White House AI and Crypto Czar David Sacks said Thursday he was joining the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology and leaving the czar role.
WASHINGTON — David Sacks, the White House’s AI and Crypto Czar, announced Thursday that he is stepping down from his high-profile “czar” position to take on a new role on the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST).
In a statement, Sacks said the move aligns with the administration’s priorities to integrate cutting-edge technology policy directly into high-level advisory channels.
“I’m honored to have served as the White House AI and Crypto Czar,” Sacks wrote. “I look forward to continuing my service to the country by contributing to the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, where I can help shape long-term strategy on AI, blockchain, and emerging technologies.”
### A Shift in Role, Not Influence
Sacks was appointed early in President Donald Trump’s second term as the administration’s point person on artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency policy. His role involved coordinating across agencies on issues ranging from crypto regulation to U.S. competitiveness in AI.
The President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology is a prestigious, non-partisan body that provides independent advice to the president on matters involving science, technology, and innovation. Members are typically leading experts from academia, industry, and research institutions.
By transitioning to PCAST, Sacks moves from an operational “czar” position — often criticized as lacking formal authority — to a more formal advisory role with direct access to the president on science and tech policy.
### Background on David Sacks
David Sacks is a prominent technology investor and entrepreneur. He co-founded PayPal alongside Elon Musk, Peter Thiel, and others, and later founded Yammer, which was acquired by Microsoft. He has been a vocal advocate for cryptocurrency and blockchain innovation, as well as a critic of overly burdensome regulation in the tech sector.
His appointment as Crypto Czar was widely celebrated in the crypto industry, which saw it as a signal that the Trump administration was serious about making the United States a global leader in digital assets.
### What This Means for Crypto and AI Policy
Industry observers suggest the move could signal a maturation of the administration’s approach to tech policy. While the “czar” role brought high visibility, embedding Sacks within PCAST may allow for more sustained, expert-driven influence on policy recommendations that reach the Oval Office.
Crypto market reaction was muted in early trading Friday, with Bitcoin holding steady near recent highs. However, several industry leaders took to social media to praise Sacks’ continued involvement.
“David Sacks has been a tireless advocate for innovation,” said one prominent venture capitalist. “His voice on PCAST will ensure that pro-innovation voices are heard at the highest levels.”
The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment on who might replace Sacks in the AI and Crypto Czar role, or whether the position will continue in its current form.
CoinDesk is making this article its preferred story on Google for readers interested in White House crypto developments.