The recent tumultuous period at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) culminated in the remarkably short tenure of its commissioner, Billy Long. His appointment, initially seen as a strategic move by President Trump, quickly devolved into a power struggle with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Long's limited experience in tax policy, coupled with his desire for independent action, led to numerous public missteps and ultimately, his swift exit from the agency. This episode highlights the inherent complexities and political sensitivities surrounding the leadership of a crucial governmental body responsible for the nation's financial well-being.

Details of the Commissioner's Swift Exit from the IRS

In a dramatic turn of events, Billy Long's tenure as Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service concluded abruptly, mere weeks after his grand swearing-in ceremony. The former Republican congressman from Missouri, known for his unwavering loyalty to President Trump, had envisioned a significant political comeback with this prestigious appointment. On July 18, 2025, in the hallowed Oval Office, Mr. Long was ceremoniously installed, signaling a new era for the IRS under a politically aligned leader, rather than a conventional technocrat. This momentous occasion, attended by his family and former congressional aides, underscored his new authority over an agency vital for collecting approximately $5 trillion in tax revenue annually. However, this triumphant beginning quickly unraveled.

Just days following his inauguration, Mr. Long found himself embroiled in a dispute with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Mr. Bessent, a seasoned financier, had already overseen the departure of one White House-appointed IRS commissioner earlier that year, and he soon engineered another, contributing to a rapid succession of seven leaders for the agency since January. The core of Mr. Bessent's concerns stemmed from Mr. Long's attempts to unilaterally formulate plans for the IRS, bypassing the Treasury Department's oversight. During a private lunch, President Trump had suggested personnel changes to Mr. Long, including potential dismissals and promotions, which influenced Mr. Long's independent approach. However, the working relationship between Mr. Bessent, a multi-millionaire former hedge fund manager, and Mr. Long, an ex-auctioneer without a college degree, deteriorated rapidly. Mr. Long frequently expressed his frustration to colleagues, lamenting the constant need for Mr. Bessent's approval. Meanwhile, Treasury officials grew increasingly concerned about Mr. Long's grasp of the demanding and highly scrutinized role, especially after several public misstatements.

Over the ensuing weeks, discussions within the Trump administration about alternative roles for Mr. Long intensified. Eventually, Sergio Gor, the White House personnel director, informed Mr. Long of his impending reassignment. By August 9, Mr. Long confirmed his departure from the IRS and his nomination as the next ambassador to Iceland, marking the end of his less than two-month tenure. Mr. Bessent temporarily assumed leadership of the IRS, aiming to restore stability. White House spokesman Harrison Fields lauded Mr. Long as a \"steadfast ally,\" while a Treasury spokesperson acknowledged his \"enthusiasm and ability to connect with people,\" crediting him with boosting morale and initiating the modernization of the IRS's technical systems. This turbulent period, characterized by constant leadership changes and significant staff reductions, left the IRS grappling with instability and struggling to fulfill its critical mission, as noted by former IRS Commissioner John Koskinen.

Despite his limited background in tax policy, Mr. Long sought to compensate with charisma, traveling extensively to IRS offices and hosting "FriYay" early-morning office hours in Washington. His inaugural email to staff, shared with The New York Times, highlighted his 'Upbeat, Friendly and Open' philosophy. While his positive attitude was initially welcomed by IRS employees weary of constant upheaval and staff cuts, doubts lingered. Mr. Long's prior experience with tax credits, some of which were controversial, and his controversial decisions, like placing two senior IRS officials on leave, raised concerns. His public errors, such as prematurely announcing a delayed tax filing season and the termination of the Direct File program, further highlighted his lack of understanding of the agency's intricate operations. These remarks necessitated swift retractions from the agency, creating additional confusion and undermining confidence in his leadership. The National Treasury Employees Union President, Doreen Greenwald, expressed concerns about Mr. Long's lack of organizational understanding, even as employees remained committed to supporting the agency's success. This period also revealed a broader struggle for power, with various government departments seeking to leverage the IRS's extensive authority, including attempts to access taxpayer data and influence the agency's auditing powers for political ends.

Adding to the chaos, the Treasury Department was already dealing with interventions from powerful figures. In April, Mr. Bessent had to reclaim control of the agency from Elon Musk, who had installed a temporary commissioner without Treasury consultation, leading to a heated confrontation. Mr. Long, for his part, often expressed his desire to operate independently, even contemplating running the IRS from his hometown of Springfield, Missouri. Just before his resignation, a scheduled call with Representative Richard E. Neal, a key figure on the Ways and Means Committee, was abruptly rescheduled due to Mr. Long's unavailability. As the IRS grapples with implementing new tax legislation, including President Trump's promises regarding overtime and tip taxation, Mr. Long's absence leaves a void. Despite the rapid end to his commissionership, Mr. Long expressed excitement about his ambassadorial nomination to Iceland, consistent with his long-standing and fervent support for Mr. Trump. In a final message to IRS employees, Mr. Long reiterated his unwavering loyalty, echoing his political stance throughout his career.

The Imperative of Stability in Public Service Leadership

The swift and dramatic departure of Billy Long from the helm of the IRS serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of selecting qualified and experienced individuals for vital public service roles. While political appointments are a common feature of democratic governance, the narrative of Mr. Long's tenure underscores the potential pitfalls when personal loyalty trumps professional expertise and a nuanced understanding of an agency's mission. The IRS, as the nation's primary revenue collection body, demands stable, informed leadership to ensure its efficient operation and uphold public trust. The chaotic events surrounding Mr. Long's short time in office, marked by internal friction, public gaffes, and a perceived disregard for established protocols, likely inflicted significant damage on employee morale and the agency's overall functionality. This episode compels us to reflect on whether political allegiances should ever supersede the rigorous demands of governmental administration. Perhaps a re-evaluation of appointment criteria, prioritizing proven management skills and relevant sector experience, is necessary to safeguard the integrity and effectiveness of our most crucial public institutions. The stability of such agencies is not merely an administrative concern; it directly impacts the lives of millions and the financial health of the nation.