President Donald Trump has moved swiftly to replace Billy Long, the newly confirmed commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service, only two months after his Senate confirmation.
Long, a former Missouri House lawmaker, was confirmed in June by a narrow 53-44 vote, largely along party lines.
Democrats opposed his nomination due to his lack of experience in tax policy and concerns over his promotion of controversial pandemic-era tax credits, which critics said invited fraudulent claims.
According to reports, Long is set to be nominated for an ambassadorship following his departure.
Until a permanent replacement is confirmed, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will serve as acting IRS commissioner.
Bessent, a close ally of Trump, is known for his loyalty and influence within the administration, as the Daily Mail reported.
His appointment signals a firm consolidation of control over the IRS, an agency that has seen significant turmoil under the current administration.
Long’s tenure as IRS chief was marked by tensions and conflict.
Reports suggest frequent clashes between Long and Bessent, with Long claiming he was required to seek approval from Bessent on nearly every decision. The move to replace Long appears to be a culmination of these internal power struggles.
Since the start