Bessent in line for AI czar role under Trump

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent could become President Donald Trump’s new AI czar, a source familiar with the discussions said Tuesday, as Washington lawmakers grow concerned about AI risks. Trump has downplayed those concerns, arguing additional regulation is unnecessary. Treasury had no immediate comment on the possible role, first reported by Semafor. Trump said Saturday he plans to appoint an AI advisor and create an “AI force,” without providing details. Bessent led Sunday talks with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, focusing heavily on AI and proposing a U.S.-China AI safety notification mechanism. Bessent, a former hedge fund manager, already leads U.S. trade policy revamp, negotiates with Ukraine on critical minerals, and temporarily heads the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. He also serves as acting IRS commissioner, while his Treasury pushes to isolate Iran economically through sanctions.