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Trump Signals Jay Clayton as a Possible AI Czar as White House Weighs New AI Force

September 29, 2026 at 17:24 EDT

Policy & Regulation
Foundation Models

President Trump said Tuesday that Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton would be a good choice for AI czar, putting a former SEC chair and current intelligence chief into the mix as the White House searches for a new point person on artificial intelligence. Trump said he has "somebody in mind" and wants to make a pick in the next three or four days, while the role's formal duties remain undefined.

Sept. 29, 2026 · White House AI policy

Trump weighs Jay Clayton for AI czar

The president signaled that the intelligence chief could take on a new AI role as the administration considers an AI Force and leans on voluntary industry standards.

3-4

days for a possible pick

agencies under the DNI

confirmed AI meeting attendees

90+

AI Action Plan policy actions

The security portfolio behind the candidate

18 agencies

Clayton's current DNI role sits atop the U.S. intelligence community, making the AI question as much about national security as technology policy.

Policy path under discussion

Name a czarSelection expected soon

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Define AI ForceAuthority not yet detailed

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Rely on accordVoluntary reviews and audits

Supporters' read

A security-centered appointment could align AI oversight with infrastructure, foreign competition and model-risk concerns.

Critics' concern

The role and voluntary standards remain undefined, leaving open questions about enforcement and transparency.

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