US President Donald Trump has announced plans to establish an “AI Force” and appoint an artificial intelligence czar as his administration faces growing debate over the risks and regulation of rapidly advancing technology.
Trump said in a social media post on Saturday that his administration would not hinder the growth of the artificial intelligence industry. He also rejected calls for development to be slowed until stronger safeguards are established.
Trump did not provide details on the structure, responsibilities or timeline of the proposed AI Force. He compared the initiative with the Space Force, which was established during his first term. He said an AI czar would be announced in the near future.
“We will not in any way hinder or stifle the Growth of this incredible Industry,” Trump wrote, adding that his administration would support and monitor the sector as it expands.
Trump said harmful uses of AI could be addressed through existing criminal and civil justice systems rather than through measures that could restrict the industry. The White House has not immediately provided further details about how the proposed force would operate or whether it would be a civilian or military organisation.
The announcement comes amid increasing warnings about the potential risks posed by increasingly capable AI systems. Technology executives, researchers and policymakers have been debating whether development should proceed at its current pace and what safeguards may be required.
Trump has argued that slowing US AI development could weaken the country’s position in the global technology race. He has repeatedly highlighted competition with China, saying the United States should maintain its lead in artificial intelligence.
He described AI as potentially comparable to the Industrial Revolution or the internet in its economic impact and said it could eventually account for as much as 25% of US gross domestic product. That figure was presented by Trump as a projection rather than an established economic estimate.
The United States and China are competing for leadership in advanced artificial intelligence, including the development of increasingly capable models, computing infrastructure and related technologies. AI is expected to feature in discussions when Trump meets Chinese President Xi Jinping next week.
Trump’s announcement also comes after renewed calls from some figures in the AI industry for stronger safeguards. At the same time, other technology leaders have argued that excessive restrictions could slow innovation and weaken US competitiveness.
The proposed AI Force would therefore enter an already divided policy debate over how governments should balance technological development, economic opportunities, national security and concerns about the potential misuse of artificial intelligence.
