Trump Taps Former Rep Billy Long to Replace Danny Werfel as IRS Commissioner

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In a bold departure from tradition, President-elect Donald Trump has announced former Congressman Billy Long of Missouri as the next IRS commissioner. This decision overrides the five-year appointment of current commissioner Danny Werfel, who was expected to serve until 2027. Traditionally, presidents have allowed sitting IRS leaders to complete their terms to ensure continuity.

Trump’s choice signals a shift in leadership at the Internal Revenue Service, raising questions about the future of the agency. While Werfel’s tenure brought modernization and increased enforcement, Long’s appointment may steer the IRS in a new direction more aligned with Republican priorities.

Billy Long: Trump’s Unconventional Choice

Billy Long served in Congress from 2011 to 2023, representing Missouri’s 7th District. During his time in the House, Long focused on issues like energy, infrastructure, and homeland security, though he did not serve on tax-writing committees. Following an unsuccessful Senate run in 2022, Long transitioned to the private sector as a certified tax and business advisor, assisting small businesses with IRS compliance.

Known for his affable demeanor and bipartisan respect, Long has advocated for simplifying the tax system. He co-sponsored legislation to abolish the IRS and replace the federal income tax with a national sales tax. Trump’s statement lauded Long as a “people person” with deep experience helping taxpayers navigate complex regulations.

Why Replace Current IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel?

Danny Werfel, appointed by President Biden in 2022, oversaw significant reforms at the IRS. He used funding from the Inflation Reduction Act to modernize the agency, improve customer service, and enhance enforcement efforts. These initiatives led to shorter processing times, a smaller backlog of returns, and the recovery of $1.3 billion in unpaid taxes from high-income households. Despite these achievements, Werfel’s tenure faced Republican opposition. GOP lawmakers criticized expanded enforcement efforts, alleging middle-class taxpayers might face undue scrutiny. Trump’s decision to replace Werfel aligns with Republican goals of scaling back the IRS’s budget and limiting its enforcement capabilities. 

Meanwhile, Long’s appointment reflects Trump’s preference for placing loyalists in key positions. Critics argue that this move undermines the bipartisan intent of five-year terms, which aim to shield the IRS from political interference.

IRS Programs Under Threat of Defunding

Several programs launched under Werfel’s leadership now face potential defunding. These programs were aimed at modernizing the IRS and ensuring fair tax collection:

• Direct File Initiative. One of Werfel’s most notable projects was the Direct File program, allowing qualifying taxpayers to file their returns directly with the IRS for free. This initiative aimed to simplify the tax filing process, especially for low-income households. However, many Republican lawmakers oppose the program, arguing that it competes unfairly with private tax preparation companies. Under Long’s leadership, this program could face downsizing or termination.
• Enhanced Enforcement. The Biden administration invested heavily in IRS enforcement, particularly targeting high-income tax evaders. These efforts led to significant recoveries, including $1.3 billion in overdue taxes from wealthy individuals. Critics argue that scaling back enforcement would primarily benefit those who can afford to exploit loopholes, reducing revenue and widening the deficit.
• Customer Service Improvements. Under Werfel, the IRS hired thousands of customer service representatives, reducing processing times and improving taxpayer assistance. These changes addressed years of complaints about the agency’s inefficiency. However, proposed budget cuts could reverse these gains, leading to longer wait times and a return to backlogged returns.
• Technology Modernization/ Werfel also prioritized updating the IRS’s outdated technology systems, enabling the digitization of paper tax forms and streamlining operations. Without continued funding, the agency risks falling behind, making it harder to meet the needs of taxpayers and enforce compliance effectively.

Long’s Potential Impact on the IRS

Billy Long’s appointment as IRS commissioner could herald a shift in the agency’s focus. Republicans have historically opposed aggressive tax enforcement, and Long’s leadership may emphasize taxpayer assistance over audits. Key programs launched under Werfel, like the Direct File initiative for free tax preparation, may face reevaluation or downsizing.

Meanwhile, critics of the appointment of the new IRS commissioner pointed out flaws in the nominee. Billy Long’s private-sector experience, particularly his work with the Employee Retention Tax Credit, highlights his understanding of taxpayer needs. However, his association with a program riddled with fraudulent claims has drawn criticism. Democrats worry his leadership could weaken enforcement against tax evasion, reducing revenue and widening the deficit.

Trump’s decision to appoint Long as IRS commissioner reflects broader efforts to reshape federal agencies in his second term. Alongside budget cuts and administrative changes, this move raises concerns about the IRS’s independence. Critics warn that politicizing the tax agency could erode public trust, while supporters argue that Long’s taxpayer-first approach is overdue.

Will Billy Long’s appointment improve the IRS’s operations?

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