Donald Trump has announced the creation of a “Super Intelligence Force” intended to ensure the United States leads in artificial intelligence development, while also addressing its potential risks.
The US president revealed the four officials who will make up the taskforce in a post on Truth Social, following an earlier indication that an AI force was being planned.
The group will be led by National Intelligence Director Jay Clayton, alongside Federal Trade Commission chairman Andrew Ferguson, Under Secretary of Defence Emil Michael and Office of Personnel Management director Scott Kupor.
Mr Clayton, who will serve as the force’s czar, told the Wall Street Journal that he was confident in the team’s experience and range of expertise.
“I feel very comfortable that we’ve gotten a group with a lot of experience, diverse skill sets and a common commitment,” he said.
He added: “These are all serious people who have addressed opportunities and risks in the past and are committed to doing this so that America wins the SI race and we win it through the benefit of the American people.”
The announcement follows a meeting between Mr Trump and leaders of several AI and technology companies, at which the industry outlined plans for internal reviews and company-led safeguards. A subsequent press release publicising the work misspelled the president’s title.
Mr Trump has rejected calls to slow the development of artificial intelligence and has described concerns about its growing capabilities as a hoax.
Meanwhile, Senator Bernie Sanders has introduced legislation seeking to ban super intelligence and establish government oversight.
