Washington – Susie Wiles, the White House chief of staff widely credited with bringing a degree of stability to President Donald Trump’s administration, has been diagnosed with early stage breast cancer, the president announced Monday.
Trump revealed the diagnosis in a post on his social media platform, stating that Wiles, 68, would continue in her role “virtually full-time” although undergoing treatment. “Her Strength and her Commitment to continue doing the job she loves, and does so well, while undergoing treatment, tells you everything you need to know about her,” Trump wrote. He added that Wiles has an “excellent” prognosis.
Wiles, the first woman to serve as White House chief of staff, appeared alongside President Trump at a meeting of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts board on Monday, according to reports. Trump described her condition as a “minor difficulty” and reiterated her commitment to addressing it “immediately.”
The diagnosis comes as Wiles oversees the administration’s agenda, having previously directed Trump’s successful 2024 presidential campaign. She also served as Trump’s campaign director in Florida during his initial 2016 White House bid. Her influence within the administration has been significant, and she is known for her ability to retain the president focused, a skill highlighted during the 2024 campaign.
In 2025, Wiles participated in a series of interviews with author and filmmaker Chris Whipple for Vanity Fair, offering candid assessments of the Trump presidency, Vice President JD Vance, and various cabinet secretaries. Following Monday’s announcement, Vance stated he and his family were “praying for our dear friend as she takes on her next fight.”
The White House has not yet released detailed information regarding Wiles’ treatment plan. Trump indicated she “decided to take on this challenge, IMMEDIATELY, as opposed to waiting.” Wiles herself released a statement saying she was grateful for early detection and an encouraging prognosis, and intends to remain in her role as chief of staff.
The Kennedy Center board meeting Wiles attended on Monday included a vote on plans to close the center for renovations starting July 6, according to The Fresh York Times.
