Trump Names Intelligence Chief Jay Clayton as AI Task Force Head
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ILLUSTRATIVE IMAGE — Modern data server room with network racks and cables, representing the infrastructure used to support digital and artificial intelligence systems. |
WASHINGTON — October 4, 2026
U.S. President Donald Trump has appointed Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton to lead a new federal task force focused on artificial intelligence, giving the intelligence chief a central role in the administration's effort to keep the United States ahead in AI.
Trump said Clayton will head the newly created Super Intelligence Force, which will coordinate the federal government's work on what Trump calls “super intelligence.” The task force will engage with AI companies, consumers, religious groups and other stakeholders as it examines the technology's potential and risks.
Trump said the group will work to ensure that the United States remains a global leader in advanced AI while protecting American interests. The announcement confirmed that Clayton had been selected to lead the administration's broader effort on the technology.
Clayton said the task force will have 120 days to produce a report examining the risks and opportunities created by AI. It will also recommend what role the federal government should play in managing the technology.
AI safety has become a growing concern in Washington and among technology researchers. Some researchers have warned about the possibility of highly advanced AI causing severe harm, while lawmakers from both major U.S. political parties have called for greater attention to potential risks.
Trump has generally favored limited regulation of AI, arguing that excessive government restrictions could hurt U.S. competitiveness, particularly in relation to China. He has also said he does not want to cooperate with Chinese President Xi Jinping on establishing rules for AI development.
Clayton's task force will examine how the federal government currently reports AI-related incidents, including security breaches, hacking and other problems. It will also consider ways to improve the government's ability to respond to such incidents under existing legal authorities.
The new task force represents the second time during Trump's second term that an adviser has been given a broad role overseeing AI policy across the administration. Venture capitalist David Sacks previously held the administration's AI czar position.
Trump said Clayton will work alongside Federal Trade Commission Chairman Andrew Ferguson, Pentagon Chief Technology Officer Emil Michael and Office of Personnel Management Director Scott Kupor. The task force will report to Trump and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles.
Clayton became director of national intelligence in August, placing him at the head of the U.S. intelligence community. His new AI role brings national security, technology policy and federal oversight together as the administration seeks to expand America's position in the rapidly developing field.
