Donald Trump has appointed Stephen Miller as his new White House chief of staff, replacing Susie Wiles in the first major personnel change since Republicans lost the midterm elections.
Miller, previously deputy chief of staff, has been a central figure in shaping the administration’s immigration policies. Voter data suggests the Democrats’ gains were partly driven by opposition to Mr Trump’s immigration enforcement.
His appointment signals that Mr Trump is preparing for a confrontation with an opposition-controlled Congress, according to analysis of the change. Miller is regarded as supportive of broad executive power and is expected to play a prominent role as the administration faces increased scrutiny.
The outgoing Congress has only a short period to act before Democrats take control of both chambers in January. Its immediate priority is keeping the federal government open, with funding due to expire on 11 December.
Lawmakers are expected to pass a short-term measure to extend funding, rather than negotiate the 12 annual spending bills, because of the limited time and lack of political appetite for a wider agreement.
Republicans hold only a two-seat majority in the House, meaning absences among members defeated in the midterms could disrupt attempts to complete the party’s legislative business. Senate Republicans are also expected to seek confirmation of as many judges and Trump appointees as possible before Democrats take control.
Once Democrats are in charge, those confirmations are unlikely to proceed without significant concessions from the White House, according to congressional analysis.
