Susie Wiles, known as Donald Trump's “Ice Maiden,” is taking charge of the West Wing, advocating for a drama-free environment as the president-elect grapples with staffing challenges. Her mission centers on maintaining focus and integrity, pushing aside “troublemakers” and those seeking to "become a star" within the administration. In recent statements, Wiles emphasized the necessity of teamwork and a collective approach to achieving the America First agenda during her tenure as chief of staff.

Trump is aiming to staff up to 2,000 political appointments from Day One, facing difficulty due to loyalty tests which have complicated the recruitment process. Sources indicate this rigorous vetting has led to delays, with candidates hesitant to leave their current positions without concrete offers. Transition spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt asserted that despite slow progress, Trump has chosen a “brilliant Cabinet,” committed to the administration's objectives ([The Daily Beast](https://www.thedailybeast.com/trump-struggles-to-staff-ranks-after-using-loyalty-tests-to-vet-candidates/)).

In an interview with Axios, Wiles shared that her team will not entertain “backbiting, second-guessing inappropriately, or drama,” recognizing these behaviors as counterproductive to their mission. This stance mirrors Trump's past challenges during his first term, where infighting and disorganization were rampant. Emphasizing the importance of unity, Wiles stated, “My team and I will not tolerate backbiting” ([The Daily Beast](https://www.thedailybeast.com/susie-wiles-will-ice-out-anyone-in-trumpworld-who-wants-to-be-a-star/)).

As Trump’s transition unfolds, he remains actively involved in selecting his Cabinet and key leadership positions while delegating hiring decisions for most of the staff. This strategy has already led to disagreements within the camp, with some veterans criticizing new appointees for their ties to the “never-Trump” faction of the party. Trump insider Joshua Steinman publicly questioned several appointments, stating that many recent hires have historically opposed the president's policies on social media platforms and have worked against his interests ([The Daily Beast](https://www.thedailybeast.com/trump-struggles-to-staff-ranks-after-using-loyalty-tests-to-vet-candidates/)).

Incoming national security adviser Mike Waltz reassured supporters by asserting that “anyone working under President Trump in the NSC will be fully aligned with his America First agenda,” indicating an effort to consolidate loyalty and effectiveness within the administration ([The Daily Beast](https://www.thedailybeast.com/trump-struggles-to-staff-ranks-after-using-loyalty-tests-to-vet-candidates/)).

With these dynamics in play, Susie Wiles’ ability to steer a well-coordinated team while managing the office's culture will be critical as Trump aims to navigate the complexities of his administration amid calls for a more streamlined and united front.