The Trump administration's AI policy team is reorganizing as key architects depart, leaving a broader group of officials to steer the agenda. David Sacks has stepped back from day-to-day involvement, and Siriam Krishnan is preparing to leave, shifting influence inside the White House.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has emerged as a pivotal figure, recently signing a letter that sparked a confrontation with Anthropic, leading to the takedown of two of its models. Last week, Lutnick imposed export controls on the AI lab, creating a licensing regime that could affect other companies.
On the international stage, Lutnick is leading meetings on the sidelines of the G7 to discuss expanding access to advanced AI models. He also stood alongside President Trump during his summit press conference, signaling his rising prominence in AI policymaking.
The rapid pace of technological change and the departure of key officials are forcing the administration to adapt its AI strategy on the fly. This shakeup underscores how personality-driven the White House's approach remains, with no single permanent AI czar yet appointed.
Critics argue that relying on a shifting cast of advisers without formal structure could lead to inconsistent policy, especially as export controls and lab oversight grow more complex.