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US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent could be President Donald Trump’s new artificial intelligence adviser, with his name emerging as a possible choice for the administration’s proposed “AI czar” role as concerns grow in Washington over the risks posed by the rapidly developing technology.Reuters reported on Tuesday, citing a source familiar with the discussions, that Bessent could take up the role. The Treasury Department did not immediately comment on the possibility, while a second source told Reuters that no decision had been made. The development comes days after Trump said he would appoint an AI adviser and create an “AI force”.
Why is Scott Bessent being considered?
Bessent has recently played a key role in US-China discussions involving artificial intelligence.
On Sunday, he led talks in New York with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng ahead of a planned meeting between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington.AI was among the major issues discussed during the talks. Bessent later said Washington had proposed creating a US-China AI dialogue, with a focus on national security concerns.The US also proposed an AI safety notification mechanism for incidents that could reach the level of a national security concern.
Bessent’s involvement comes as Washington and Beijing increasingly link AI to economic and national security issues, including competition over advanced technology and computing capabilities.
What is an ‘AI czar’?
“AI czar” is an informal term generally used for a senior official tasked with coordinating a government’s artificial intelligence policy. It is not a formal Cabinet position established under US law.Trump announced on September 19 that he planned to appoint an AI adviser and create an “AI force”, but did not provide details about the structure, powers or responsibilities of the proposed body.It remains unclear whether the new role would primarily coordinate AI policy across federal agencies, focus on national security or have a wider mandate covering the technology sector.
Trump’s stance on AI regulation
Trump has repeatedly argued against additional regulations that he says could slow the growth of the US AI industry. His administration has emphasised developing AI while using existing criminal and civil laws to address harmful activity.The proposed AI force comes as lawmakers and policymakers in Washington debate how the US should address the risks associated with increasingly powerful AI systems without limiting technological development.
What other roles does Bessent hold?
Bessent, a former hedge fund manager, has already been given several high-profile responsibilities by Trump. He has played a leading role in the administration’s trade policy overhaul and has been involved in negotiations with Ukraine over critical minerals.He also temporarily headed the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and is serving as acting commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service. The Treasury Department is also leading US efforts to economically isolate Iran through sanctions and other measures.
Who held the AI czar role before?
Bessent would not be the first Trump administration official associated with the AI czar title. Venture capitalist David Sacks previously served as Trump’s AI and cryptocurrency czar before stepping down from the formal role in March and moving to an external advisory position.The possible selection of Bessent would come as AI takes on a growing role in US economic, technological, and national security discussions, particularly in Washington’s relationship with Beijing.
