President Donald Trump is expected to select Jay Clayton, the director of national intelligence, to oversee development of the United States’ artificial intelligence industry, according to reports cited by Al Jazeera. The decision could be announced as early as Friday, Al Jazeera said. The New York Times reported that Clayton will also serve as the AI czar.
Clayton was confirmed as director of national intelligence in July, the Times said. Trump said last month on social media that he would name a new AI czar, writing, “Only High I.Q. individuals need apply!” Al Jazeera reported that venture capitalist David Sacks had previously held the AI czar role, resigned earlier this year and became an external adviser to Trump. The reported selection comes amid calls for government involvement in rapidly developing AI technology.