On the morning of November 4, 2025, during an off-year Election Day, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles was engaged in an intense meeting in the Oval Office with President Donald Trump and a select group of his closest advisers, which included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller. The critical agenda hinged on two main topics: the prospect of ending the congressional filibuster and strategies to unseat Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
An engaging anecdote shared by Wiles describes how, while Trump was addressing the filibuster issue, she abruptly stood up, signaling her need to exit the meeting. When Trump questioned whether it was an emergency, Wiles mischievously replied, “It’s an emergency. It doesn’t involve you,” and left him in suspense.
Later, Wiles welcomed a conversation in her office over sandwiches from the White House Mess, where they discussed the myriad challenges confronting Trump’s administration. Their previous conversations had touched on a diverse range of serious matters—from the fallout of the Epstein files to the controversial use of the National Guard in U.S. cities. They also explored Trump’s physical and mental health as well as the concerns surrounding whether he might sidestep the 22nd Amendment to seek a third term.
Wiles is clear about her position: “I’m not an enabler. I’m also not a bitch,” she stated, emphasizing her role and impact. Unlike many senior officials who might choose to speak off the record, Wiles was candid throughout their discussions, offering unfiltered insights into political dynamics within the White House.
Sharing more personal moments, Wiles mentioned their frequent talks on Sundays after church. With a distinct personality behind her title, she describes herself as “Catholic lite,” and humorously remarked on Vice President Vance’s political transformation and ongoing conspiracy theories. She has also labeled Russell Vought, the head of the Office of Management and Budget and a key architect of Project 2025, as a “right-wing absolute zealot.” Wiles even weighed in on Elon Musk’s provocative comments about historical figures, attributing them to possible microdosing.
Notably, Wiles stands out as one of the most powerful figures in Trump’s White House, wielding influence that many believe surpasses that of previous chiefs of staff, largely due to her unique position as a woman. A former Republican chief remarked on her influence, stating, “So many decisions of great consequence are being made on the whim of the president… the only force that can direct or channel that whim is Susie.”
Amidst the high-stakes political landscape, Wiles’ role continues to draw attention, spotlighting the complexity and challenges of leading in such a tumultuous environment. The insights from their discussions not only reflect the current state of the administration but also highlight the intricate interplay of power within. As the political landscape evolves, Wiles’ influence may prove pivotal for the administration’s fortunes in the coming months.