Following the announcement that President-elect Donald Trump will appoint David Sacks as the White House AI and crypto czar, Daniel Castro, director of ITIF’s Center for Data Innovation, has expressed his views on this decision.

Castro stated: "It’s welcome news that the incoming Trump administration is tapping a Silicon Valley leader to head its AI policy. David Sacks brings first-hand experience growing U.S. tech companies and can offer policymakers strategic insights on what the U.S. government should do to better compete globally." He emphasized the challenge facing the Trump administration in maintaining U.S. leadership in AI as China rapidly advances in this field due to continued investments in technology, data, and skills.

Castro noted that many countries are deploying AI in critical sectors at a faster pace than the United States. He warned that without accelerated AI adoption, not only would the U.S. tech sector lag behind but also other economic interests could be at risk. He advised that policies should focus on using AI to protect economic interests and national security while addressing legal challenges faced by U.S. AI firms from previous administrations.

He remarked: "Taking on both AI and crypto will be a big portfolio, made more challenging by the fact that these technologies are advancing rapidly." Castro recommended providing Sacks with a capable team to manage these critical issues effectively.

The Center for Data Innovation recently released a report highlighting China's strategic investments and drive in AI innovation, signaling it may soon match or surpass U.S. capabilities.

For further information, Nicole Hinojosa can be contacted at [email protected]