Trump Removes IRS Chief Amid Fraud Concerns

President Donald Trump has removed Billy Long as IRS commissioner less than two months after his Senate confirmation, marking the sixth leadership change at the agency this year. Long, a former Missouri congressman and auctioneer with little tax policy experience, is expected to be nominated as ambassador to Iceland. His swift ouster drew criticism from Democrats, who raised concerns over his involvement in pandemic-era tax credit programs that were flagged for fraud and his lack of expertise in tax administration. The White House has not provided a reason for the removal, while Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will act as interim commissioner. The IRS continues to face significant workforce reductions, management upheaval, and scrutiny over controversial data-sharing agreements and tax credit fraud investigations. Long’s brief tenure underscores ongoing turmoil and political controversy at the agency.