In a significant move to address the burgeoning challenges posed by artificial intelligence, US President Donald Trump has launched the “Super Intelligence Force,” a task force designed to coordinate federal AI policy and assess associated risks. National Intelligence Director Jay Clayton will spearhead this initiative, which aims to balance maintaining the United States’ technological leadership with addressing emerging security concerns.
This task force is set to explore potential AI-related risks in various sectors, including financial services, energy, transportation, agriculture, and emergency services. It is tasked with examining cybersecurity, biosecurity, water infrastructure, civil liberties, and safeguards for advanced AI systems. The initiative will draw upon contributions from several federal agencies, such as the Pentagon, the Justice Department, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Federal Trade Commission.
The group’s mandate includes delivering recommendations to President Trump within 120 days on AI risks, security standards, and the potential consequences of excessive regulation. The task force may also consider the necessity for AI laboratories to report security breaches, hacking incidents, and attempts to bypass system safeguards.
Jay Clayton will chair the task force, supported by vice chairs including FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson, Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Emil Michael, and Office of Personnel Management Director Scott Kupor. Notable members include Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, while external participants like former AI adviser David Sacks and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will also contribute.
However, the initiative has faced criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who have questioned whether the task force can provide enforceable protections without legislative backing. Despite this, the Trump administration asserts that AI oversight should focus on addressing security and public safety risks without stifling innovation.
