Crypto Czar No More, David Sacks Leaves Special Role

David Sacks announced his resignation as the White House’s AI and crypto czar on March 26 after fulfilling the 130-day limit for special government employees. Sacks will transition to co-chair of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST). This move allows him to continue influencing tech and AI policy while avoiding previous restrictions on his government service.

Sacks will now advise the administration on a broader range of technology topics, including AI, quantum computing, and nuclear power. The PCAST includes leading figures such as Marc Andreessen and Mark Zuckerberg. Sacks will focus on advancing the Trump administration’s AI framework and offering evidence-based recommendations.

Before stepping down, Sacks sold over $200 million in digital asset-related investments. This suggests a strategic shift in his personal investment approach. He also played a key role in shaping the administration’s crypto agenda, including efforts to pass stablecoin and market structure legislation. According to reports, the administration's crypto agenda includes such legislative efforts.

What Happens Next for the Crypto Policy Agenda?

The departure of Sacks leaves several major initiatives on digital assets unresolved. These include the creation of a permanent White House crypto council and the development of a U.S. strategic Bitcoin reserve. The Trump administration had aimed to create a clear regulatory framework for digital assets, but legislative progress has stalled.

The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act (CLARITY Act), which passed the House in July 2025, is still waiting for Senate action. A key issue remains the regulation of stablecoin yield payments. Senators Thom Tillis and Angela Alsobrooks have reached a tentative agreement on this issue with the White House. The proposed language would prohibit yield payments on passive stablecoin balances. This compromise aims to balance crypto innovation with banking system stability.

What Is Sacks' New Role at PCAST?

Sacks’ new role at PCAST means he will now advise on a broader range of technology issues. He will work alongside industry leaders to provide recommendations on science, technology, and innovation policy. According to Coindesk, the PCAST is a key advisory body that helps shape federal science and tech policy. Sacks’ focus will include AI, quantum computing, and energy innovation.

As co-chair, Sacks has more flexibility to influence long-term policy without the 130-day limit. He emphasized the importance of continuing to support the administration’s AI framework. This transition allows him to maintain his involvement in the tech space while expanding his advisory scope.

What Impact Could This Have on AI and Tech Policy?

Sacks’ continued influence through PCAST could shape the future of AI and technology policy. He has advocated for streamlining regulatory processes to support innovation. This includes efforts to simplify permitting and power generation procedures to facilitate infrastructure development.

His work in the White House previously included promoting a U.S. strategic Bitcoin reserve and advocating for clearer regulatory standards in the crypto space. These efforts remain in flux as lawmakers debate how to regulate digital assets. Sacks’ shift to PCAST suggests a more advisory role, but his input will likely continue to shape key policy decisions.

The ongoing debate over stablecoin regulation highlights the complexity of balancing innovation with financial stability. The proposed agreement between Tillis, Alsobrooks, and the White House remains under review by both the banking and crypto industries. According to reports, whether this deal holds will determine if the CLARITY Act moves forward or stalls again.