Trump Says Chief of Staff Susie Wiles Has Breast Cancer

Wiles plans to continue working through treatment, president says

Mar. 16, 2026 at 4:54pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

President Donald Trump announced on Monday that his White House chief of staff, Susie Wiles, has been diagnosed with early stage breast cancer. Trump said Wiles' prognosis is 'excellent' and that she plans to begin treatment immediately while continuing to work virtually full-time at the White House.

Why it matters

Wiles is one of Trump's closest advisers, serving as the first woman to become White House chief of staff. Her diagnosis comes as the president faces a number of major challenges, including the war in Iran, rising oil prices, the upcoming midterm elections, and concerns over affordability among Americans.

The details

Wiles, 68, is a longtime Trump ally who rose from his campaign co-chair to his closest adviser and counsel. She spent decades as a lobbyist and political operative in Florida before leading Trump's 2016 effort in the state.

  • On Monday, March 16, 2026, President Trump announced Wiles' breast cancer diagnosis.

The players

Susie Wiles

The White House chief of staff who has been diagnosed with early stage breast cancer.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who announced Wiles' diagnosis and said she will continue working through treatment.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“During the treatment period, she will be spending virtually full time at the White House, which makes me, as President, very happy! She will soon be better than ever!”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States (Truth Social)

What’s next

The president did not provide any details on when Wiles will begin her cancer treatment or how long it may last.

The takeaway

Wiles' diagnosis highlights the challenges facing the Trump administration as the president deals with major global and domestic issues, underscoring the importance of maintaining stability and continuity in the White House during this time.