Former US President Donald Trump announced on social media his intention to appoint a new artificial intelligence adviser, referred to as an “AI czar,” and to create an “AI force.” However, he did not disclose any specifics regarding these initiatives or their implementation.
In Washington, lawmakers are increasingly alarmed about the potential dangers AI technology poses to humans and property. Earlier this month, ex-Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon warned that developers of AI genuinely believe it could pose existential risks by the end of the decade. Despite these concerns, Trump has consistently minimized the threats associated with AI and opposed additional regulatory measures.
On his platform Truth Social, Trump emphasized that the growth of the AI industry would not be hindered or stifled. Instead, he pledged to support and oversee its development while remaining vigilant for any misconduct, which he said could be addressed through the existing criminal and civil justice systems.
If Trump proceeds with this plan, it would mark his second appointment to the AI czar role. Venture capitalist David Sacks previously held the position before resigning in the spring to take on an external advisory role. Sacks has also expressed skepticism about imposing new AI regulations, arguing that developers should be accountable for their products’ safety and liable for any issues, without the need for additional federal rules.
Trump’s announcement comes just days before his scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday. Both the US and China are vying for dominance in artificial intelligence, which is considered crucial to their economic and military capabilities. Trump and several technology leaders have warned that excessive regulation could impede US AI progress and weaken American firms’ competitiveness against Chinese counterparts, a stance often challenged by safety advocates.
Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is set to meet Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Sunday at JPMorgan Chase’s New York headquarters to discuss AI security, trade, and other economic matters.
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