Miller Takes White House Top Job as Wiles Steps Aside
The promotion lands days after Democrats seized control of both chambers of Congress, prompting sharp criticism from new legislative leaders.
By Giulia Donovan ·
President Donald Trump promoted Stephen Miller to White House Chief of Staff on Friday, a move that reshapes the administration’s top ranks just days after midterm elections. Miller’s first day in the new role is scheduled for Monday, November 9. He replaces Susie Wiles, who becomes the first woman to hold the position in U.S. history.
Miller has served in both of Trump’s terms and held the title of Deputy Chief of Staff since January 20, 2025. His appointment signals a shift in strategy toward the 120th Congress, which Democrats now control by wide margins in both the House and the Senate. The new leadership structure positions Miller to manage executive branch operations against a backdrop of increased partisan division.
Wiles will join Trump’s political operation. In a statement on X, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside her colleagues. She noted that while her official role is changing, her commitment to the president and the administration’s mission remains constant.
Miller issued a detailed response on social media, describing the appointment as the privilege of his lifetime. He thanked Wiles for her years of service and defined the team’s immediate objective. “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. He characterized Trump as a transformative leader who saved the country from those who would destroy it.
Democratic leaders reacted swiftly to the personnel change. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, representing New York, criticized Miller on X. He called the new chief of staff a dangerous xenophobe and reckless extremist, urging Trump to fire him immediately. Jeffries described Miller’s presence in government as something that should be eradicated like a malignant tumor.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, also from New York, joined the criticism. He labeled Miller the architect of the administration’s most inhumane policies and stated that Trump could not have made a worse choice. Schumer declared that the new Democratic majorities in Congress would fight the president at every step. The comments highlight the immediate tension between the White House and the incoming legislative leadership.
