Trump removes Billy Long as IRS commissioner, giving him the shortest-ever tenure in the role
August 8, 2025
President Donald Trump has removed former U.S. Rep. Billy Long as IRS commissioner less than two months after his confirmation. It wasn’t immediately clear why Long was dismissed. His quick exit makes him the shortest-tenured IRS commissioner confirmed by the Senate since the position was created in 1862. Long announced on social media that Trump nominated him for an ambassadorship to Iceland. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will serve as acting IRS commissioner. Long’s departure adds to the turmoil at the IRS, which has faced significant turnover and staff reductions. Long, a former auctioneer, had no background in tax administration and previously sponsored legislation to eliminate the IRS.