Profile of Trump Chief of Staff Susie Wiles Highlights Complex Role and Controversies
A Vanity Fair profile based on 11 interviews conducted during Donald Trump's first year back in office provides an in-depth look at Susie Wiles, Trump's White House chief of staff. Wiles described Trump as having an alcoholic's personality and an eye for vengeance, and she offered opinions on figures such as JD Vance, Elon Musk, and USAID, while noting instances of selective quoting in the article.
The piece raises questions about Wiles's motivations and her future in the role. Some interpret the profile as a bid to address conscience and solidify her legacy; critics argue it was an attempt to salvage her reputation amidst controversies. Chris Whipple, who conducted the interviews, stated that Wiles's remarks are not an exit strategy but rather a candid expression of her private views.
Wiles has a long-standing Republican operative background, having worked for figures like Jack Kemp and Ronald Reagan. She led Trump's Florida campaigns in 2016 and 2020, assisted in the rise of Ron DeSantis, and co-chaired Trump's 2024 campaign alongside Chris LaCivita. Viewed as a moderate Republican, Wiles was selected as Trump's chief of staff to run a tighter operation and attempt to curb his worst instincts by earning his respect.
Trump credited Wiles with persuading him to return to the campaign ahead of the 2026 midterm elections during an event in Mount Pocono in December 2025. However, tensions within the GOP were evident as DeSantis publicly and privately rebuked Wiles. Shortly before DeSantis dropped out in January, Wiles posted a blunt message on social media responding to his campaign website update with "Bye, bye."
Criticism of Wiles continues, with figures like Michael Steele questioning whether she will remain in her role amid fallout from management decisions. Tara Setmayer describes Wiles as a female power player who navigates MAGA politics and may have sacrificed some principles. Some argue she has enabled authoritarian tendencies by not setting firm boundaries.
