President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Susie Wiles, the de facto manager of his successful campaign, as his White House chief of staff, marking her as the first woman to assume this influential position.
Wiles is highly regarded both within Trump’s inner circle and among outside observers for running what has been described as his most organized and strategic campaign. Known for her discretion, Wiles avoided the spotlight and even declined the opportunity to speak during Trump’s victory celebration early Wednesday morning. By resisting the formal title of “campaign manager,” she managed to sidestep public scrutiny—a savvy move, given Trump’s history of frequent personnel changes in that role.
Wiles’ appointment stands as Trump’s first significant decision as president-elect and could signal a pivotal moment for his incoming administration, which now faces the task of assembling a team to oversee the vast operations of the federal government. Although Wiles lacks extensive experience in federal government, her close relationship with Trump and her strategic influence during the campaign position her as a trusted advisor.
During the campaign, Wiles achieved what few others have managed: she effectively guided Trump’s often impulsive tendencies. Rather than reprimanding him, she earned his respect, demonstrating that he benefitted more from heeding her counsel than disregarding it.
Trump’s previous transition period, eight years ago, diverged significantly from traditional planning. He sidestepped his organized transition team and instead brought in a mix of campaign staff, family members, and Republican insiders, whose infighting overshadowed the first year of his presidency. Many experts believe this chaotic approach set a challenging precedent for a new president unfamiliar with Washington’s workings.
Throughout his first term, Trump cycled through four chiefs of staff, including one acting chief, amid record-breaking staff turnover. Numerous high-ranking aides were dismissed, often due to ideological clashes within a divided West Wing or because Trump resisted feeling “managed.”
Some of Trump’s current advisors are optimistic that Wiles’ selection signals a more cohesive approach for the upcoming term, although it’s expected to retain some unconventional elements compared to previous Democratic and Republican administrations.
