David Sacks, a prominent figure in both the technology and cryptocurrency sectors, is transitioning from his role as a special advisor to President Trump on artificial intelligence and digital assets. He’s taking on a recent position as co-chair of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), a move that expands his advisory remit beyond the specific domains of AI and crypto to encompass a broader range of technological issues. This shift comes as the administration prioritizes maintaining American leadership in emerging technologies and navigating the evolving landscape of innovation.
Sacks, known for his venture capital work and early involvement with PayPal, had served as special government employee (SGE) with a time limit of 130 days. He explained the transition in a recent interview with Bloomberg Television, stating, “In the first year of the Trump administration, I had a role as an SGE…we’ve now used up that time.” The interview highlighted his belief that the PCAST co-chair position will allow him to offer recommendations on a wider spectrum of technology policy.
Expanding the Scope of Tech Policy Advice
The White House announced the appointments to PCAST on Wednesday, March 25, naming Sacks and Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science & Technology Policy and assistant to the President for Science & Technology, as co-chairs. President Trump initially established PCAST in January 2025 through a presidential action, emphasizing the critical require for the United States to maintain dominance in key technological areas like AI, quantum computing, and biotechnology.
PCAST’s mandate, as outlined in a White House fact sheet, centers on strengthening American leadership in science and innovation. The council will focus on the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies, with a particular emphasis on ensuring the American workforce is prepared for the “Golden Age of Innovation.” This includes championing investments in research and development and working to reduce bureaucratic obstacles to technological advancement.
A History of Tech Advocacy and Skepticism of Regulation
Sacks’ appointment to the advisory role in December 2024 drew attention due to his well-documented views on technology and regulation. Reports at the time, including coverage from PYMNTS.com, noted his technology-friendly stance and a consistent record of questioning the need for extensive government oversight in the tech sector. This perspective is likely to influence the recommendations PCAST puts forward.
His background includes significant involvement in the cryptocurrency space, as well as a long career as a venture capitalist. He’s been a vocal advocate for blockchain technology and decentralized finance, often contrasting these approaches with traditional financial systems. His earlier work at PayPal provides a foundation in understanding the evolution of digital payment systems.
PCAST’s Broader Mandate and Initial Focus
Sacks articulated his vision for PCAST in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, March 26.
PCAST is the principal body of external advisors tasked with shaping science, technology and innovation policy for the President and the White House. Thirteen of the world’s most accomplished leaders in science and technology will join us as this PCAST’s initial members. Together we will make policy recommendations to ensure that America leads — and wins — in artificial intelligence and other cutting-edge technologies.
— David Sacks (@davidsacks) March 26, 2025
While his initial focus as special advisor was on AI and crypto, the PCAST role allows for a more comprehensive approach. The council is expected to address a wider array of technological challenges, including cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, and the ethical implications of emerging technologies. The White House has indicated a particular interest in ensuring that technological advancements benefit the American workforce and contribute to broad-based economic growth.
The appointment of 13 additional tech leaders to PCAST alongside Sacks and Kratsios signals a commitment to drawing on diverse expertise. The council is intended to be a forum for collaboration between government and the private sector, fostering innovation and ensuring that policy decisions are informed by the latest technological developments.
The PCAST is expected to play a key role in shaping the administration’s technology agenda in the coming months. The council’s first set of recommendations is anticipated in the late spring, focusing on strategies to bolster American competitiveness in AI and other critical technologies. Stakeholders across the tech industry and policy circles will be closely watching the council’s work as it unfolds.
As Sacks transitions into his new role, the focus will be on translating the administration’s vision for technological leadership into concrete policy proposals. The PCAST’s success will depend on its ability to navigate the complex interplay between innovation, regulation, and economic opportunity.
The next scheduled public update from PCAST is expected in May, when the council will release a preliminary report on its findings regarding the state of AI research and development in the United States. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on these developments and the future of technology policy in the comments below.
