Susie Wiles recently gained global attention after President-elect, Donald Trump appointed her as the 32nd White House Chief of Staff after working as his campaign manager for the just concluded US election.
Wiles, a veteran political strategist, has been a crucial force behind Trump’s campaign successes, particularly in Florida, and her role now places her at the heart of Trump’s new administration.
Here’s a look at 10 things that showcase how Wiles’s experience and political knowledge have shaped her career and contributed to her current position in American politics:
1. Trump’s Campaign Manager: Wiles was Trump’s campaign manager in Florida during the 2016 and 2020 presidential campaigns, helping him secure critical victories in this swing state. Her work on his 2024 campaign solidified her position as a top strategist.
2. Florida Political Influence: Wiles established herself in Florida, where she directed Trump’s operations and later helped Ron DeSantis’s gubernatorial campaign—until she split with him over political differences.
3. Connection to Rick Scott: Wiles’s success with Scott’s campaigns helped solidify her standing in Florida’s Republican circles. This led to further roles with candidates like Ron DeSantis in his 2018 gubernatorial race and her contributions to Donald Trump’s campaigns in Florida.
Her work with Scott has been seen as influential in shaping Florida’s GOP victories and policies over the past decade.
4. Save America PAC Leadership: In 2021, Wiles took charge of Trump’s Save America PAC, managing endorsements and legal support for Trump allies, signaling her loyalty and influence within Trump’s political network.
5. Known for Pragmatism: Unlike many partisan strategists, Wiles is known more for her strategic adaptability than strict ideology, allowing her to navigate high-stakes political landscapes.
6. Family influence to Politics and Sports: Her entry into politics was partly influenced by her connection to Jack Kemp, a former NFL player turned congressman who had been a teammate of her father.
This connection to Kemp helped catalyze her shift from sports to a successful political career, as she leveraged her network and knowledge from her upbringing to establish herself as a skilled strategist.
7. Immediate family Ties: Lanny Wiles, a political consultant who served as Ronald Reagan’s advance man, is Susie Wiles’ spouse. Caroline Wiles and Katie Wiles are the couple’s two daughters. The family’s political ties have been strengthened by the involvement of both daughters in political circles, particularly Caroline’s employment in the Trump administration.
8. Built a Lean Campaign Operation: Wiles’s strategy for Iowa and other areas highlights her preference for a lean, impactful model in political consulting—often prioritizing quality and relevance of contact over sheer quantity.
9. The “Ice Baby” Nickname: Because of her exceptional poise, particularly in politically charged situations, Susie Wiles was dubbed “Ice Baby.” Her ability to maintain composure under duress is well-known; she has managed campaigns for demanding individuals like Donald Trump. Her ability to remain composed and precise has enhanced her reputation as an unflappable strategist, which has helped her successfully lead her candidates through difficult political environments.
10. Trump’s White House Chief of Staff: Her new role as Chief of Staff will involve managing the day-to-day operations of Trump’s administration, a task that few have been able to handle successfully in the past.
Trump’s faith in Wiles and her ability to handle difficult political situations while maintaining a laser-like focus on strategy and outcomes are reflected in her choice as Chief of Staff. Her lengthy campaign experience and special working relationship with Trump may indicate a more efficient approach in the White House throughout her term.
