Trump Rules Out Bessent for AI Czar Role Amid 'Super Intelligence' Rebrand Push

Key points

• Trump stated on Truth Social that Scott Bessent will not be the 'Super Intelligence Czar,' noting Bessent does not want the role and is performing well at Treasury.
• The announcement followed reports from Semafor and Reuters that Bessent was being considered for the position, which Trump first proposed on September 19.
• Trump is attempting to rename AI to 'super intelligence,' claiming Chinese leader Xi Jinping agreed to the terminology during a recent state dinner.
• The White House has instructed diplomats to use 'super intelligence' in communications, though Xi’s interpreters continue to use the standard term 'artificial intelligence.'
• Tech experts and safety advocates warn that 'superintelligence' refers to a hypothetical AI surpassing human cognition, a definition distinct from current AI capabilities.

Background

On September 19, Trump announced plans to create an 'AI Force' and appoint an AI czar to accelerate U.S. AI development, framing it as a major economic driver. Earlier coverage noted that Bessent emerged as a frontrunner for the role, while Democrats criticized the rebranding efforts and the administration’s approach to AI safety.

How outlets are covering it

CNBC focused on the personnel decision, highlighting Trump’s justification for keeping Bessent at Treasury. The Washington Post emphasized the diplomatic and branding aspects, noting the clash between Trump’s preferred term and existing academic definitions. Axios highlighted the technical inaccuracy of the rebrand, pointing out that 'superintelligence' is a specific term in AI research referring to systems that exceed human cognitive performance, a concept that safety advocates like Geoffrey Hinton argue poses existential risks. While Trump claims international consensus on the new name, Xi’s interpreters continue to use the traditional terminology, suggesting a lack of actual agreement.

Why it matters

The decision to keep Bessent at Treasury signals a priority on financial stability over AI policy leadership, potentially delaying the formation of the AI czar’s office. The push to rebrand AI as 'super intelligence' risks confusing public and international discourse, as the term has established meanings in safety research that imply higher risks than current AI systems. This could complicate global negotiations and regulatory efforts, as the terminology clash may undermine the administration’s credibility in international AI discussions.

What to watch

Trump is expected to announce the AI czar in the near future, though the specific candidate remains unclear. The administration will likely continue using 'super intelligence' in official communications, despite resistance from the tech industry and international partners. The outcome of the AI czar appointment and the reception of the rebrand will influence U.S. AI policy and international relations in the coming months.