US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that he intends to appoint a new artificial intelligence adviser, or “AI czar”, and establish an “AI force”, although he did not explain how either initiative would be organised or put into operation.
Trump announced the plans in a post on Truth Social, saying his administration would encourage the expansion of the AI sector while relying on existing civil and criminal justice systems to deal with any potential misconduct.
“We will not in any way hinder or stifle the Growth of this incredible Industry,” Trump wrote. “Rather, we will cherish it, help it, and watch over it, as it grows!”
US-CHINA AI RACE
Trump’s announcement comes shortly before his planned meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday, as the US and China continue competing for dominance in artificial intelligence.
Both nations consider AI crucial to their economic and military capabilities. Trump and several technology industry leaders have maintained that heavy regulation could slow innovation in the US and make American firms less competitive against Chinese companies. AI safety advocates, however, have challenged that argument.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is also expected to meet Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Sunday at JPMorgan Chase’s headquarters in New York. According to a person familiar with the plans, the talks are likely to include AI security, trade and other economic matters.
AI SAFETY CONCERNS GROW IN WASHINGTON
The announcement comes amid increasing concern among US lawmakers and technology specialists about the possible dangers artificial intelligence could pose to people and property.
Earlier this month, former Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon said that people working seriously on AI believe the technology could represent an existential threat within the next decade.
Trump has repeatedly downplayed concerns over AI risks and has argued against introducing additional regulations. He has also warned that excessive rules could hinder the expansion of the US AI industry.
If Trump proceeds with the appointment, it would bring the position of AI czar back into his administration. Venture capitalist David Sacks previously occupied the role before leaving it in the spring to take up an external advisory position.
Sacks has also opposed additional federal regulation of AI. Speaking at a Politico event on Wednesday, he said AI companies should take responsibility for the safety of their products and could face liability when their systems cause problems.
