Trump tasks Jay Clayton with leading artificial intelligence task force

U.S. President Donald Trump has appointed Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton to head a White House working group that will address issues related to artificial intelligence (AI).

Clayton, who was appointed to the position in August, will lead a task force expected to prepare, within 120 days, an assessment of the opportunities and risks associated with the advancement of AI technologies, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Describing the group as the “Superintelligence Force,” Clayton said its primary goal is to preserve the United States’ lead in artificial intelligence development while protecting American interests.

He has warned that the possibility of the United States failing to remain in first place in the development of advanced artificial intelligence technologies represents a significant risk.

Another responsibility of the task force will be to draft proposals for addressing the threats AI could pose to society. However, the Trump administration aims to avoid imposing excessive rules on the sector and prevent what it calls “regulatory capture,” arguing that such practices could hinder innovation and competition.

Officials cited by the Wall Street Journal said that managing most of the risks associated with AI is expected to be left to companies in the industry, while the government will cooperate with actors in the sector.

Artificial intelligence safety has taken on an increasingly important role in the American public debate. Some researchers have raised concerns about the potential consequences of developing increasingly advanced technologies, while Democratic and Republican lawmakers have called for action.

Trump has expressed reservations about stringent AI regulation. According to him, excessive oversight could weaken the United States’ ability to compete with China in this strategic field.

The group is also expected to include Vice President J.D. Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles.