Trump's first appointment: Susan Wiles will become the White House Chief of Staff. Here's what you need to know about her.

The winner of the U.S. presidential election, Donald Trump, has made his first appointment in his administration. He has named Susan Wiles as the head of the White House staff – marking the first time in U.S. history that a woman will hold this position.

This was reported by Associated Press. The 67-year-old Wiles is noted by the publication as a key figure in Trump's successful campaign.

For instance, she was able to organize a disciplined campaign for Trump, leading Democrats to believe until nearly the end that Trump's prospects in this area were not promising. Wiles lacks experience in federal government but has close ties to Trump and a deep understanding of his thoughts and goals.

Wiles’ responsibilities will include managing White House staff, overseeing access to the Oval Office, and controlling the flow of information. Additionally, she will negotiate with Congress, executive officials, and non-governmental political groups on behalf of the president. She is expected to handle these tasks well, as she has repeatedly demonstrated her capability to lead tough negotiations and constructively engage with key allies of the president.

"Susie is a strong, smart, innovative person who commands widespread enthusiasm and respect. Susie will work tirelessly to make America great again," Trump commented on Wiles' appointment.

What is known about Susan Wiles

Wiles was born in 1957 in New Jersey. Her father was a well-known sports commentator. In 1979, she began her political career in the team of her father's friend, politician Jack Kemp. By 1980, she was already involved in Ronald Reagan's presidential campaign. During the 1990s, her career remained steady – notably, Wiles served as chief of staff to Jacksonville Mayor John Delaney, and from 2004 to 2009, she was an advisor to another Jacksonville mayor, John Peyton.

Wiles has over 40 years of experience in politics. She has worked for presidents, mayors, governors, and members of Congress, leading the electoral campaigns of various political figures in the U.S. in 2010, 2016, 2018, and 2020. Her "portfolio" includes Rick Scott, Donald Trump, and Ron DeSantis. She has been working with Trump since 2016 and has significantly contributed to his electoral victories in both 2016 and 2024. Interestingly, it was Wiles who facilitated DeSantis' withdrawal from the presidential race in January 2024.

Overall, she is referred to as "the most valuable political advisor in the U.S." However, Wiles has sometimes faced accusations for working with Trump, being labeled as an accomplice to a totalitarian leader. Nevertheless, Wiles genuinely believes that she understands "how Trump's world operates from the inside," and therefore is convinced that no one has the right to judge her for the work she does.

Wiles has a daughter, Caroline, who was part of Trump's team for a time and even worked in the White House but resigned in 2017 after failing an FBI background check. Susan was previously married to former Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Lenny Wiles, marrying him young; however, the couple divorced in 2017. Little is known about her son.

As a reminder, U.S. elections occur in two stages. On Tuesday, November 5, a nationwide vote took place, followed by the Electoral College voting on December 17, representing each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia.

According to media reports, Donald Trump's new inauguration is scheduled for January 20, 2025. It is currently unknown which high-profile guests will attend the event. There is particular interest in whether Joe Biden, who withdrew from the election race in July 2024, will attend the inauguration.

Earlier, "Telegraph" reported on what Trump will focus on in the early days of his presidency. It is anticipated that upon returning to the White House, his decisions will address illegal immigration and oil extraction. He is expected to act quickly and decisively.