America First Legal operates as a conservative legal advocacy organization founded in 2021 by Stephen Miller following the conclusion of his tenure in the first Trump administration. Born in 1985 in Santa Monica, California, Miller built a career as a political advisor and speechwriter, eventually ascending to high-level positions within the federal executive branch of the United States.
Early Development and Education
Miller attended Santa Monica High School from 1999 to 2003, where he engaged in local political activism. During his youth, he frequently appeared on The Larry Elder Show, using the platform to advocate for institutional changes such as the daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. He later enrolled at Duke University to study political science. While at Duke, he founded the campus chapter of Students for Academic Freedom and wrote a column for The Duke Chronicle titled Miller Time.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Legislative and Political Foundation
After graduating in 2007, Miller pursued a career in political communications. He served as a press secretary for U.S. representatives Michele Bachmann and John Shadegg. In 2009, he joined the staff of Alabama senator Jeff Sessions. In this capacity, Miller focused on immigration policy and contributed to the effort that resulted in the defeat of the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013.
White House Tenure and Subsequent Roles
Miller served as Senior Advisor to the President and director of speechwriting from 2017 to 2021. He supervised the drafting of inaugural and State of the Union addresses. His work included roles in shaping immigration policies, including Executive Order 13769. As of 2025, he holds the positions of White House Deputy Chief of Staff and Homeland Security Advisor.
Fast facts
- Born: 1985, Santa Monica
- Education: Duke University
- Senior Advisor to the President: 2017-2021
- Founder: America First Legal
- High School: Santa Monica High School
- Political Positions: White House Deputy Chief of Staff, Homeland Security Advisor
Questions readers ask
What is America First Legal?
It is a conservative legal advocacy organization founded by Stephen Miller in 2021.
What positions did Miller hold in 2025?
He serves as the White House Deputy Chief of Staff and the Homeland Security Advisor.
Achievements
- Notable work: America First Legal
- Educated at Duke University
- Worked as speechwriter, writer and politician
