President-elect Donald Trump announced on Thursday, November 8, 2024, that Susie Wiles, one of his two campaign managers, will serve as his White House chief of staff.
This appointment marks a significant step as Trump prepares for his return to the White House on January 20.
As the White House chief of staff, Wiles, 67, will be tasked with managing the White House staff, organizing the president’s schedule, and liaising with other government departments and lawmakers. She will also be the first woman to hold this prestigious position.
In a statement, Trump praised Wiles as “tough, smart, innovative, and universally admired,” expressing confidence in her ability to lead and make the country proud.
Wiles’ low-key, yet influential role has earned her respect within political circles, with many noting her strength and leadership abilities.
This marks the beginning of what is expected to be a flurry of key staffing announcements as Trump prepares for his second term.
During his first term, Trump cycled through four chiefs of staff due to challenges in managing his administration’s dynamic.
Wiles is credited, alongside campaign manager Chris LaCivita, with running a more disciplined campaign for Trump’s third presidential bid, a stark contrast to the chaos of previous campaigns.
Trump himself acknowledged her work during his victory speech, jokingly calling her “the ice maiden” for her preference to stay out of the spotlight.
Wiles’ background includes working on Ronald Reagan’s 1980 campaign, assisting Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in 2018, and serving as a senior adviser in Trump’s 2016 and 2020 campaigns.
Her experience has earned her a reputation for delivering results, with Republican strategist Ford O’Connell describing her as a “true leader.”
Wiles was chosen over other potential candidates, including former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, former acting director of Trump’s Domestic Policy Council Brooke Rollins, and several others.
Other notable figures being considered for top roles in Trump’s administration include U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik for U.N.
Ambassador, former U.S. Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell for Secretary of State, and Republican Senator Bill Hagerty for the same position.
As Trump looks to build a new team for his second term, all eyes will be on the appointments that follow this key selection.
