Who is Susie Wiles? Susie Wiles has made history as the first woman to become White House Chief of Staff. Born in New Jersey, she is the daughter of NFL legend Pat Summerall. Her political journey began in the 1970s with New York Rep. Jack Kemp. Wiles has played key roles in campaigns for Ronald Reagan, Rick Scott, Jon Huntsman, and Donald Trump. Known for her strategic brilliance and low-profile approach, she has earned the nickname "the Ice Maiden." Her appointment marks a significant milestone, showcasing her ability to navigate complex political landscapes and break barriers in a male-dominated field.
Key Takeaways:
- Susan Wiles, a political powerhouse, has navigated complex campaigns and relationships with finesse. Her strategic prowess and unique management style have shaped her career, earning her the nickname "the Ice Maiden."
- With a background in high-stakes campaigns and a knack for leveraging relationships, Susan Wiles has become a formidable political savant. Her ability to manage power dynamics and information makes her a force to be reckoned with in the political arena.
Early Life and Family
Susan "Susie" Wiles has a fascinating background that shaped her political career. Let's dive into her early years and family influences.
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Born and Raised in New Jersey: Susie Wiles grew up in New Jersey, a state known for its diverse culture and political landscape.
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Daughter of Pat Summerall: Her father, Pat Summerall, was a famous NFL player and sportscaster. His career in sports and media likely influenced her strategic thinking.
Entry into Politics
Wiles' journey into politics began in the 1970s, setting the stage for her future roles.
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Started with Jack Kemp: She began her political career in the Washington office of New York Rep. Jack Kemp, gaining early exposure to national politics.
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Joined Ronald Reagan’s Campaign: In the 1980s, she joined Ronald Reagan’s presidential campaign, marking the start of her national political career.
Florida Politics
After Reagan’s campaign, Wiles moved to Florida, where she made significant contributions.
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Advised Jacksonville Mayors: She advised two Jacksonville mayors, showcasing her ability to manage high-stakes electoral campaigns.
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Worked for Rep. Tillie Fowler: Her experience with Rep. Tillie Fowler further honed her political skills.
Campaign Successes
Wiles has been instrumental in several high-profile campaigns, demonstrating her strategic prowess.
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Rick Scott’s Campaign: She helped businessman Rick Scott win the governorship of Florida, navigating the complex world of Florida politics.
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Jon Huntsman’s Campaign: In 2012, she managed Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman’s presidential campaign, further honing her strategic skills.
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Donald Trump’s 2016 Campaign: Wiles played a pivotal role in Trump’s 2016 campaign in Florida, contributing to his presidential victory.
Relationship with Ron DeSantis
Wiles' relationship with Ron DeSantis has been both collaborative and contentious.
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Helped Elect Ron DeSantis: In 2018, she helped get Ron DeSantis elected as Florida’s governor.
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Rift with DeSantis: A rift developed between them, leading DeSantis to urge Trump’s 2020 campaign to sever ties with Wiles.
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Led Trump’s Primary Campaign Against DeSantis: Despite the rift, she led Trump’s primary campaign against DeSantis, showcasing her ability to manage complex political dynamics.
Campaign Management Style
Wiles is known for her unique management style, which has earned her significant recognition.
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Restrained and Enigmatic Demeanor: She often avoids the spotlight, maintaining a low profile while effectively managing campaigns.
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Close Relationship with Trump: Wiles developed a close relationship with Trump, who praised her leadership.
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Control of Trump’s Impulses: She managed to guide Trump’s moods and impulses, showing him that he felt better when he listened to her advice.
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Silent Intervention: During a speech in Pennsylvania, she calmed Trump down by staring at him silently, preventing further escalation.
Public Perception and Nicknames
Despite her significant role, Wiles maintains a reserved public persona.
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Rarely Appears in Interviews: She rarely appears in televised interviews or public speaking events.
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Nickname "Ice Maiden": Her reserved nature has earned her the nickname "the Ice Maiden" within Trump’s inner circle.
Relationships with Key Figures
Wiles has built relationships with influential individuals, positioning herself as a key player in political alliances.
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Elon Musk: She developed relationships with key figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Elon Musk.
Federal Government Experience
While Wiles doesn’t bring much federal government experience, her extensive background in campaign management makes her well-suited for her new role.
- Extensive Campaign Management Experience: Her background in campaign management and strategic planning is extensive.
Salary and Compensation
Wiles' new role comes with significant responsibilities and compensation.
- Salary as Chief of Staff: She will likely earn a salary similar to previous chiefs of staff, around $179,700 annually.
Family Involvement
Wiles' family has also been involved in politics, adding another layer to her political journey.
- Daughter Caroline’s Role: One of her daughters, Caroline, was hired as a deputy assistant at the White House during Trump’s first term.
Personal Life
Despite personal challenges, Wiles has maintained a strong professional presence.
- Divorced in 2017: She divorced her husband Lenny Wiles, a political consultant, in 2017.
Political Savant
Wiles' political instincts have been praised by many.
- Described as a "Political Savant": Former Jacksonville Mayor John Delaney described her as a "political savant" with "otherworldly sort of political instincts."
Jacksonville’s First Female Chief of Staff
Wiles broke barriers in Jacksonville, showcasing her dedication to public service.
- First Female Chief of Staff: She served as Jacksonville’s first female chief of staff under Mayor John Delaney.
Infrastructure Projects
Wiles played a crucial role in several major infrastructure projects in Jacksonville.
- $2.2-Billion Tax-Raising Initiative: She was instrumental in building and selling a $2.2-billion tax-raising initiative.
Early Education and Anti-Crime Efforts
Wiles worked on initiatives to improve the quality of life for Jacksonville citizens.
- Early Education and Anti-Crime Efforts: Under Mayor John Peyton, she worked on early education and anti-crime efforts.
Land Preservation and River Restoration
Wiles' dedication to environmental causes is evident in her work in Jacksonville.
- Land Preservation and River Restoration: She was involved in land preservation and river restoration projects.
Relationships and Information Management
Wiles' ability to leverage relationships and information has been key to her success.
- Non-Threatening and Accessible Air: Her non-threatening and accessible air allows her to gather and share information effectively.
Power Dynamics
Wiles understands the power dynamics involved in politics, making her a formidable strategist.
- Using Information to Solve Problems: She can use information to solve problems or cause problems, showcasing her strategic prowess.
Susie Wiles: A Trailblazer in Politics
Susie Wiles has carved out a remarkable career in American politics. From her early days working with Rep. Jack Kemp to her pivotal roles in Ronald Reagan's and Donald Trump's campaigns, Wiles has shown an uncanny knack for strategy and leadership. Her influence extends beyond campaign victories, having shaped policies and initiatives in Florida and Jacksonville. As the first woman to hold the role of White House Chief of Staff, she continues to break barriers and set new standards. Known for her disciplined, low-profile approach, Wiles has earned respect and admiration across the political spectrum. Her ability to manage complex political dynamics and build key relationships has made her an indispensable figure in modern American politics. Susie Wiles' journey is a testament to her resilience, intelligence, and unwavering dedication to public service.
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