Who is Jay Clayton? Trump’s Pick for AI Czar

Key Insights:

• Jay Clayton, the current U.S. DNI and former SEC Chair, could become Donald Trump AI czar.
• Clayton’s SEC tenure included the agency’s 2020 Ripple lawsuit, which alleged that Ripple raised more than $1.3 billion.
• The potential appointment would give Trump AI policy a national security and regulatory focus. Although Clayton’s exact AI responsibilities remain unclear.

President Donald Trump can name current director of national intelligence Jay Clayton as his next White House AI Czar, Reuters reported on Oct. 2, 2026.

Jay Clayton could retain his intelligence position while additionally serving in the White House. The White House has not officially confirmed the appointment.

The choice is eye-catching because Jay Clayton’s career has involved financial regulation, law enforcement, and national security. The previous government didn’t focus on those areas.

Why Trump is Looking to Jay Clayton for AI

Trump has been preparing to develop a new AI policy framework in the White House. Reuters reported that Trump said last month he planned to appoint an AI adviser, whom he has termed an “AI czar,” and to create an “AI force.”

The administration has not yet publicly explained how the proposed force would operate or define the new adviser’s responsibilities. Officials generally expect the force to become part of Donald Trump’s AI policy as the administration increases its focus on artificial intelligence.