted on limiting access to the president. “The circus can’t just walk into the White House at will,” the source explained. “And he agrees with her.”
Throughout Trump’s first term, his chiefs of staff struggled to manage a constant stream of informal advisers, family members, and other figures trying to gain access to the president. This chaos often influenced Trump’s decision-making process, as he was known to be swayed by whoever he last spoke with. Wiles was credited with running one of Trump’s most structured and disciplined campaigns, successfully keeping many controversial figures at bay.
As campaign manager, she was responsible for managing Trump’s private plane manifest, a role that required her to limit access to the former president when he hesitated to say “no” to requests. On occasion, she had to confront him about distancing himself from certain individuals. Despite her efforts, however, she faced criticism after allowing far-right figure Laura Loomer to accompany Trump at a debate and a 9/11 memorial.
Brooke Rollins, another potential candidate for the role, ultimately withdrew from consideration on Wednesday. Rollins, who ran the America First Policy Institute after serving in Trump’s first term, recognized that vying for the position would result in a significant power struggle with Wiles.
The Chief of Staff position, widely regarded as the second most influential role in the White House, has never been held by a woman. While other senior government roles, including those in the Cabinet and the judiciary, have seen women in leadership, the position of White House Chief of Staff remains a notable exception.
Wiles, the daughter of late NFL broadcaster Pat Summerall, is a seasoned political strategist with deep roots in Florida’s political landscape. She has been one of Trump’s longest-serving and most trusted advisers. After helping secure Florida in the 2020 election, Wiles continued to serve as Trump’s de facto chief of staff during his post-presidency and led his 2024 campaign.
During his election night speech, Trump praised Wiles, although she opted to stay out of the spotlight, allowing co-campaign manager Chris LaCivita to address the crowd. Her preference for staying in the background has earned her loyalty from Trump and his supporters, many of whom have already publicly endorsed her appointment.
“Susie Wiles ran the most effective of Trump’s campaigns, and it wasn’t even close,” wrote Turning Point USA CEO Charlie Kirk. “She’s disciplined, intelligent, and avoids the limelight. She’d make an outstanding Chief of Staff, and both the president and America would benefit from her leadership in this crucial role.”
