President Donald Trump announced Monday that White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles has been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer and has begun treatment immediately, saying her prognosis is excellent and that she plans to continue working full time through her recovery.
“Susie Wiles is an incredible Chief of Staff, a great person, and one of the strongest people I know,” Trump wrote in a post on TruthSocial. He added that Wiles and her medical team chose to begin treatment right away rather than wait, and that she would be “spending virtually full time at the White House” during the treatment period.
Trump praised Wiles’ decision to continue in her role, saying it reflected her character and commitment to public service. “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,” he wrote.
The president added that First Lady Melania Trump joined him in expressing support for Wiles, writing that “we look forward to working with Susie on the many big and wonderful things.”
U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) expressed deep sympathies to Wiles and stating he was keeping her and her family in his thoughts as she navigates “kicking breast cancer’s ass.” The post, shared Monday afternoon, garnered thousands of likes and reposts.
U.S. Rep. Russell Fry (R-SC-07) posted on social media that he was praying for Wiles as she begins treatment, describing her as a fighter and an incredible public servant who has worked tirelessly for the country. Fry wished her strength, comfort and a full recovery in his message.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt praised Wiles as epitomizing strong leadership and one of the nicest people she has met, noting Wiles’ roles in Trump’s 2024 campaign and current administration. Leavitt added that the president and entire White House were praying for and rallying behind Wiles in her battle against breast cancer.
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) wrote on X that he and his wife, Barbara, were praying for Wiles as she fights early-stage breast cancer. Grassley highlighted their support for regular screenings and early detection, based on his wife’s experience 39 years ago, and said Wiles would be an inspiration to many.
Wiles, 68, has served as White House Chief of Staff since January 20, 2025, becoming the first woman to hold the position in U.S. history. The daughter of NFL player and sportscaster Pat Summerall, Wiles worked in the Washington office of New York Rep. Jack Kemp in the 1970s, followed by stints on Ronald Reagan’s campaign and in his White House as a scheduler. She later served as chief of staff to Jacksonville Mayor John Delaney and managed Rick Scott’s successful 2010 Florida gubernatorial campaign.
Trump selected Wiles as his chief of staff on November 7, 2024, two days after winning the presidential election.
She served as co-chair and manager of his 2024 campaign and is widely credited with his victory. Trump called her “tough, smart, innovative… universally admired and respected” when announcing her appointment.
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Christina Botteri is the Executive Editor of The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network. Follow her on X at @christinakb.
Photo “Susie Wiles and President Trump” by Susie Wiles.
Editor’s note: This article was updated to include comments and reaction from public figures.
