Trump’s AI chief expresses outrage over New York Times article about suspected unethical behavior

Donald Trumps appointed head of artificial intelligence expressed strong objections to a recent New York Times article suggesting possible self-interest in his role and highlighting the close ties he has fostered between the Trump administration and leading tech figures.

David Sacks, who is associated with fellow South Africa-linked tech billionaires Peter Thiel and Elon Musk, is part of a group currently influencing conservative politics in the U.S. Before assuming office this term, Trump appointed Sacks an investor, occasional podcaster, and supporter of Vice President JD Vance to oversee AI and cryptocurrency policy, a position Sacks described as allowing him to continue engagement in Big Tech while guiding White House initiatives.

The AI sector, heavily subsidized by taxpayers and increasingly deregulated, has benefited substantially under Trumps policies this year, with Sacks playing a central role in shaping this environment.

Over the weekend, the Times cited financial documents indicating that Sacks held at least 449 stakes in companies with connections to artificial intelligence that could benefit, directly or indirectly, from his policy decisions. These documents have not undergone independent verification by MS NOW.

A spokesperson for Sacks told the Times that he had followed all regulations for special government employees and had divested some, though not all, of his AI-related holdings. A White House representative confirmed that potential conflicts had been addressed.

The report also questioned certain waivers allegedly granted to Sacks, which permit him to work on policy while maintaining private industry ties, labeling his position as one of the most lucrative moonlighting roles in the federal government.

Rejecting the article as a hoax, Sacks said he had retained legal counsel and requested that the Times retract the story, claiming it was based on a willful misunderstanding of his responsibilities. The Times responded Monday, stating it continues to stand by its coverage of Sacks, calling him a significant and influential figure within the administration.

Author: Aiden Foster