Overview
- The New York Times reported that David Sacks retained 708 tech stakes, including 449 tied to AI, while advising President Trump, and alleged his policy push benefited associates and potentially himself.
- Reporting said Sacks advocated easing limits on U.S. AI chip exports, preceding approval of a 500,000‑GPU sale to the UAE that some White House officials warned could pose security risks.
- Sacks publicly rejected the story as inaccurate, posted a defamation counsel letter, and said he complied with special‑government‑employee rules, though filings leave divestment timing and values unclear.
- The White House defended Sacks as “an invaluable asset,” and his spokesperson disputed a conflict narrative, while prominent tech and finance figures including Marc Andreessen, Bill Ackman and Sam Altman voiced support.
- Lawmakers such as Sen. Elizabeth Warren cited conflict‑of‑interest concerns and have pursued oversight of Sacks’ dual role and tenure as the administration’s AI and crypto adviser.