First, there was Space Force. Now, Trump’s planning an ‘AI Force’

US President Donald Trump announced plans to appoint a new artificial intelligence adviser, known as an “AI tsar,” and create an “AI force,” though he did not provide specific details about either initiative or its implementation. The announcement came in a social media post on Saturday, reflecting his continued stance against regulating AI development. Fears are growing in Washington among lawmakers about the risks posed by AI technology to humans and property. Earlier this month, former Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon expressed concerns that “people building AI earnestly believe that it could kill us all by the end of the decade.” Trump has consistently downplayed these concerns, arguing that additional regulation is unnecessary. “We will not in any way hinder or stifle the Growth of this incredible Industry,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Rather, we will cherish it, help it, and watch over it, as it grows! However, we will also be looking for BAD, and we can do that, very easily, with our already existing Criminal and Civil Justice System.” If Trump follows through on the pledge, it would mark his second appointment of an AI tsar. Venture capitalist David Sacks previously held the role before stepping down in the spring and transitioning to an external advisory position. Sacks has echoed Trump’s skepticism toward new AI regulations, stating at a Politico event that AI developers should be held accountable for ensuring the safety of their products and that new federal rules are unnecessary. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Trump’s post. The announcement comes ahead of his scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday. Both Washington and Beijing view artificial intelligence as crucial to their economic and military strength, and the two nations are engaged in a competitive race to lead in the field. Trump and technology executives argue that excessive regulation would slow U.S. AI development and weaken American companies’ ability to compete with Chinese rivals. This claim is frequently refuted by safety advocates who emphasize the potential dangers of unregulated AI advancement. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is set to meet with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Sunday at JPMorgan Chase headquarters in New York to discuss AI security, trade, and other economic matters. A person familiar with the planning confirmed the details of the meeting. The move aligns with Trump’s broader strategy to promote technological innovation while maintaining a hands-off approach to oversight. His previous creation of the Space Force during his first term suggests a pattern of establishing specialized entities to manage emerging technologies. The proposed AI force would likely mirror that structure, aiming to coordinate efforts across government agencies and private sector stakeholders. Despite the lack of specifics, the proposal has sparked discussions within political circles about the implications of such a framework. Some analysts suggest that the AI force could serve as a mechanism to streamline policy-making and ensure alignment with national interests, while others warn of the challenges in balancing innovation with ethical considerations. As the administration moves forward, the focus will remain on how these initiatives will be structured and implemented. With the upcoming meetings with Chinese officials, the U.S. aims to assert its leadership in AI development and maintain strategic advantages in the global tech landscape. The outcome of these discussions could shape the future trajectory of AI governance and international competition in the field.