President-elect Donald Trump has announced that David Sacks, a seasoned technology executive and podcaster, will serve as the "White House A.I. & Crypto Czar." In this critical role, Sacks will be responsible for guiding policy on artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency, two areas deemed vital to the future of American competitiveness.

Sacks, who previously served as the Chief Operating Officer of PayPal, will focus on making the United States a clear global leader in both AI and crypto. His appointment follows that of fellow PayPal Mafia member Elon Musk, who was tapped to co-lead the "Department of Government Efficiency." Like Musk, Sacks will serve as a special government employee, allowing him to work up to 130 days a year without divesting or publicly disclosing his assets.

In addition to his AI and crypto policy role, Sacks will also lead the Presidential Council of Advisors for Science and Technology, an independent advisory committee that provides guidance on science and technology policy. This dual role will enable Sacks to leverage his expertise in both areas to drive innovation and growth in the US technology sector.

According to Trump's announcement, Sacks will prioritize safeguarding free speech online and steering the country away from Big Tech bias and censorship. He will also work on establishing a legal framework for the crypto industry, providing much-needed clarity and enabling the sector to thrive in the US. This move is likely to be welcomed by the crypto community, which has long advocated for clearer regulations and guidelines.

Sacks' appointment is seen as a strategic move by the Trump administration to tap into the expertise of Silicon Valley insiders. The former PayPal executive has a strong track record in the tech industry, having founded Yammer, a social networking platform, and co-hosting the popular All-In Podcast. His connections to the tech community, including his fundraising efforts for Trump's campaign, are likely to serve him well in his new role.

The news comes on the heels of Trump's announcement that former Republican Securities and Exchange Commissioner Paul Atkins will lead the SEC. This series of appointments suggests that the Trump administration is prioritizing technology policy and regulation, recognizing the critical role these areas will play in shaping the country's economic and competitive future.

As the US tech industry continues to evolve and grow, the appointment of David Sacks as the "White House A.I. & Crypto Czar" is likely to have significant implications for the development of AI and crypto policy. With his unique blend of tech industry expertise and policy experience, Sacks is well-positioned to drive innovation and growth in these critical areas, ensuring the US remains a leader in the global technology landscape.