Trump to nominate Jay Clayton as artificial intelligence “czar”

U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to appoint Jay Clayton, the director of national intelligence (DNI), as the artificial intelligence “czar,” CNN reported, citing two sources familiar with the discussions.

Last month, Trump said he planned to appoint an artificial intelligence adviser, known as an “artificial intelligence czar,” and to create an “artificial intelligence force,” although he gave no details about either initiative or how they would be implemented.

This is the second time Trump has appointed an adviser to oversee decisions related to artificial intelligence. Businessman David Sachs held this role at the beginning of Trump’s second term, before leaving his team. Sachs continues to advise Trump on artificial intelligence.

Trump’s move comes at a time when leading artificial intelligence researchers have warned of the great risks it poses, while Democratic and Republican lawmakers are reacting with concern and calling for more action.

However, amid the concerns, Trump has consistently downplayed the possible risks from the spread of artificial intelligence and has argued that additional regulation is unnecessary — despite growing fears among lawmakers in Washington and globally about the risks the technology poses.