New IRS Commissioner Appointment: Billy Long Looks to Take the Helm

President-elect Donald Trump nominates former Congressman Billy Long as IRS Commissioner, signaling a shift in leadership for the tax agency.

At a Glance

Trump taps Billy Long, former Missouri Congressman, to lead the IRS.
Long brings 32 years of business experience and six terms in Congress.
Appointment requires Senate confirmation, likely with Republican majority.
Long to replace current IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel after inauguration.
Trump praises Long’s bipartisan respect and people skills.

Trump Announces Billy Long as IRS Commissioner Nominee

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 (IRS). This appointment, which requires Senate confirmation, would replace the current IRS leader, Danny Werfel, who was appointed by President Joe Biden in 2022.

Long, who served six terms in Congress, brings a diverse background to the role. With 32 years of experience running his own businesses in real estate and as a prominent auctioneer, Long’s appointment aligns with Trump’s strategy of bringing business acumen to government positions.

Long’s Background and Trump’s Endorsement

Trump’s statement highlighted Long’s extensive experience and post-congressional work. “Since leaving Congress, Billy has worked as a Business and Tax advisor, helping Small Businesses navigate the complexities of complying with the IRS Rules and Regulations,” Trump noted. This experience could prove valuable in leading the complex operations of the IRS.

The President-elect emphasized Long’s reputation in Congress and his ability to work across party lines. Trump praised Long as a “people person” who is well-respected on both sides of the aisle, suggesting that this bipartisan respect could be beneficial in leading the IRS.

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 tasked with navigating these ongoing initiatives while potentially implementing new priorities under a Trump administration.

“I have known Billy since 2011 – He is an extremely hard worker, and respected by all, especially by those who know him in Congress,” Trump stated. “Taxpayers and the wonderful employees of the IRS will love having Billy at the helm. He is the consummate ‘people person,’ well respected on both sides of the aisle.”

One area of potential scrutiny is Long’s involvement with the Employee Retention Tax Credit, a pandemic-era program that has been associated with significant fraud. Long’s experience promoting this credit and his claims of success in processing claims without IRS denial may face examination during the confirmation process.

Former Rep. Billy Long, R-Mo., got the nod from President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday to be his nominee for IRS commissioner. https://t.co/vryapVvj2T pic.twitter.com/pqrha7vGpW

— Roll Call (@rollcall) December 5, 2024

Looking Ahead to Confirmation

Long’s appointment is subject to Senate confirmation, which is expected to occur with a Republican majority in January. His extensive political experience and bipartisan relationships may prove advantageous during this process. However, his past involvement with tax credits and his views on IRS operations will likely be areas of focus during confirmation hearings.

As the transition of power approaches, Long’s nomination signals potential changes in IRS leadership and policy direction. Taxpayers and IRS employees alike will be watching closely to see how Long’s business background and congressional experience might shape the future of the nation’s tax collection agency.