Inside the Lobbying Career of Trump’s New Chief of Staff

Donald J. Trump’s first presidential transition was characterized by disorder and a pledge to "drain the swamp." His second transition, however, is moving with greater efficiency, largely due to the leadership of Susie Wiles, a seasoned political operative with deep ties to special interests—an ironic shift given Mr. Trump’s previous rhetoric against such influences.

Ms. Wiles, a 67-year-old veteran strategist and former lobbyist, has been appointed chief of staff for Mr. Trump’s White House. Her selection suggests a continuation of the complicated relationship between the administration and corporate lobbying. A key figure in Mr. Trump’s reelection campaign, Ms. Wiles is now spearheading efforts to build the new executive office. Just last week, she addressed major donors in Las Vegas, previewing plans to reinstate Trump-era executive orders that had been rescinded by President Biden.

Ms. Wiles’s transition from lobbying to leading the White House comes under scrutiny. Until earlier this year, she worked for Mercury Public Affairs and represented various corporate interests, including tobacco companies and foreign entities. Critics, including the consumer advocacy group Public Citizen, have called for her recusal from policy matters involving her former clients, citing ethical concerns about the so-called "revolving door" between lobbying and government.

Ethics experts are divided. While some warn of potential conflicts of interest, others highlight the importance of strict adherence to recusal rules, which Trump’s team has promised to implement.

Ms. Wiles’s political career spans decades, with roles in Republican campaigns and government offices. She has worked with high-profile figures such as Senator Rick Scott and Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida, although she has since fallen out with the latter. She was instrumental in helping Ballard Partners, a Florida-based lobbying firm, expand to Washington after Mr. Trump’s 2016 victory. During her tenure, she registered as a lobbyist for nearly 40 clients, from multinational corporations to political parties.

Despite these ties, her supporters, including former Jacksonville mayor John Delaney, describe her as a strategist rather than a typical lobbyist. Brian Hughes, a spokesman for Mr. Trump’s transition, praised her "integrity and steadfast commitment to service."

The appointment reflects a broader pattern within Mr. Trump’s administration, which has frequently drawn from the ranks of lobbyists. Sean Duffy, Mr. Trump’s nominee for Transportation Secretary, and Pam Bondi, his pick for Attorney General, both have lobbying backgrounds, further emphasizing the administration’s reliance on figures with industry connections.

Ms. Wiles has proven adept at navigating the intersection of politics, business, and government. Her influence extends beyond traditional lobbying; she has worked on regulatory policy, public messaging, and grassroots organization for clients ranging from tobacco companies to environmental groups.

While Mr. Trump continues to voice skepticism about lobbyists publicly, the composition of his administration tells a different story. The demand for lobbying services tied to his presidency has surged, with corporate and foreign entities eager to secure influence. As Ms. Wiles takes on her new role, her ability to balance ethics, governance, and corporate interests will be closely watched.