What's happened
Former President Donald Trump delivered an 18-minute speech blaming Biden for economic issues and border problems. He claimed the U.S. is the 'hottest country' after 11 months in office. The address was criticized for lack of substance and Trump’s shouting. Wiles, his chief of staff, defended her role amid recent critical reports.
What's behind the headline?
The address highlights Trump’s continued reliance on provocative rhetoric despite declining approval ratings. His false claims about inflation and border security serve to rally his base but undermine credibility. Wiles’ candid interviews expose internal tensions and suggest Trump’s personality remains volatile, which could impact his political future. The timing of the speech, amid ongoing criticism and media scrutiny, indicates an attempt to reshape his narrative. The focus on military dividends and border strength signals a strategy to appeal to nationalist sentiments, but the lack of substance risks further alienating moderate voters. Overall, this event underscores Trump’s persistent use of divisive tactics to maintain influence, with potential consequences for upcoming elections.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Trump’s speech was criticized for its lack of substance and his shouting, with some calling it a 'disingenuously framed hit piece.' Al Jazeera highlights Wiles’ candid interviews, describing her as offering an unusually frank inside look at Trump’s inner circle, with her calling him having an 'alcoholic’s personality.' The Guardian emphasizes Wiles’ critical insights and her defense against media portrayals, portraying her as a key figure in understanding the administration’s internal dynamics. The New York Times notes Wiles’ detailed account of Trump’s personality and decision-making style, contrasting it with Trump’s own defense of her and his denial of the negative characterizations. Overall, the sources depict a complex picture of internal tensions, media narratives, and Trump’s ongoing political strategy.
How we got here
The story follows a series of interviews with Susie Wiles, Trump’s chief of staff, published by Vanity Fair, revealing candid insights into Trump’s administration. Wiles described Trump as having an 'alcoholic’s personality' and criticized other aides. The speech coincided with Trump’s visit to Dover Air Force Base to honor fallen soldiers. The address included false claims about inflation and border security, amid low approval ratings for Trump’s handling of the economy.
Go deeper
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Susan Summerall Wiles is an American political consultant who served as co-chair of Donald Trump's successful 2024 presidential campaign, having previously worked on his 2016 campaign, as well as Ronald Reagan's 1980 campaign.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Vanity Fair may refer to:
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James David Vance is an American author and venture capitalist. He is best known for his memoir Hillbilly Elegy, about Appalachian values and their relation to the social problems of his hometown, which attracted significant media attention during the 201