Trump admin science director says American tech can 'manipulate time and space'

WASHINGTON (TNND) — White House Director of Science and Technology Michael Kratsios on Monday suggested the United States has technology that can “manipulate time and space.”

The comment came during remarks on “the golden age of American innovation” at the Endless Frontiers Retreat in Austin, Texas. Kratsios said during the event that American technological developments have stalled compared to the 20th century.

“A gap lies between our moment and the speed of transformation America experienced midcentury,” he said. “Progress has slowed.”

He continued by explaining a recent “stagnation” in technological development happened by choice. The nation, he argued, is “capable of so much more.”

“Our technologies permit us to manipulate time and space,” Kratsios said. “They leave distance annihilated, cause things to grow, and improve productivity.”

Kratsios did not explain what technology his remark referred to, though the address went on to mention artificial intelligence, biotech and semi-conductors.

The remarks come as the Trump administration announced several exemptions to allowing technology companies to evade its recent tariff blitz. Apple watches, laptops and semiconductor equipment are among a slew of items exempted from the staggering tariffs on Chinese goods and the base 10% tariff applied to all other imports.

The president on Wednesday also released a fact sheet regarding his plan to involve technology in his plan to increase government efficiency. That document cited a presidential memo directing government agencies to “make maximum use of technology” for infrastructure projects.

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