Susie Wiles, now serving as deputy secretary, has made history as the only American woman in politics recognized this year on the 2025 list of the world’s most powerful women.
According to Forbes, Wiles is ranked 66th, marking her groundbreaking appointment as the first female White House Chief of Staff and her role as co-chair of Donald Trump’s 2024 re-election campaign. Interestingly, she surpasses media figure Kim Kardashian, who is positioned at 71st.
This recognition comes alongside her leadership as the CEO of Save America Leadership PAC and her extensive experience advising prominent Republicans such as Ronald Reagan and Mitt Romney. Wiles’ political journey began in 1979 when she worked as an assistant to New York State Representative Jack Kemp.
Earlier versions of the list included well-known figures like former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. Notably, Kamala Harris was featured on the 2023 list but was omitted from the 2024 rankings following her defeat in the presidential election. This year, the top spots go to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde.
Following this recognition, Wiles received public congratulations from prominent conservative voices. Political strategist Alex Brucewicz expressed his support, stating that she was key to Trump’s victory last November and deserved more acknowledgment, although he feels she doesn’t seek it.
Bravo to White House Chief of Staff @SusieWiles for making the Forbes list of the World’s Most Powerful Women.
She was instrumental in securing President Trump’s win, yet her contributions often go unrecognized, but perhaps that’s just how she likes it.
U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Mike Walz also chimed in with his congratulations.
Team Florida! Kudos to you, Chief @SusieWiles!
Education Secretary Linda McMahon also joined in the congratulatory chorus.
Well done to @SusieWiles for being named on @Forbes’ list of “World’s Most Powerful Women.”
After her appointment in November, President Trump praised Wiles, saying she played a crucial role in what he termed a significant political victory. Senator J.D. Vance also expressed his support, describing her as an invaluable asset and a genuinely good person.
During a memorial event for Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, Wiles emphasized that Trump’s success in securing popular votes across battleground states was largely due to young, first-time voters, referring to them as “Charlie’s Army.” She credited Kirk for his impact on winning the 2024 election.
As the administration sets its sights on the 2026 midterm elections, Wiles indicated that Trump will remain central to the campaign’s focus. “He’ll campaign as he did for 2024,” she noted. While conventional strategies might typically localize elections, Wiles mentioned the plan to shift gears, aiming to engage low-propensity Trump supporters by placing him directly on the ballot.
Reflecting on the recent special election in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, Wiles acknowledged the implications of Trump’s absence from active participation. Despite Republican Matt Van Epps securing the win, Wiles expressed concern about turnout, reminding everyone of the consequences of not having Trump on the ballot.
