US President Donald Trump has announced plans to set up a dedicated AI Force to ensure America does not lose the artificial intelligence race to China. He also said an “AI Czar” will soon be appointed to oversee and drive the sector. Trump made the announcement on his social media platform, Truth Social.
Trump compared the move to the Space Force, the separate military branch he created during his first term. However, he has not clarified what the AI Force will do, how much budget it will receive, or whether it will operate under the military or as a civil body. The plan reflects growing concern in Washington that China could move ahead in AI at any moment. Even so, it appears intended as a major tool for preserving American dominance in technology.
Trump rejected calls from many experts worldwide for strict restrictions on the fast-growing technology. He said his government will not obstruct AI development and will support the industry’s growth in every way. He argued that existing laws are sufficient to deal with crimes committed using AI, and that new stringent rules will not be imposed to curb the freedom of AI companies.
Describing AI as the biggest industrial revolution ahead, many times larger than the internet revolution, Trump estimated that it could account for as much as 25 percent of the American economy in the future. He dismissed warnings by Democrats and some experts that AI could destroy the world, calling them a hoax and comparing them to fears about global warming.
US Attorney General Todd Blanche echoed the concern recently, saying, “We must not lose to China in the AI race, and this is a plain truth that everyone must accept.” The Trump administration believes that restricting American companies while China advances rapidly would let Beijing overtake the United States. The AI Force therefore appears aimed at giving American companies full freedom while keeping China in check. Details on the powers of the new force and the decisions the AI Czar will take are yet to be made public.