Miller Set to Replace Wiles as White House Chief of Staff
The promotion to the top post in the executive branch comes two days after Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress in the midterm elections.
By Connor Murphy ·
President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he is promoting Stephen Miller to White House Chief of Staff. The move replaces Susie Wiles, who will move to Trump’s political operation. Miller is scheduled to begin his duties on Monday. The appointment lands at a moment of heightened tension, as the White House prepares to face a new 120th Congress controlled by Democrats.
Miller has served in both of Trump’s terms. He acted as Deputy Chief of Staff starting January 20, 2025. His history with the administration spans multiple roles. Political observers note that Miller is not known for a conciliatory style. This approach signals a strategy of frequent confrontation with the new legislative majority over the coming two years.
"The mission now is more clear than ever: Fight with all of our soul to support our President and defend this magnificent Republic," Miller wrote in a post on X on Friday. He thanked Wiles for her "years of devoted service" and described the appointment as the privilege of his lifetime.
Democratic leaders reacted quickly to the news. House Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) called the move a mistake on social media. "Stephen Miller is a dangerous xenophobe and reckless extremist who has American blood on his hands," Jeffries wrote. He urged the president to fire Miller immediately.
Senate Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) also criticized the choice. He described Miller as the "architect of the most barbaric, inhumane policies" of the administration. Schumer stated that the new Democratic majorities in both chambers would fight the president at every step. The comments came days after Democrats flipped control of both the House and Senate by wide margins.
Wiles, the first woman to hold the position of White House Chief of Staff, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. "While my role may be changing, my commitment to the President and the mission never will," she wrote. She cited the people she worked with as her primary source of thanks.
The personnel change marks a shift in the senior leadership structure of the executive branch. Wiles will focus on the president’s political strategy, while Miller assumes direct charge of the White House staff. The new dynamics will be tested as the 120th Congress convenes and begins its legislative work.
