Trump says he will form 'AI Army' and appoint 'high-IQ' czar

On September 20, Trump said on Truth Social that he plans to create an "AI Army" and will soon appoint an "AI czar" to oversee artificial intelligence matters, describing the role as open only to high-IQ applicants. He compared the initiative to his establishment of the Space Force during his first term, calling that effort a major success.

Trump criticized calls to slow down AI development, saying his administration "will in no way hinder or stifle" the growth of the industry. He argued that any "bad actors" in AI could be handled through existing criminal and civil justice systems. On AI's economic impact, he said it could become "the next industrial revolution" or "the next internet," with even greater scale and influence, potentially accounting for as much as 25 percent of U.S. GDP. He added that the United States currently leads the world in AI and intends to keep that lead.

Trump also questioned the term "artificial intelligence," suggesting alternatives such as "superintelligence," "ultimate intelligence," or "superior intelligence." A poll he launched on social media had drawn nearly 170,000 votes, with "superior intelligence" leading at 40.7 percent. Elon Musk responded to the post, saying it would be "an incredibly smart move for us."

The announcement comes as U.S. political figures prepare for the upcoming midterm elections, seeking to balance support for technological innovation with public concerns over its rapid development and risks.