Brandon Fletcher
President Donald Trump faces significant challenges ahead of the midterm elections, exploring various strategies to lower gas prices while reiterating his threats to decisively confront the Islamic Republic of Iran. In a noteworthy development, reports from Semafor suggest that Trump may consider moving Scott Bessent from his current position as Treasury Secretary to take on the role of Artificial Intelligence Czar.
According to Semafor, other candidates under consideration for this influential role include Michael Kratsios, Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, and Scott Kupor, Director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. The publication references insights from three sources close to the situation.
Bessent has already established himself as a key authority on AI within the Trump administration. Recently, he held discussions with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, aiming to develop a collaborative framework for AI safety measures that both nations could agree upon. During an interview with CNBC, he stated, “When President Trump mentioned appointing an AI Czar, it’s about providing context, structure, and clarity around these critical issues.”
While Trump’s recent fervor for AI might suggest that the title of “AI Czar” is a new position, it is not entirely unprecedented. David Sacks, a prominent tech venture capitalist and podcaster, previously held the title before stepping down in March due to regulations affecting special government employees.
Trump’s announcement of the search for a new AI Czar came via a post on Truth Social over the weekend, where he also proposed the creation of an “AI Force.” This declaration coincided with a series of pro-AI social media posts, asserting that “We”—referring to either his administration or the broader United States—will “cherish” AI. He further emphasized the need to “support” its development while also monitoring for negative implications using existing criminal and civil justice frameworks. This statement outlines the administration’s approach to AI.
Trump appears to have a particular affinity for generative AI and the memes it produces. His recent surge of AI-related posts has sparked concern among his followers, including reactions from former staff members.
On September 19, Trump announced plans to rename AI, inviting his social media followers to participate in selecting a new name through polls. The initial options included Superior Intelligence (SI), Extreme Intelligence (EI), and Supreme Intelligence (SI). Superior Intelligence won the polls, but after running additional polls, he settled on “Super Intelligence” as the final choice. He now claims that “Super Intelligence” will be the term utilized in official government documents.
Throughout the summer, as discussions surrounding AI security dominated headlines, Scott Bessent increasingly focused on AI, as reported by Semafor. Although the potential transition may seem to divert Bessent from his role at the U.S. Treasury, it could align more closely with his interests. Should he be appointed, it’s conceivable that he might take on the title of “Super Intelligence Czar,” a designation that may not carry the same allure.
Daniel Mercer
David Bridges
