President Trump is expected to appoint Jay Clayton, the current Director of National Intelligence, as the White House's AI czar. Clayton would maintain his leadership over the 18-agency U.S. intelligence community while taking on the new artificial intelligence portfolio.
Reports surfaced Oct. 1 indicating Trump's likely choice. The President previously told reporters a decision on an AI czar would come within three or four days. He also posted on social media that "Only High I.Q. individuals need apply!" for the position.
The White House declined to confirm the appointment. An official said, "Any personnel announcement will be announced directly by the President. Any reporting until then is baseless speculation."
Clayton was confirmed as Director of National Intelligence by a Senate vote of 51 to 47 and assumed the role on Aug. 3. Before his DNI appointment, he served as the U.S. attorney in Manhattan.
The new AI czar position is expected to oversee the nation's artificial intelligence strategy. Trump has emphasized that the U.S. will not "hinder or stifle the Growth of this incredible Industry." He announced the formation of an "AI Force," drawing a parallel to the Space Force established during his first term, and predicted AI could account for as much as 25 percent of the country's gross domestic product.
Trump has also vowed to maintain U.S. leadership over China and other nations in AI development.
