Trump’s own Chief of Staff Susie Wiles reportedly told Vanity Fair that the President has an “alcoholic’s personality,” prompting Trump to fire back at what he calls another liberal media “hit piece.”
Story Snapshot
- Chief of Staff Susie Wiles characterized Trump’s personality as resembling an “alcoholic’s personality” in Vanity Fair interview
- Trump immediately responded by labeling the article a targeted “hit piece” against his administration
- The candid remarks from Trump’s own inner circle raise questions about staff loyalty and media strategy
- Vanity Fair editor appeared startled by the explosive nature of Wiles’ characterization
Wiles’ Explosive Character Assessment
Susie Wiles, serving as Trump’s Chief of Staff in his second term, made the startling comparison during what appears to be an interview with Vanity Fair. Her description of Trump having an “alcoholic’s personality” represents an unusually candid and potentially damaging assessment from someone within his closest circle of advisors. The comment reportedly caught even the Vanity Fair editor off guard, suggesting the frankness of her characterization exceeded expectations for typical political insider commentary.
Trump’s Swift Rebuttal Strategy
Trump responded immediately to the Vanity Fair piece by dismissing it as a “hit piece,” employing his familiar strategy of attacking media outlets that publish unfavorable coverage. This defensive response follows his established pattern of confronting perceived media bias head-on through public statements and social media. His quick rebuttal demonstrates continued sensitivity to personality-based critiques, particularly those originating from within his own administration’s inner circle.
Implications for Staff Loyalty and Media Relations
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between Trump’s combative media approach and the potential for internal staff candor to undermine messaging discipline. Wiles’ willingness to make such characterizations to a progressive-leaning publication raises questions about communication protocols within the administration. For conservative supporters frustrated with biased media coverage, this episode reinforces concerns about how mainstream outlets exploit any internal disagreements or casual remarks to damage Trump’s leadership narrative.
White House aide's claim about 'special' Trump 'spaces' startles Vanity Fair editor https://t.co/SjnMKLDIFg
— BARB59 / CANADA 🇺🇦 #FvckTrump #DemCast (@ABrosnikoff) December 17, 2025
The controversy underscores the challenges facing Trump’s team in maintaining unified messaging while navigating a hostile media environment that seizes on any perceived internal criticism or unflattering personal assessments.
