David Sacks Steps Down as Trump’s Crypto and AI Czar, Welcomes New Role on Science Advisory Council

Share this story:

David Sacks Ends Tenure as Trump’s Crypto and AI Czar, Shifts Focus to Broader Technology Advisory Role

David Sacks, who has played a high-profile role as President Donald Trump’s adviser on cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence (AI), announced that his time serving as a special government employee in that capacity has ended. Speaking to Bloomberg on March 26, 2026, Sacks confirmed that he has used up the allotted 130 days permitted for his appointment, but emphasized that he will continue contributing to the administration’s technology agenda in a new role.

Moving forward, Sacks will serve as co-chair of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), an influential federal advisory panel composed of experts from academia and industry. The council provides evidence-based guidance to the president on a wide range of technology, scientific research, and innovation policies.

“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. He expressed confidence that this broader advisory role will enable him to influence policy beyond the specific focus on crypto and AI that characterized his previous position.

Sacks has been a central figure in the White House technology ecosystem since President Trump’s second term began. A veteran Silicon Valley entrepreneur, operator, and investor, he co-founded Craft Ventures in 2017, where he remains a partner. His expertise in startups and emerging technologies brought him close to the White House decision-making process.

During his tenure as crypto and AI czar, Sacks played a key role in shaping the administration’s AI framework, which was unveiled just last week. He indicated that he would continue to promote this framework and other technology initiatives from his position on PCAST.

Previously, Sacks publicly voiced support for deregulating permitting and power generation processes to expedite infrastructure development, all while aiming to avoid increases in residential electricity costs. This stance mirrors broader administration goals to facilitate rapid advancement of technological and energy infrastructure.

Sacks’ involvement in the crypto sector has attracted attention, including a March 2025 report revealing he sold over $200 million in digital asset-related investments. Despite the controversies that sometimes accompany crypto markets, Sacks remained a trusted advisor on related policies throughout his White House tenure.

As co-chair of PCAST, Sacks is expected to provide recommendations across a spectrum of emerging technologies, advising the president on how to effectively foster innovation and maintain U.S. leadership in science and technology.

His transition from a targeted role as crypto and AI czar to a broader technology advisory capacity marks an evolution in the administration’s approach to tech policy, integrating input from multiple sectors to shape comprehensive strategies.


Background:

  • David Sacks is a renowned Silicon Valley entrepreneur and investor, co-founder of Craft Ventures.
  • Served as President Trump’s special government employee on crypto and AI policy.
  • PCAST serves as an independent advisory body offering guidance on science and technology.
  • The Trump administration recently released an AI framework aimed at regulating AI development and deployment.
  • Sacks has emphasized balancing infrastructure growth with cost protections for consumers.

Related Coverage:

  • White House AI Policy Developments Under Trump Administration
  • Impact of Cryptocurrency on Federal Regulation
  • Future Directions of PCAST and Federal Science Advisories
Share this story: