This Wednesday morning, the White House was engulfed in a political storm following the release of a detailed interview in Vanity Fair with Susie Wiles, the chief of staff to President Donald Trump. Wiles made waves by claiming that the president possesses an “alcoholic personality.”
The statement, coming from one of the most influential figures in Trump's inner circle, caused immediate uproar and prompted Trump to defend himself.
Known for her low-profile and effective internal management, Wiles granted eleven interviews to journalist Chris Whipple, author of "The Gatekeepers," which explores the role of chiefs of staff throughout American presidential history.
The outcome was an unusually candid portrayal of Trump’s right-hand woman, who not only depicted the president as someone who "believes there’s nothing he can't do," but also criticized several government officials.
In the article, Wiles referred to Vice President J. D. Vance as "a conspiracy theorist," confirmed rumors about Elon Musk's ketamine use, and criticized Attorney General Pam Bondi for her handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case.
The publication, accompanied by meticulously crafted photographs, stirred up the pre-holiday atmosphere in Washington.
Hours later, Wiles reacted on X (formerly Twitter), asserting that the report was "a deceptively crafted piece" aimed at "creating a chaotic and negative narrative" about the president and his team.
"The Trump White House has achieved more in eleven months than any other president in eight years," she wrote, reaffirming her loyalty to Trump and her commitment to "making America great again."
The damage control attempt couldn't prevent the issue from escalating. Trump participated in an emergency interview with the New York Post, where he jokingly admitted he has an "alcoholic personality," though he reiterated he’s never consumed alcohol.
"If I did, I’d probably be an alcoholic," Trump said, defending his chief of staff as "a fantastic person who has done an incredible job."
Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused Vanity Fair of twisting Wiles' words "to harm the White House," while presidential spokesperson Karoline Leavitt posted a supportive message: "President Trump has no more loyal advisor than Susie. The entire Administration stands united behind her."
The Vanity Fair profile has reignited the debate over Wiles' role, the first woman in history to hold the position of chief of staff. Her sudden media exposure has left Washington puzzled, trying to decipher what prompted the most reserved figure in Trump’s circle to break her usual silence so explosively.
Understanding the Political Storm Around Susie Wiles and Trump
What did Susie Wiles say about Donald Trump?
Susie Wiles described President Trump as having an "alcoholic personality" in an interview with Vanity Fair.
How did Trump respond to Wiles' comments?
Trump defended himself in an interview, jokingly admitting he has an "alcoholic personality" but stated he has never drunk alcohol.
What was the reaction within the White House?
There was immediate uproar, with Trump and several officials defending Wiles and accusing Vanity Fair of manipulating her words.
Why is Wiles' role significant in Trump's administration?
Wiles is the first woman to serve as a chief of staff to a U.S. president, making her role historically significant and closely watched.