President-elect Donald Trump has named his campaign manager, Susan Summerall Wiles, as his White House Chief of Staff, set to begin when he assumes office next year.
In his announcement, Trump praised Wiles for her significant role in securing his victory, calling her “tough, smart, innovative, and widely respected.” He noted that Wiles’ appointment is a historic milestone, as she will be the first woman to hold the position of White House Chief of Staff, stating, “It is a well-deserved honor, and I’m confident she will make the country proud.”
Wiles, 67, brings extensive political experience to the role. The Trump transition team is currently selecting key officials for the incoming administration, including leaders of the 15 executive departments such as the secretaries of state and defense, in preparation for the January 20th inauguration. During his victory speech, Trump referred to Wiles as “the ice maiden,” acknowledging her strong presence behind the scenes and her formidable reputation in American politics.
Wiles, often described as a feared but lesser-known political strategist, has a track record of success. She began her political career in Ronald Reagan’s 1980 campaign and played a crucial role in reshaping politics in Florida. In 2010, she helped businessman Rick Scott become Florida’s governor within seven months, and Scott is now a U.S. Senator.
Wiles first connected with Trump during the 2015 Republican presidential primary, becoming co-chair of his Florida campaign, which played a key role in his victory over Hillary Clinton in 2016. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who enlisted Wiles for his successful gubernatorial campaign, called her “the best in the business.”
Wiles collaborated on the Trump campaign with Chris LaCivita, a seasoned Republican strategist, helping to develop a winning strategy for the presidential primary.
In a Politico profile, Wiles, who is the daughter of former football player and broadcaster Pat Summerall, highlighted her traditional political background. Reflecting on the evolution of the Republican Party, she noted, “In my early career, manners and decorum mattered. The GOP has changed, and we must adapt to achieve our goals.”
The role of the White House Chief of Staff is vital, as it involves managing the Executive Office of the President, overseeing daily operations, coordinating staff activities, and advising the president on policy decisions. The Chief of Staff is essentially the president’s top aide and plays a critical role in shaping the administration’s direction and effectiveness.
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