David Sacks Transitions From Crypto Czar to Key Policy Advisor

David Sacks, the White House advisor for artificial intelligence (AI) and cryptocurrency, said he has completed his 130-day term as a Special Government Employee (SGE) and is stepping down from his role.

In an interview with Bloomberg, he said he has “used up” his time in the position and will now serve as co-chair of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), where he will provide recommendations on a broader range of technology topics.

“I think moving forward as co-chair of PCAST, I can now make recommendations on not just AI but an expanded range of technology topics,” Sacks said.

PCAST is a federal advisory committee composed of experts from universities and businesses who study technology and science and give advice to the president.

Role in AI and crypto policy

During his time, Sacks advised the Trump administration on policy related to digital assets and AI. He worked on unifying the U.S. AI strategy, noting that “currently, 50 states regulate this area differently, creating a patchwork regime that makes it difficult for innovators to comply. Therefore, the president has called for unified rules.” He also supported the release of the Trump administration’s AI framework.

In addition, he was involved in the regulatory efforts for the cryptocurrency industry. He helped develop recommendations for the President’s Working Group on Financial Markets and supported legislative initiatives such as the GENIUS Act, which focuses on stablecoins, and the CLARITY Act, which sets clear rules for digital money. Before joining the White House, Sacks sold his cryptocurrency holdings to avoid any conflict of interest.

Transition to PCAST

The SGE role limits experts to 130 days of service in a year. After reaching this limit, Sacks could no longer hold the czar position. However, through PCAST, he is expected to continue influencing government decisions on AI, cryptocurrency, and other technologies. 

PCAST has 13 members from major technology companies, including Jensen Huang (Nvidia), Mark Zuckerberg (Meta), Larry Ellison (Oracle), Lisa Su (AMD), Marc Andreessen (Andreessen Horowitz), and Michael Dell (Dell Technologies). The council studies key issues and gives recommendations to the president.

Sacks’ background

Sacks began his technology career in 1999 at PayPal, working alongside Elon Musk, Peter Thiel, and Reid Hoffman. He later founded Yammer, a platform for workplace communication, and co-founded the venture capital firm Craft Ventures in 2017. 

Although he is no longer the dedicated AI and crypto czar, Sacks is expected to remain engaged in shaping policy on AI, cryptocurrency, and other technology matters through his new role on PCAST.

The White House has not announced a replacement for Sacks’ previous position, and it is unclear if the responsibilities will go to a new person or be shared among existing advisors.

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