US AI and crypto czar David Sacks denies breaching 130-day SGE work limit after lawmakers raised concerns over conflicts of interest.

David Sacks denies breaching 130-day SGE limit

A representative for U.S. artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency advisor David Sacks has dismissed claims that he surpassed the legally allowed 130-day threshold for serving as a special government employee (SGE).

According to a statement cited by CNBC on Wednesday, Sacks “closely monitors” his work schedule to remain compliant with the limit, noting that the 130 days are not required to be consecutive.

Limits and Congressional Questions

The doubts arose after Senator Elizabeth Warren and a group of lawmakers sent a letter requesting clarification. They noted that since President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 167 working days have passed, so Sachs would have had to take at least 37 days off to avoid violating the rules.

The SGE’s role is limited to 130 days to reduce the risk of conflicts of interest, as officials with this status can keep jobs in the private sector.

Criticism over investments

In the letter, the lawmakers noted that Sachs is “deeply invested” in crypto and artificial intelligence companies that his office regulates. “The White House has effectively lifted ethical restrictions, allowing you to keep these assets,” they said.

Sachs was appointed as the Trump administration’s “AI and Crypto Czar” in December 2024, sparking optimism among industry supporters. His task is to push through new rules before the 2026 midterm elections.

Warren keeps up the pressure

This is not the senator’s first attack. Warren has previously questioned Sachs’ claim that he sold all of his cryptocurrency before Trump’s inauguration. She has called for public financial disclosures through the Office of Government Ethics and suggested that Trump and his inner circle could benefit from digital asset policies.