In a candid interview with News, Susie Wiles, the White House Chief of Staff, revealed Donald Trump’s unwavering belief that “there’s nothing he can’t do” as President of the United States. This conversation offers a rare glimpse into the political strategies and government policies accompanying Trump’s anticipated second administration.

Wiles, who emphasizes the significance of public opinion, described Trump—who abstains from alcohol—as possessing “an alcoholic’s personality,” drawing from her personal experiences with her late father, broadcaster and NFL star Pat Summerall, who struggled with alcoholism. “High-functioning alcoholics or alcoholics, in general, have exaggerated personalities when they drink,” she noted, suggesting her expertise comes from a deep familiarity with such complex characters.

Retribution: A Central Theme

Wiles conveyed that Trump harbors a desire for retribution against his political adversaries, particularly when opportunities arise. She recounted an informal agreement between them to conclude any vendettas within the first 90 days of his potential administration. However, this timeline has since been disregarded, as Trump’s presidency has already seen significant indictments, notably against New York Attorney General Letitia James for fraud and former FBI director James Comey, whom Trump dismissed during his first term.

“In some cases, it may look like retribution,” Wiles acknowledged, adding, “And there may be an element of that from time to time. Who would blame him? Not me.” Yet, she clarified, “I don’t think he wakes up thinking about retribution, but when there’s an opportunity, he will go for it.”

Contentions Around the January 6th Insurrection

On the topic of the individuals involved in the January 6th insurrection, who attempted to halt the certification of Joe Biden’s victory, Wiles expressed her caution regarding Trump’s inclination to pardon them. She commended the FBI for its thorough investigations while distancing Trump from the notion of blanket pardons, noting, “I am on board with people who were happenstance participants or didn’t engage in violence.” Nevertheless, Trump appeared to argue that even violent offenders received excessive sentences, leading Wiles to reconsider her stance.

“In every case he was considering, they had already served more time than the sentencing guidelines suggested. So given that, I sort of got on board,” she stated.

Elon Musk and Government Efficiency

Wiles also discussed her concerns regarding Elon Musk, characterizing him as “an odd, odd duck.” Critically evaluating Musk’s efforts to streamline governmental operations, particularly regarding the dismantling of USAID, she remarked, “No rational person could think the USAID process was a good one. Nobody.” Wiles acknowledged the agency’s valuable contributions while rebuking Musk’s controversial statements.

After Musk suggested on social media that historical figures did not cause mass victimization, Wiles attributed his comments to possible substance influence, stating, “I think that’s when he’s microdosing,” referencing his openness about using ketamine.

Challenges with Key Political Figures

Wiles raised concerns about Pam Bondi, the attorney general, regarding her management of files linked to the disgraced Jeffrey Epstein. She expressed frustration, asserting that Bondi failed to present the information effectively to Trump’s support base. “She completely whiffed on appreciating that this was the very targeted group that cared about this,” she said.

Furthermore, Wiles addressed Trump’s immigration policies, particularly the controversial deportation strategy that has faced scrutiny for its aggressive approach. She conceded, “We’ve got to look harder at our process for deportation.” Despite criticisms of several cabinet picks, Wiles defended them as a “world-class cabinet” capable of tackling entrenched bureaucracy and referred to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as “quirky Bobby,” commending his disruptive influence.