Donald Trump IRS chief removal has sparked intense discussion in Washington after President Trump made the surprise decision to remove Billy Long from his position as commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service barely two months since Long was sworn in. On Friday, August 8, two senior White House officials confirmed the development, marking another abrupt shake-up at the nation’s tax agency.
Billy Long, a former Missouri congressman, was confirmed by the Senate in a 53-44 vote on June 12, 2025. His appointment drew scrutiny due to Long’s past involvement with companies alleged to have peddled questionable tax credits, but he received strong backing from Senate Republicans who defended his leadership potential.
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Timeline and Key Details
- June 12, 2025: Billy Long confirmed as IRS Commissioner.
- June 16, 2025: Long officially sworn in.
- August 8, 2025: Trump announces Long’s removal, just 53 days into his tenure.
Long’s removal appears to be part of a broader reorganization at the IRS. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has been named acting commissioner until a permanent replacement is selected.
Factors Behind the Shake-Up
While the official statement from the White House did not offer a clear rationale, several factors contributed to the tension:
- Controversial Background: Long previously ran a firm that marketed pandemic-era employee retention tax credits, which the IRS later declared fraudulent.
- Democratic objections: Several senators called for criminal inquiries into Long’s alleged role in tax credit schemes, with accusations that companies connected to Long misled investors.
- Agency Challenges: The IRS continues facing organizational strain, including mass layoffs and a challenging period marked by multiple leadership changes.
Immediate Aftermath
Following his removal, Long announced on social media that Trump intends to appoint him as U.S. ambassador to Iceland, signaling an unusual career pivot after his brief stint atop the IRS. Meanwhile, the IRS is tasked with rolling out Trump-backed reforms including increased tax relief for workers and permanent changes to child tax credits. Treasury Secretary Bessent will oversee the transition, as the agency braces for new federal tax legislation and clean energy incentives.
IRS Under the Trump Administration: Fast Facts
| Commissioner | Confirmed | Tenure Length | Reason for Removal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Billy Long | June 2025 | 2 months | Undisclosed; reassigned |
| Scott Bessent (Acting) | Aug 2025 | – | Interim appointment |
What Comes Next for the IRS?
Long’s swift departure leaves the IRS at a crossroads. In 2025, the agency lost over 11,000 employees and nearly a third of its auditors, largely due to sweeping reorganizations and budget tensions. The latest leadership change occurs as the IRS prepares to enact wide-ranging tax reforms anticipated by the GOP’s budget bill. With Scott Bessent, a seasoned Treasury veteran, temporarily in charge, many taxpayers and policymakers are watching for signs of stabilization and clarity on future tax reforms.
Whether you follow politics, economics, or tax news, these moves shake up expectations for IRS operations and oversight in the months ahead. What’s your take on Trump’s decision to remove his handpicked IRS chief so soon after confirmation? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned for further updates as this story continues to unfold.