New IRS Commissioner Picked by President-elect Trump

Former congressman Billy Long tapped by Trump to lead the IRS, signaling a major shift in tax agency leadership.

At a Glance

President-elect Donald Trump nominates Billy Long as next IRS Commissioner.
Long brings 32 years of business experience and six terms in Congress to the role.
Appointment would replace current IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel.
Long’s nomination requires Senate confirmation.
Trump praises Long’s bipartisan respect and people skills.

Trump Taps Former Congressman for IRS Leadership

President-elect Donald Trump has announced his intention to nominate Billy Long, a former Missouri congressman, as the next Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service. This strategic move signals a significant change in leadership at the nation’s tax collection agency, as Long would replace current Commissioner Danny Werfel, who was appointed by President Joe Biden in 2022.

Long, who served six terms in Congress, brings a wealth of experience to the position. With 32 years in real estate and as a prominent auctioneer, Long’s background aligns with Trump’s vision for the IRS leadership. Since leaving Congress, Long has worked as a business and tax advisor, assisting small businesses with IRS compliance.

Trump’s Endorsement and Long’s Qualifications

Trump’s endorsement of Long is rooted in their long-standing relationship and Long’s reputation in Congress. The President-elect praised Long’s work ethic and bipartisan appeal, emphasizing his potential to connect with both taxpayers and IRS employees.

I am pleased to announce that former Congressman Billy Long, of the Great State of Missouri, will be appointed to serve as the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Billy brings 32 years of experience running his own businesses in Real Estate and, as one of the…

— Trump Posts on 𝕏 (@trump_repost) December 4, 2024

Trump highlighted Long’s congressional experience, noting, “He… served 12 years in Congress because he ‘felt it was important for his constituents to have a Representative who has signed the front of a check!'” This blend of business acumen and legislative experience positions Long as a unique candidate for the IRS leadership role.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Long’s nomination comes at a time when the IRS faces significant challenges and opportunities. The Biden administration has been investing in modernizing the agency and enhancing tax collection efforts. If confirmed, Long would be responsible for navigating these ongoing initiatives while potentially implementing new directives from the incoming Trump administration.

Long’s experience with the Employee Retention Tax Credit, a pandemic-era measure he has promoted, may come under scrutiny. This tax credit has been associated with significant fraud and unexpected costs to the government, prompting the IRS to take measures to address fraudulent claims. Long’s approach to this and other tax policies will likely be a focal point during the confirmation process.

The Road to Confirmation

Long’s appointment as IRS Commissioner requires Senate confirmation. With Republicans expected to hold a majority in January, the confirmation process could be smoother for Trump’s nominee. However, Long’s past statements and actions, including his promotion of the Employee Retention Tax Credit, may face scrutiny from senators on both sides of the aisle.

As the nomination moves forward, taxpayers and IRS employees alike will be watching closely to see how Long’s leadership might reshape the agency’s priorities and operations in the coming years. The transition from Werfel to Long, if confirmed, would mark a significant shift in the IRS’s top leadership and potentially its overall direction.