Donald Trump, the 78-year-old president-elect, has chosen a formidable woman to take on the role of Chief of Staff in the high-stakes corridors surrounding the Oval Office: Susie Wiles, 76. Known for her resilience, discipline, and relentless approach, Wiles has earned a reputation as a “battle-tested general” who maintains her cool under pressure. Her loyalty to Trump is legendary.
Wiles, alongside Chris LaCivita, 58, directed Trump’s successful campaign against Kamala Harris, 60. While LaCivita often took the spotlight, Wiles worked quietly behind the scenes, cementing her status as the true architect of Trump’s victory. Radiant on election night, Trump praised her as the “Ice Queen” on the winner’s stage.
Starting January 20, when Trump is sworn in as the 47th president, Wiles will take on one of the most demanding roles in the West Wing. Trump’s first term saw four Chiefs of Staff (Reince Priebus, John Kelly, Mick Mulvaney, and Mark Meadows) cycle through the position, underscoring the intense nature of the job.
Daughter of famed football player Pat Summerall, Wiles has worked with top Republican figures throughout her career, from Ronald Reagan and Congressman Jack Kemp to Senator Rick Scott and Governor Ron DeSantis. She contributed to Trump’s 2016 and 2020 campaigns, proving her dedication to his political ascent.
Wiles projects a composed image on her Twitter profile, where she wears a blouse, cardigan, earrings, and a gold necklace, her gray hair impeccably styled. However, beneath this “Golden Girl” exterior lies a tough political strategist who has developed a thick skin over decades in the male-dominated world of campaign management. Her leadership saw Trump’s campaign weather attacks from rivals like DeSantis and Nikki Haley, two assassination attempts, and even the Democrats’ candidate switch with minimal leaks or scandals.
“Susie is tough, smart, and innovative — admired and respected by all,” Trump praised her, highlighting her achievement as the first woman in this powerful position.
Her secret to success? Quiet, effective work behind the scenes. Dubbed by The Hill as “the most powerful Republican you’ve never heard of,” Wiles’s low profile has recently come to an end as she steps into the limelight in Washington.
