Former Missouri congressman Billy Long, a longtime critic of the IRS, has been confirmed by the Senate as the agency’s new commissioner. The confirmation comes at a pivotal moment for the IRS, which is grappling with sweeping staff reductions, unresolved privacy scandals, and potential overhauls tied to President Donald Trump’s legislative agenda.
Long confirmed in tight vote despite red flags
The Senate approved Long’s nomination in a 53-44 party-line vote on June 12. While Republicans rallied behind Trump’s pick, Democrats raised concerns over Long’s ties to fraudulent pandemic-era tax credits and his historical support for abolishing the IRS.
Before leaving Congress in 2023, Long co-sponsored legislation to dismantle the IRS in favor of a national sales tax. Critics argue that his appointment threatens the agency’s independence, but Long assured lawmakers during his confirmation hearing that he would “follow the law” and avoid politicization.
IRS faces historic downsizing
Long inherits an IRS in turmoil. Since early 2025, the agency has lost about 20,000 employees—roughly a quarter of its workforce—through a combination of layoffs and retirements. The cuts follow initiatives by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), raising concerns over taxpayer service and audit enforcement.
A Treasury watchdog report warned that reductions in experienced revenue agents could widen the tax gap—estimated at $696 billion in unpaid taxes for 2022.
Direct File and other programs under review
Long’s appointment also throws into question the future of the Direct File program, a free electronic filing system introduced under the Biden administration. Long signaled during hearings that the program would be “up for discussion,” echoing GOP criticism that it duplicates existing services.
Scrutiny over past dealings
After leaving office, Long worked with a firm promoting the now-discredited Employee Retention Tax Credit. That program was shut down after being deemed rife with fraud. Democrats are calling for further investigation into Long’s involvement, pointing to questionable contributions made to his defunct Senate campaign following Trump’s nomination.
What happens next?
As the IRS prepares for the 2026 tax season with diminished resources, Long faces pressure to modernize operations, secure taxpayer data, and implement reforms from Trump’s anticipated “Big Beautiful Bill.” Among proposed changes: stricter earned income credit rules and increased reliance on AI to close the tax gap.
Experts say Long’s leadership could redefine the IRS—or destabilize it further.
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