Trump Removes Billy Long as IRS Commissioner

President Donald Trump has removed Billy Long as IRS commissioner less than two months after his Senate confirmation, making him the sixth leader of the agency this year. Long, a former Missouri congressman known for proposing to abolish the IRS, faced criticism over his qualifications and management style, including early Friday departures and sidelining senior officials. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has been appointed as acting IRS chief until a permanent replacement is named. Under Trump, the IRS has experienced significant turmoil, losing nearly a third of its workforce and being ordered to support major administration priorities like deportations. Long is expected to be nominated as ambassador to Iceland, in line with the administration's practice of reassigning ousted officials to diplomatic posts. The sudden leadership change has led to speculation about political motives, including possible efforts to deflect attention from scandals such as investigations into Jeffrey Epstein’s tax affairs.