Stephen Miller, a key architect of some of the Trump administration's most stringent immigration policies, has been appointed White House chief of staff, President Donald Trump announced Friday. Miller will replace Susie Wiles in the role, with Wiles having already resigned. The change comes in the wake of significant Republican losses in the midterm elections.
Trump expressed that Wiles had performed well but stated that "sometimes in life, you have to make moves." Miller, currently serving as deputy chief of staff for policy and homeland security adviser, is known for his role in implementing policies such as family separations and heightened ICE enforcement during Trump's previous term.
Sources suggest the appointment indicates a move toward a more assertive approach on immigration and the potential use of governmental power against political opponents. This strategy appears to be a continuation of the hardline stance that some analysts believe contributed to the midterm election outcomes. With over two years remaining in his term, Trump and Miller are expected to pursue policies that could test the limits of presidential authority.