By Susie Wiles intends to make sure things are different this time around for President Trump. The president-elect’s pick for chief of staff recently told Axios that her leadership will prioritize discipline, unity, and a sharp focus on advancing the administration’s objectives. Known for her no-nonsense approach and aversion to internal drama, Wiles has emphasized that there will be no room for self-serving agendas or behind-the-scenes infighting under her watch.
A seasoned political strategist, Wiles is set to become the first woman to hold this role in a Trump administration—a position she earned through her steady leadership during the 2024 campaign. Her reputation for loyalty, discretion, and effective management distinguished her in a campaign that operated with notably fewer leaks and internal conflicts compared to Trump’s earlier political efforts. Wiles’ calm and strategic style has made her one of Trump’s most trusted confidantes, and her leadership approach signals a shift toward a more structured and cohesive West Wing.
Central to Wiles’ vision for the next administration is a focus on teamwork, accountability, and execution, writes Axios.
Incoming White House chief of staff Susie Wiles tells Axios in an interview that she aims for the West Wing to be a no-drama zone for staff. If that works, it won’t be the chaotic den of self-sabotaging that stymied the early days of President-elect Trump’s first term.
“I don’t welcome people who want to work solo or be a star,” Wiles, whose boss calls her the Ice Maiden, said by email. “My team and I will not tolerate backbiting, second-guessing inappropriately, or drama. These are counterproductive to the mission.”
Why it matters: Trump’s 2024 campaign was more organized and less leaky than any previous Trump team. Wiles, who was co-campaign manager, gets much of the credit. Two weeks from today, she’ll bring her formula to Washington.
Nicknamed “The Ice Maiden” by Trump for her composed and unflappable demeanor, Wiles has carved out a reputation as a steady force amid political turbulence. Unlike some of her predecessors, who often found themselves in public clashes with Trump or caught in media firestorms, Wiles prefers to operate behind the scenes. Yet her influence remains undeniable. Her recent involvement during a critical moment in House Speaker Mike Johnson’s reelection bid—evidenced by her behind-the-scenes discussions with key allies like Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene—illustrated her reach and authority within Trump’s political orbit.
MTG speaking on the phone with incoming White House CoS Susie Wiles, right before the Speaker vote
Great photo by @evelynpix pic.twitter.com/9Cpiqyf6Zt
— Gram Slattery (@G_Slattery) January 3, 2025
Looking ahead, Wiles has laid out an ambitious policy roadmap for Trump’s potential second term. Priorities include expanding domestic energy production, cutting federal regulations, and tightening border enforcement. She has also emphasized the importance of acting swiftly in the early months of the administration, viewing the period between inauguration and the 2026 midterm elections as a vital window for delivering on campaign promises. Wiles has underscored the necessity of maintaining momentum and ensuring consistent, high-performance standards from all members of the team.
Her experiences on the 2024 campaign trail have deeply informed her leadership philosophy. Wiles attributes the campaign’s success to well-defined objectives, strong accountability measures, and a culture of mutual support. She intends to replicate this structure in the White House, fostering an environment where every team member understands their role in advancing Trump’s vision.
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