The Republican Party of Florida on Saturday named Susie Wiles, Chief of Staff to President Donald Trump, as its 2025 Statesman of the Year during the Red Florida Dinner in Orlando, recognizing her decades of work in Florida and national Republican politics.
Wiles has been a figure in GOP campaigns for more than 20 years, having managed Rick Scott’s first run for governor in 2010, oversaw President Trump’s Florida operations in both the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections, and co-managed his 2024 campaign. Following Trump’s return to the White House, Wiles became his chief of staff.
In a statement, party Chairman Evan Power said Wiles’ political strategy has shaped Republican successes across Florida.
“Susie Wiles has shaped not just Florida politics, but the future of our country,” said Power. “From Jacksonville to Tallahassee and now the White House, her leadership, integrity, and unmatched political instincts have defined a generation. Honoring her as our 2025 Statesman of the Year is a tribute to her extraordinary career and enduring impact.”
The award was given during the party’s annual Florida Freedom Forum, which gathers Republican officials, activists and supporters from across the state. The event featured speeches from Scott, Rep. Byron Donalds and Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley.
“As President Trump says—she’s the most powerful woman in the world. We couldn’t agree more. Congratulations!,” the party said in a post on X.
Wiles began her political career in the Reagan administration.
