Donald Trump appointed Susie Wiles as White House Chief of Staff on Thursday, making her the first woman in the history of the United States to hold the position.
Wiles is widely recognized both inside and outside Trump's inner circle for leading what was by far his most disciplined and well-executed campaign, and she was considered by many as the top candidate for the position. She largely stayed out of the spotlight, and even refused to say a few words while Trump celebrated his electoral victory early Wednesday morning.
She even refused to formally accept the position of campaign manager, avoiding becoming a target, considering Trump's track record of frequently changing the people in that role.
What will Wiles' role be in the Trump administration?
Wiles' appointment is the first major decision that Trump has announced since winning the election, and one that could prove to be a crucial test in his upcoming term, as he must quickly assemble the team that will help lead the vast federal government.
Wiles does not bring much federal-level experience to the position, but he has a close relationship with the incoming president.
During the campaign, Wiles managed to do what few have been able to: help control Trump's impulses, not by scolding him, but by earning his respect and showing him that he did better when he followed his advice than when he ignored it.
Trump had four chiefs of staff in his first term, including one who served in an interim capacity for a year, as part of an unprecedented staff turnover. Trump fired many of his top aides during his first presidential term, who resented feeling managed or treated condescendingly, while others got caught up in ideological disputes within the White House.
“Susie is tough, intelligent, innovative, and universally admired and respected. Susie will continue to work tirelessly to Make America Great Again,” Trump said in a statement. “It is a well-deserved honor to have Susie as the first woman to serve as chief of staff in the history of the United States. I have no doubt that she will make our country proud.”