Susie Wiles, who has steered President-elect Donald Trump’s campaign over the last two years, is set to step into the role of chief of staff when Trump takes office in January. Trump praised Wiles’ pivotal contributions to his political journey, describing her as a key player in both his 2016 and 2020 campaigns.
“Susie Wiles helped bring about one of the greatest political successes in American history,” he said, commending her as “tough, smart, and widely respected.” Trump also noted that Wiles will be the first woman in U.S. history to hold this influential position, adding that her dedication to the country will make her an asset in the White House.
Trump jokes about Wiles’ behind-the-scenes style, calling her “the ice baby.”
The appointment marks Trump’s first official staffing announcement following his election victory on Wednesday morning. Known for her expertise as a GOP strategist in Florida, Wiles worked alongside Chris LaCivita in running Trump’s third presidential campaign.
Despite operating in a competitive, male-dominated field, she managed to maintain strong support among Trump allies. Her selection drew praise from Vice President-elect JD Vance, who wrote on X, “This is excellent news. Susie has been an invaluable asset to President Trump and will bring the same dedication to the White House.”
Wiles’ low-profile approach was evident when she declined Trump’s invitation to speak at his victory address. Trump humorously acknowledged her preference for staying behind the scenes, calling her “the ice baby” and remarking that “she’s not in the background.”
Wiles previously led Trump’s campaign efforts in Florida in 2016 and later worked on Ron DeSantis’s gubernatorial campaign, although she eventually left the team due to internal disagreements. The chief of staff role is considered one of the most powerful in the White House, second only to the president.
Wiles will now be tasked with managing Trump’s often divided inner circle, a position that proved challenging in his first term, during which he appointed four different chiefs of staff, beginning with Reince Priebus and later John Kelly, who has since criticized Trump. Wiles, who brings her own legacy to the position, is the daughter of former NFL broadcaster Pat Summerall.
