Trump appoints Susan Wiles as first female White House chief of staff

President-elect Donald Trump has appointed his campaign manager, Susan Summerall Wiles, as White House Chief of Staff, marking the first major appointment since his victory in this week’s election. The announcement, confirmed on Thursday, solidifies Wiles’ role as a key figure in Trump’s upcoming administration and makes her the first woman to hold the position in U.S. history.

Vice President-elect JD Vance confirmed the appointment on social media, celebrating Wiles’ contributions to Trump’s campaign. “This is great news. Susie was a huge asset to President Trump on the campaign and will be a huge asset in the White House,” Vance posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. “She’s also just a really good person. Onward!”

Wiles’ appointment comes as Trump prepares for his return to the White House, with his inauguration scheduled for January 20. In a statement posted on X, Trump expressed his confidence in Wiles’ capabilities, crediting her as a pivotal force behind his successful 2024 presidential campaign.

“Susie Wiles just helped me achieve one of the greatest political victories in American history,” Trump said. “She is tough, smart, innovative, and is universally admired and respected. Susie will continue to work tirelessly to Make America Great Again. It is a well-deserved honor to have Susie as the first-ever female Chief of Staff in United States history. I have no doubt that she will make our country proud.”

Susan Summerall Wiles: A seasoned strategist

Wiles, 67, brings decades of political experience to her new role. She is the daughter of NFL player and sportscaster Pat Summerall and began her career in the 1970s in Washington, working for New York Rep. Jack Kemp and later for President Ronald Reagan. She eventually relocated to Florida, where she advised Jacksonville mayors, served as a key strategist in multiple statewide campaigns, and helped Republican Rick Scott win the governorship in 2010.

Wiles’ relationship with Trump dates back to 2016, when she managed his Florida campaign, a crucial battleground that helped secure his victory. She later played a significant role in Trump’s 2020 reelection effort and was instrumental in his latest bid, which saw him defeat a crowded Republican primary field.

Despite her close ties with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Wiles and DeSantis fell out after the 2018 gubernatorial race, leading to tensions between her and DeSantis’ allies. Nonetheless, Wiles’ loyalty to Trump remained unwavering, and she rejoined his team to lead his primary campaign against DeSantis in the 2024 race.

Navigating challenges and building loyalty

Known for her behind-the-scenes approach, Wiles managed to impose discipline on Trump’s third campaign, which insiders praised as more organized than his previous efforts. Her ability to earn Trump’s respect without clashing with his often unorthodox style was seen as a significant factor in her rise to the Chief of Staff position.

“Susie likes to stay in the back,” Trump said during a Florida rally on November 6. “We call her the ice maiden.” Yet, Wiles was not afraid to take on mundane tasks, such as gathering voter commitments at campaign events, demonstrating her hands-on leadership style.

Wiles’ selection came after Trump considered several high-profile candidates, including former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Brooke Rollins, the former acting director of his Domestic Policy Council. According to sources, Trump ultimately chose Wiles for her steadfast loyalty and track record of success.