Trump confirms national intelligence chief as new AI czar

President Donald Trump has appointed national intelligence chief Jay Clayton to head a new White House task force on artificial intelligence, according to AFP. The task force, dubbed the Super Intelligence Force by Trump, is set to ensure the US maintains leadership in AI development amidst intense competition from China. Trump shared the news on his Truth Social platform, stating the force's mission is to protect American interests and enhance the lives of all Americans.

Clayton, a seasoned Wall Street lawyer, previously served as head of the Securities and Exchange Commission under Trump's first term. The appointment comes amid growing concerns from AI researchers about the technology's potential dangers, following instances of AI systems malfunctioning and being exploited by malicious actors. Despite these warnings, Trump has resisted calls for tighter AI regulation, arguing that potential economic slowdowns could benefit Chinese competitors and that law enforcement can handle misuse.

Tech executives at a recent White House meeting pledged to self-regulate AI, a move Trump characterized as "morally binding."