Susie Wiles, the woman credited with steering Donald Trump to one of his most significant political victories, has been named his next chief of staff, marking a historic appointment as the first woman to hold the position in U.S. history. Announcing her new role on Thursday, Trump lauded Wiles as "tough, smart, innovative, and universally admired and respected." The 67-year-old strategist is no stranger to the political arena, having previously masterminded Trump's campaign strategies, notably leading him to victory in Florida in 2016.
Wiles' influence in Republican politics has been described as formidable. Known by some as the "ice maiden" for her calm, controlled demeanor, Wiles earned Trump's praise during his victory speech in Florida, where he singled her out repeatedly. "Susie likes to stay in the back, let me tell you," Trump quipped. "We call her the ice maiden... She is not in the background anymore."
Behind her composed exterior, Wiles has built a reputation as a ruthless political operator. She has worked in Republican circles since the late 1970s, starting as a campaign scheduler for Ronald Reagan's 1980 presidential bid. Over the years, she has become a key player in major campaigns, including Trump's, where she helped secure narrow victories through disciplined and highly strategic ground operations.
Wiles' rise to prominence has not been without challenges. Her relationship with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, for whom she ran a successful gubernatorial campaign, soured amid accusations of leaks, leading to her ousting from his team. Though she officially cited health reasons for her departure, friends described it as a low point in her career. "It was a really difficult moment for her," said a friend. However, her fortunes changed when Trump personally called her back to head his campaign in 2020.
Much of Wiles' approach and resilience can be traced to her upbringing. She is the daughter of Pat Summerall, the legendary NFL broadcaster who called 16 Super Bowls. Despite a strained relationship during her youth due to her father's alcoholism, Wiles eventually reconciled with him and played a pivotal role in his recovery. Those who know her well credit her father's influence for her commanding presence and ability to connect with large audiences.
Wiles' career is also marked by a blend of toughness and compassion. "Susie does not f*** around," said Peter Schorsch, a publisher who has known Wiles for years. While she can be uncompromising, as demonstrated when she swiftly cut off a consultant for defying campaign rules, Schorsch noted her "southern grandmotherly kindness" toward those who work for her. She is known to remember the names of volunteers, offer personal advice, and ensure her staff maintains a work-life balance.
John Delaney, who hired Wiles as his chief of staff after she successfully managed his mayoral campaign, described her as "an absolutely brilliant political savant" with unmatched instincts for public sentiment. "She has no ego," Delaney said, emphasizing that Wiles remains focused on helping her principals succeed, even if she does not always agree with their views. This pragmatic approach has made her a trusted, if enigmatic, figure in Trump's orbit.
Her appointment as chief of staff reflects her ability to manage the "craziness" often associated with Trump's campaigns. By maintaining a disciplined approach while allowing Trump to be himself, Wiles has been credited with helping to stabilize operations at Mar-a-Lago and beyond. She balances traditional political decorum with a savvy understanding of Trump's appeal to both the MAGA base and more elite audiences.
Nate Monroe, a columnist for the Florida Times-Union, captured Wiles' paradoxical nature, describing her as both personable and calculating. "As much as she is very well thought of, she is equally feared," he wrote. Despite this, Wiles' personal life remains closely guarded. Friends describe her as a devoted grandmother who enjoys gardening, birdwatching, and attending church.
