Trump Weighs Replacing Chief of Staff Wiles Amid Midterm Turmoil

Key points

• Michael Wolff stated that Trump's recent conversations with allies signal that Susie Wiles is likely to be replaced, describing her as the next target of the president's 'kiss of death.'
• Politico reported that Trump has been asking friends for their views on Wiles and musing about replacements, including deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller and former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
• The Washington Post noted that White House aides are openly jockeying for power as they brace for widespread midterm election losses and internal upheaval.
• Trump publicly defended Wiles in a statement to Politico, calling her his 'loyal and longest serving Chief of Staff' and dismissing reports as 'total fake news.'
• Recent reports indicated that Wiles' daughter, Katie Wiles, and top aides James Blair and Chris LaCivita were involved in consulting work for Republika Srpska, a pro-Russian territory, which has fueled criticism from rivals.

Background

This development follows earlier tensions in the administration, including Trump's threats to fire aides Blair and LaCivita over their Balkan consulting trips in October 2026. It also follows the release of declassified documents in early October 2026 revealing FBI surveillance of Wiles' phone activity during a previous investigation. These events have contributed to a broader atmosphere of instability within the White House as the midterm elections approach.

How outlets are covering it

The Daily Beast, citing Michael Wolff, frames the situation as a deliberate strategy by Trump to remove Wiles, characterizing it as a 'sinister plot.' In contrast, The Washington Post emphasizes the broader context of internal power struggles and jockeying among aides due to anticipated midterm losses. Politico provides a more nuanced view, noting that while Trump publicly defended Wiles, he was privately soliciting opinions and considering replacements, highlighting a rift between his public statements and private actions. All three outlets agree that Wiles' position is under significant pressure, but they differ in their interpretation of Trump's intent and the immediacy of her potential departure.

Why it matters

The potential removal of Susie Wiles, a long-serving and influential figure in the Trump administration, could signal a major shift in White House leadership and policy direction. Her departure would likely lead to a reorganization of the administration's inner circle and could impact the president's ability to manage the midterm elections and legislative agenda. The instability within the White House may also affect the administration's ability to respond to domestic and international challenges, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and economic issues.

What to watch

The next few weeks will likely see increased speculation and reporting on the potential replacement of Susie Wiles. Trump may make a decision on her future in the coming days or weeks, potentially ahead of the midterm elections. The administration may also face further internal conflicts and power struggles as aides jockey for position. The outcome of the midterm elections will likely influence the trajectory of the administration's leadership and policy priorities.