Donald Trump’s behind-the-scenes ‘ice maiden’ given crucial role in White House

EXCLUSIVE: Susie Wiles was called to the podium by Donald Trump during his victory speech, apparently overcoming her considerable reticence in order to do so.

Susie Wiles, the woman widely credited with bringing stability to Donald Trump's successful US Presidential campaign, will similarly keep his administration on an even keel when he returns to the White House, a former aide to ex-President Ronald Reagan has predicted.

Peggy Grande, who also served as the chairwoman of World For Brexit, was speaking after Mr Trump sealed a comprehensive victory in Tuesday’s election.

In doing so, he won a second, non-consecutive term, making him only the second US President in history to do so, after Grover Cleveland in the 19th century.

Mr Trump acknowledged Ms Wiles’ contribution during his victory speech, saying: “Let me also express my tremendous appreciation for Susie and the job you did.”

Calling for her to come to the podium, he said: “Susie likes to stay in the back let me tell you, the ice maiden, we call her the ice maiden."

Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump brings Susie Wiles to the podium. (Image: AP)

Ms Grande told Express.co.uk Ms wiles was "widely respected”.

She added: "She will bring order and organisation to the Trump White House in a way that is needed and will be welcomed.

"Unlike many of the people around Donald Trump who have big personalities and a large public presence and persona, Susie is more comfortable behind the scenes.

"We even saw this on election night when Trump introduced her and thanked her, she came forward and quietly said thank you and disappeared again into the background immediately.

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk is likely to have a role in the Trump administration. (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

"She is no-nonsense, no-drama, hard-working, smart, savvy, and will be a great WH Chief of Staff.

"As the first woman to ever hold that role, I look forward to watching her shine as a professional who will excel in her job and help Donald Trump excel in his."

The 67-year-old is regarded as having effectively managed Mr Trump’s campaign, steering it with discipline and mitigating the in-fighting and leaks which marred prior campaigns.

Her contributions were similarly crucial in his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. She initially established herself as a core strategist in Florida, helping Mr Trump capture the then-swing state.

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Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump shakes hands with Robert F. Kennedy Jr (Image: AP)

Additionally, her prior experience includes managing campaigns for Florida Republicans such as Governor Ron DeSantis, though her relationship with DeSantis soured in 2020, prompting her to rejoin Mr Trump’s team.

Her reputation as a steady hand with strong connections in conservative circles earned her Mr Trump’s trust—and ultimately, her new job.

Nevertheless, she will need all her political skills to balance the diverse factions within Mr Trump’s circle, including long-time allies and influential new figures like Elon Musk and Robert F Kennedy Jr.

Her leadership approach, marked by loyalty and direct communication, has been praised by colleagues who believe she will maintain discipline in the White House.

In past remarks, Wiles has described herself as a moderate Republican. She occasionally expressed reservations about some of Trump’s actions, such as the events of January 6, 2021, although she emphasised that she did not hold Trump responsible for the incident.

Four people served as chief of staff during Mr Trump's first term, and sometimes things ended on acrimonious terms.

Ms Wiles is the daughter of the late NFL player-turned-broadcaster Pat Summerall.