**Tech Giants Reap Rewards as Trump Appoints Allies to Key Positions**
Silicon Valley magnates and venture capitalists who supported Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential bid are now enjoying the fruits of their allegiance, as the President-elect continues to place his backers in pivotal roles.
Just after his electoral triumph, Trump selected one of his most notable supporters, **Elon Musk**, to head a newly established agency, the **U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)**. Now, another technology powerhouse is being honored: investor, entrepreneur, and podcaster **David Sacks**.
“I am thrilled to announce that David O. Sacks will assume the position of ‘White House A.I. & Crypto Czar,'” Trump revealed in a message on his social media platform, Truth Social. “In this vital role, David will steer policy for the Administration in Artificial Intelligence and Cryptocurrency, two sectors essential to the future of American competitiveness.”
### A Fresh Position for a Recognizable Figure
As per Trump, Sacks’ duties will encompass protecting free speech online, formulating a regulatory structure for the cryptocurrency sector, and leading the **Presidential Council of Advisors for Science and Technology**. His appointment arrives at a moment when AI is swiftly progressing, and the cryptocurrency industry, despite its image of fraud, is expecting favorable treatment after significantly backing Trump during the election.
Sacks’ new position has already garnered applause from industry leaders. OpenAI CEO **Sam Altman** took to X (formerly Twitter) to applaud the announcement, posting, “Congrats to czar @DavidSacks!”
### Who Is David Sacks?
For those acquainted with Musk’s X platform, Sacks is a well-known figure. He has attracted attention for his contentious opinions on global politics, notably his commentary regarding Russia’s conflict with Ukraine. Detractors have labeled him pro-Russia and accused him of instilling fear regarding the prospect of World War III.
Sacks shares an interesting background with Musk. Both came to the U.S. from South Africa and were members of the renowned “PayPal Mafia,” a collective of early PayPal employees and founders who later found significant success in the tech industry. In 1999, Sacks collaborated with Peter Thiel at PayPal, where Musk also played a crucial role.
In 2008, Sacks co-founded **Yammer**, a business-focused social media platform. Four years later, Microsoft acquired Yammer for $1.2 billion, incorporating it into its Microsoft 365 suite. Since then, Sacks has established himself as a prolific investor, founding the venture capital firm **Craft Ventures** in 2017. Additionally, he co-hosts the popular **All-In** podcast with Jason Calacanis, Chamath Palihapitiya, and David Friedberg, discussing business and current events. Over time, the podcast has increasingly leaned towards right-wing politics, even inviting Trump for an interview in June and broadcasting live from the Republican National Convention this summer.
### A Shift Towards Right-Wing Ideals
Sacks has progressively cultivated a reputation within conservative circles, frequently opposing progressive politicians and initiatives. While he once condemned Trump’s involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot, labeling it disqualifying for a second term, Sacks has since changed his position. Earlier this year, he hosted a prominent fundraiser for Trump’s campaign, indicating his alignment with the former president’s agenda.
### A Strategic Decision Pays Off
Sacks’ transition to supporting Trump seems to have yielded positive results. With his new position as A.I. & Crypto Czar, he is poised to shape significant policies in two of the most crucial and contentious domains of modern technology. Whether his rapport with the 47th president endures in the years ahead remains to be seen, but one fact is evident: Sacks’ strategic alliance with Trump has earned him a place at the forefront of shaping America’s technological landscape.