Trump Removes IRS Commissioner Long, Bessent Acts as Interim

President Donald Trump has removed Billy Long as commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service less than two months after Long took office. Long, who was confirmed by the Senate in June 2025, is expected to be nominated for an ambassadorship, though the specific post remains undisclosed. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will serve as acting IRS commissioner during the leadership transition. This marks the latest change in a series of IRS leadership shifts under Trump, who has cycled through multiple acting commissioners since his second inauguration. The agency faces significant challenges, including expected staff reductions and a major IT system overhaul, heightening concerns about continuity and effectiveness amid the leadership turmoil. No official reason for Long's removal has been provided, sparking commentary from tax professionals and observers about the potential destabilizing impact on the IRS.