Trump reportedly considers replacing White House chief of staff Susie Wiles

19:22

By: Azzat Manal

Trump reportedly considers replacing White House chief of staff Susie Wiles

US President Donald Trump has reportedly discussed the possibility of replacing White House chief of staff Susie Wiles with people close to him, according to Politico, which cited sources familiar with the matter. The reported discussions come amid concerns within the administration about Trump's declining approval ratings and internal disagreements over how to address the political challenges facing his presidency.

According to the publication's sources, Trump has linked the decline in his popularity to decisions made by Wiles. Her rivals within the administration have reportedly sought to draw his attention to negative reports involving her family and associates, potentially adding to tensions surrounding her position.

Several possible successors are said to be under consideration, including Stephen Miller, Wiles's deputy, special envoy Steve Witkoff and former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. No formal decision has been announced, and the reported discussions have not been confirmed by the White House.

Trump publicly rejected the reports, describing them as entirely false and criticising Politico's journalistic standards. He praised Wiles as a loyal and trusted adviser who had supported him from the beginning of his political career, insisting that she continued to enjoy his full confidence.

Wiles, 69, is one of the most influential figures in Trump's political operation and became the first woman to serve as White House chief of staff. Known for her discreet approach and role in managing internal operations, she has earned the nickname “the Ice Maiden” for her reputation for discipline and her ability to handle political disputes behind the scenes.

The chief of staff plays a central role in coordinating the president's schedule, managing access to the Oval Office, supervising White House staff and helping implement the administration's priorities. The position also requires balancing competing interests among senior officials, making it particularly important during periods of political pressure.

Wiles has remained a prominent adviser despite challenges during her tenure. In mid-September, she announced that she had completed her cancer treatment programme, according to the report. The latest claims about her future, however, remain unconfirmed, with Trump's public statements directly contradicting the suggestion that he is preparing to dismiss her.

For now, the reported discussions highlight the internal pressures that can emerge within a presidential administration as it navigates public opinion, policy disputes and relationships among senior advisers. Whether the speculation will lead to a change in leadership at the White House remains unclear.