Best of the Spectator Americano: why did Susie Wiles talk to Vanity Fair?
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Dec 19, 2025 Aidan McLaughlin, Vanity Fair's Washington correspondent, dives into his revealing interview with Susie Wiles, a key player in the Trump administration. He discusses Wiles's role in professionalizing the chaotic second-term White House and minimizing infighting. McLaughlin shares her candid remarks on Trump, calling him 'an alcoholic's personality,' and highlights her efforts against retribution policies. The conversation also explores the ideological rifts within the GOP and Wiles's influence on future party dynamics, all while analyzing Trump's responses to controversy.
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Wiles Steadies The Second-Term White House
- Susie Wiles is widely credited with professionalizing and stabilizing Trump's second-term White House.
- Aidan McLaughlin says her campaign skill and managerial style reduced leaks and infighting compared with 2016-20.
Candid Personality Judgments Revealed
- Wiles gives candid character assessments of senior figures, calling Trump "an alcoholic's personality" and labeling others conspiratorial or earnest converts.
- McLaughlin frames these as revealing inside judgments that underline internal tensions and policy disagreements.
Retribution Strategy Miscalculated
- Wiles tried to limit a "retribution" phase to 90 days but admits it failed and included moves like targeting Letitia James.
- McLaughlin links such policies to Trump's low approval ratings and broader public backlash.