US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he plans to establish an “AI Force” and appoint an artificial intelligence “czar” to oversee the administration’s approach to the rapidly developing technology.
Trump compared the proposed initiative to the Space Force, which was established during his first presidential term.
“For this purpose, I am forming the AI Force, much like I did Space Force, which has been a tremendous SUCCESS, in my First Term,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“To that end, I will be announcing, in the near future, the AI ‘Czar’ — Only High I.Q. individuals need apply!”
The announcement comes amid growing debate in the United States over how governments should respond to increasingly capable AI systems. Trump has opposed calls for stronger restrictions, recently describing fears surrounding advanced AI as a “hoax.”
In Saturday’s announcement, he stressed that his administration would seek to encourage the industry rather than restrict its development.
“We will not in any way hinder or stifle the Growth of this incredible Industry. Rather, we will cherish it, help it, and watch over it, as it grows!” Trump wrote.
He said harmful applications of the technology could be dealt with through the existing criminal and civil justice system rather than through extensive new AI regulations.
Trump also portrayed artificial intelligence as a potentially transformative economic force, comparing its significance to the Industrial Revolution and the emergence of the internet. He suggested AI could eventually account for as much as 25% of US GDP, although he did not provide evidence supporting that estimate.
“We are leading China, and the rest of the World, and I intend to keep it that way!” Trump wrote.
The precise structure, powers and responsibilities of the proposed AI Force and its future “czar” have not yet been announced.