Trump elevates Stephen Miller after midterms disaster
One House Republican told Semafor the move was “a horrible decision.”
President Donald Trump announced on Friday that Stephen Miller will take over as the White House chief of staff, replacing Susie Wiles. The decision, sources close to the White House told Semafor, stems from some of the blame Trump placed on Wiles for the party’s poor performance in the midterms. Miller, known for his role in crafting the administration’s immigration enforcement agenda, will begin his new role on Monday.
Democrats and some Republicans view Miller's agenda as contributing to the party's midterm losses, with Indiana Republican Rep. Marlin Stutzman calling the decision to elevate him a "horrible decision." Miller’s appointment is expected to dampen the chances of an immigration deal in the next Congress, despite efforts to find common ground in a divided government.
Wiles, who served as Trump’s longest-serving top aide, has faced speculation about her tenure at the White House in the months leading up to the midterms. Her exit was reportedly initiated by Trump following his disappointment over the election results, with her agreement to resign. Miller's elevation is seen as a boost to Trump’s base and a means to rebuild a fractured coalition, according to a White House source.
The White House has not yet elaborated on Wiles’ new role, but it is believed she will join Trump’s outside political operation. Additionally, two senior Justice Department officials are also leaving their posts, as reported by Reuters.
Written by urgent.news from Semafor's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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