A new White House task force, led by Director of National Intelligence J. Clayton, will assess the risks and opportunities of artificial intelligence (AI) while working to prevent excessive regulation that could hinder innovation. The initiative comes as President Donald Trump has directed executive departments and agencies to use the term “Super Intelligence” (SI) instead of “Artificial Intelligence” (AI) in official communications, according to an executive order issued on September 29, 2026.
The task force, named the “Super Intelligence Force,” has been given 120 days to prepare a report on AI’s risks and opportunities, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported, citing Clayton. While there has been speculation that Clayton would become the administration’s new “AI Czar,” his appointment to that specific role has not been formally confirmed.
“The President directed a group to ensure America remains the leader in Super Intelligence and prioritizes the interests of the American people,” Clayton told the WSJ. “The risks of not leading are too great.” He added that if the United States does not lead, both identified and unidentified risks, particularly from rival nations, will increase. “By leading, we will be able to effectively address those risks in the interest of the American people.”
The task force’s mandate includes developing a plan to address potential societal risks from “Super Intelligence,” preventing over-regulation that could impede innovation and competition, and guarding against “regulatory capture.” It will also recommend ways to strengthen the government’s response capabilities within existing legal frameworks.
Key members of the task force include Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. The White House did not immediately provide comment to AFP when asked about the task force.
Trump’s “Super Intelligence” Directive
President Trump issued Executive Order 14434, titled “Inaugurating the Era of Super Intelligence,” on September 29, 2026. This order mandates that executive departments and agencies use the term “Super Intelligence” (SI) instead of “Artificial Intelligence” (AI) in their official communications. The executive order also initiated a process to review the statutory definition of AI, propose a new federal definition for SI, and evaluate corresponding amendments to existing federal laws.
Background and Initiatives
President Trump began his second term as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, 2025. His administration has been actively involved in shaping AI policy, releasing “America’s AI Action Plan” in July 2025 to accelerate innovation and expand US AI leadership globally.
J. Clayton, a long-time Wall Street lawyer, was confirmed by the Senate as Director of National Intelligence in July 2026 and assumed office on August 3, 2026. Clayton does not have a direct background in the technology industry. Before Clayton, venture capitalist David Sacks served as President Trump’s AI and Crypto Czar from January 20, 2025, to March 26, 2026. Sacks now co-chairs the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST).
The White House also hosted an AI summit on September 29, 2026, where leaders from major US technology companies signed “ethically binding” agreements to maintain control over AI development.
What Happens Next
The “Super Intelligence Force” task force is expected to submit its report on AI risks and opportunities within 120 days. The task force’s mandate includes making recommendations to strengthen the government’s response capabilities within its existing jurisdiction. The specific findings of the 120-day report and the detailed timeline for its submission remain unclear. Additionally, J. Clayton’s formal appointment as “AI Czar” has not been confirmed.
