Republicans Criticize Stephen Miller’s Promotion to Chief of Staff

Several Republican lawmakers have expressed anger over President Donald Trump’s decision to promote Stephen Miller to Chief of Staff. Rep. Marlin Stutzman from Indiana described the move as a ‘horrible decision’ during a conversation with Fox News Digital.

One Republican, who spoke anonymously, shared their disbelief over the decision. They, along with other Republicans, criticized Miller after the party’s poor performance in the midterm elections. Many blamed him for his role in Trump’s immigration policies.

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A House Republican jokingly responded with a facepalm emoji when asked about Miller’s promotion. After suffering historic losses in Congress, Republicans saw both the House and Senate fall under Democratic control, with Democrats on track to secure over 250 seats in the House and at least 54 in the Senate.

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Analyses have suggested that Trump’s handling of the war in Iran and tariffs were major factors in the GOP’s electoral defeat. Additionally, his approach to illegal immigration alienated voters in key regions, notably Hispanic and Latino communities.

Stutzman commented, ‘Because of his immigration positions, we ruined a lot of our goodwill with Latino voters.’ Another GOP lawmaker noted that Miller ignored warnings from Republicans about the negative impact of his immigration enforcement strategies.

Several House Republicans had cautioned Miller that his policies were upsetting constituents in red districts, affecting both voters and donors. Yet, these warnings were allegedly disregarded.

Other Republicans voiced criticism of Miller but stopped short of saying he should be dismissed. Rep. Don Bacon remarked, ‘He’s hurt the administration and cost us seats.’

Bacon pointed out that an immigration policy, once popular, had become unfavorable due to Miller’s influence. Miller is known for his role in shaping Trump’s tough stance on immigration, which included controversial measures that faced backlash.

Some Republicans, especially in battleground states, urged Trump to restrict deportations to individuals who committed crimes in the U.S.

Another GOP lawmaker stated, ‘Stephen should have never been given the keys. He isn’t why we lost, but no one in our districts knows who he is.’

Other administration officials, including Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, also faced criticism for the election results. Trump and his team, however, blamed the quality of candidates, noting that the president campaigned more vigorously than some candidates did for themselves.

Trump announced Miller’s promotion on Truth Social, praising him as a ‘most trusted advisor’ and expressing confidence in his future performance.

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White House spokeswoman Lauren Bis stated, ‘Miller has played a crucial role in advancing President Trump’s agenda, including crime reduction and deregulation.’ She added, ‘In his new role, he will continue to achieve significant successes for Americans.’

Vice President JD Vance praised Miller as a ‘patriot’ who will ‘do great things.’ House Freedom Caucus Chairman Andy Harris commended Miller’s record on securing the border and combating crime.

A White House official praised Miller’s collaboration with Democrats on initiatives such as the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force. Since 2016, Miller has been considered a valuable and trusted aide by the administration.

Elizabeth Elkind reports on politics for Fox News Digital, with a focus on the House of Representatives. Her past work includes contributions to the Daily Mail and CBS News.

Follow her on Twitter @liz_elkind or send tips to [email protected].