Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) tore into former President Donald Trump’s decision to replace chief of staff Susie Wiles with immigration hardliner Stephen Miller, calling the move a “colossal mistake” that could further alienate voters and hinder GOP legislative efforts.
In a fiery interview on CNN’s “The Lead,” Tillis blamed Miller’s past policy influence for Republican losses in the midterms, particularly among Hispanic voters. “We lost the narrative on the border,” Tillis said, arguing that Trump’s border security successes were overshadowed by Miller’s polarizing approach to immigration and homeland security.
‘Worst of All Possible Choices’
Tillis didn’t mince words about Miller’s reputation, calling him “one of the most partisan, polarizing figures” in Republican politics. The North Carolina senator warned that Miller’s appointment would make it harder to work with newly empowered Democratic majorities in Congress.
“How do we think somebody with as divisive of a background as Stephen Miller is going to be the olive branch we need?” Tillis asked CNN host Jake Tapper. The criticism comes just days after Republicans underperformed in midterm elections that many in the party expected to dominate.
Post-Election GOP Soul-Searching
The senator’s remarks reflect growing Republican infighting after disappointing election results. Tillis directly linked Miller to policy decisions he believes cost the party crucial votes, particularly on immigration issues where Trump had previously made gains with Hispanic communities.
“The president made this decision, and the president needs to rethink it,” Tillis said, while acknowledging Trump’s ultimate authority over staff appointments. The unusually public rebuke from a sitting Republican senator signals potential turbulence ahead for Trump’s 2026 political operations.
Source: www.breitbart.com โ https://www.breitbart.com/clips/2026/11/06/tillis-trump-appointing-stephen-miller-chief-of-staff-a-colossal-mistake/