In a recent social media post, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to appoint a new artificial intelligence adviser, or “AI czar,” and establish an “AI force.” This announcement comes amidst growing anxieties in Washington about the potential dangers AI technology poses to people and property. However, Trump provided little detail on how these initiatives would be implemented, leaving many questions unanswered.
Concerns surrounding AI’s risks have been escalating. Earlier this month, ex-Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon expressed fears that the technology, if mishandled, could prove disastrous by the end of the decade. Despite such warnings, Trump has consistently downplayed the necessity of additional regulations, asserting that they would impede industry growth. “We will not in any way hinder or stifle the growth of this incredible industry,” he declared on Truth Social, his social media platform. Instead, he emphasized the importance of overseeing and guiding AI development, while allowing the existing justice system to address potential malpractices.
This would not be Trump’s first appointment of an AI czar. Venture capitalist David Sacks previously held the position before transitioning to an external advisory role. Both Trump and Sacks share a skepticism toward increasing regulation in the AI sector. At a recent Politico event, Sacks advocated for developers to bear responsibility for their products’ safety and be liable for any issues, deeming new federal regulations unnecessary.
The White House has yet to comment on Trump’s announcement. This development precedes Trump’s impending meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting strategic AI considerations in the U.S.-China rivalry. As both nations vie for technological leadership, AI emerges as a crucial component of their economic and military strategies. Trump and tech leaders argue against over-regulation, claiming it could stifle U.S. innovation and competitiveness against Chinese entities, a stance often contested by safety advocates.
Meanwhile, a meeting led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng is planned for Sunday at JPMorgan Chase headquarters in New York. The agenda reportedly includes discussions on AI security, trade, and other economic topics, underlining the ongoing dialogue between the two global powers in shaping AI policies.
The unfolding narrative in AI policy highlights a complex interplay between fostering innovation and managing global competition, with national security increasingly intertwined with technological prowess. As details about Trump’s AI czar remain sparse, stakeholders across various sectors are eagerly awaiting clarity on the administration’s approach to managing this critical area.
You can read the original article here: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/19/trump-says-he-will-appoint-a-new-ai-adviser-without-providing-details.html
