Trump Nominates Former Congressman Billy Long to Lead IRS

The pick, a former auctioneer with limited tax policy experience, has drawn both praise and criticism for his potential to reshape the agency.

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Billy Long, a former Missouri congressman and auctioneer, to serve as the next IRS Commissioner, replacing current chief Danny Werfel, whose term runs until 2027.
Long's background includes co-sponsoring efforts to dismantle the IRS and eliminate the estate tax, but he lacks significant experience in tax administration compared to previous commissioners.
Progressive lawmakers and advocates have criticized the nomination, warning it could undermine recent IRS reforms targeting wealthy tax evaders and improving taxpayer services.
Supporters, including fiscally conservative groups, view Long as a potential reformer who could simplify the tax code and address perceived inefficiencies in the agency.
If confirmed by the Senate, Long would oversee an $85 billion agency with 85,000 employees, inheriting its ongoing initiatives like expanded audits of wealthy individuals and a new free tax filing system.