Trump could tap Treasury Secretary Bessent as AI czar: Report

President Donald Trump’s much-touted AI czar role could be filled by the US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as per the sources.

According to Reuters citing sources privy to the matter, Bessent has emerged as leading candidate to take up the role of the administration’s new artificial intelligence adviser. It was first reported by Semafor.

No immediate response came from the Treasury regarding Bessent’s possible new role. Although no final decision has been made, there are chances for Bessent being a top contender.

In addition to Bessent, some other candidates are also under consideration including White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Director Michael Kratsios, a longtime technology policy adviser to US President Donald Trump, and Office of Personnel Management Director Scott Kupor.

However, the White House denied such reports. "Any reporting about personnel decisions that have not been officially announced by the administration should be regarded as baseless speculation," White House spokesperson Kush Desai said in a statement.

Trump previously assigned former hedge fund manager Bessent to lead a sweeping overhaul of U.S. trade policy, handle critical mineral negotiations with Ukraine, and serve as the interim head of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

On Saturday, President Trump announced plans to appoint an AI czar who will advise the administration over artificial intelligence and alongside it create an “AI force.” However, he did not disclose further details regarding these roles and initiatives and how they would be implemented.

When it comes to AI fears, Trump downplayed them by calling it a hoax and sick conspiracy aimed at stifling America’s advancement in the competitive tech landscape.

The reports come as Trump and Xi Jinping are scheduled to meet on Thursday and will discuss AI safety concerns.