New IRS Commissioner Announced: Shift in Tax Policy Coming?

President-elect Donald Trump has named former Congressman Billy Long as the next IRS Commissioner, replacing current head Danny Werfel in a move that signals a shift in tax policy leadership.

At a Glance

Trump nominates Billy Long, former Missouri Congressman, as new IRS Commissioner.
Long brings 32 years of business experience and six terms in Congress to the role.
Appointment requires Senate confirmation, with Republican majority expected in January.
Long’s nomination comes amid IRS modernization efforts and tax collection enhancements.

Trump’s Choice: Billy Long for IRS Leadership

In a significant move, 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. This decision effectively signals the end of current IRS leader Daniel Werfel’s tenure, who was appointed by President Biden in 2022 with a term set to last until 2027.

Long, known for his 32-year career in real estate and as a prominent auctioneer, brings a wealth of business experience to the role. His six terms in Congress have provided him with extensive knowledge of the legislative process and the intricacies of tax policy. Since leaving Congress, Long has worked as a business and tax advisor, assisting small businesses with IRS compliance, which positions him uniquely for this critical role.

President-elect Donald Trump says former Rep. Billy Long will be appointed to serve as the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service https://t.co/yQpu35VR6i

— Bloomberg (@business) December 4, 2024

Trump’s Endorsement and Long’s Qualifications

President-elect Trump has expressed strong support for Long, emphasizing his work ethic and bipartisan respect in Congress. Trump’s statement highlighted Long’s extensive business background and his understanding of the challenges faced by taxpayers and small businesses in navigating IRS regulations.

“Billy brings 32 years of experience running his own businesses in Real Estate and, as one of the premier Auctioneers in the Country,” Trump said in a statement. “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’s endorsement of Long as a “people person” suggests a potential shift in the IRS’s approach to taxpayer relations. The President-elect’s emphasis on Long’s business acumen and congressional experience indicates an intent to bring a more business-friendly perspective to the tax collection agency.

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, initiatives that Long will need to navigate if confirmed. His experience with the Employee Retention Tax Credit, established during the pandemic to help businesses retain employees, may prove valuable, though it has also been associated with fraud concerns that the IRS has been addressing.

“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.”

Long’s appointment, should it be confirmed by the Senate, would mark a significant shift in IRS leadership. With a Republican majority expected in the Senate come January, Long’s confirmation process could be smoother than it might have been under different circumstances. However, his past involvement with tax credits that have come under scrutiny may lead to pointed questions during confirmation hearings.

As the transition of power approaches, all eyes will be on Long and how he plans to lead the IRS through the complex landscape of tax policy and administration in the coming years.