Trump plans AI czar and 'AI force' as US-China competition heats up

President Donald Trump announced Saturday he plans to appoint an "AI czar" and create an "AI force," without providing details on implementation, as concerns grow among lawmakers about artificial intelligence risks. Trump, who has downplayed AI dangers and opposed new regulation, said on Truth Social he will not stifle the industry's growth but will rely on existing criminal and civil justice systems to address problems. The move would mark his second AI czar after David Sacks stepped down in spring. The announcement precedes Trump's scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday, as both nations compete for AI leadership. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will also meet Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Sunday to discuss AI security and trade.