In a surprising turn of events within the U.S. government, President Donald Trump has initiated a significant leadership change at the nation's tax collection agency. This development sees the swift departure of the incumbent Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner, Billy Long, who had only recently assumed the role. Stepping into the interim leadership position will be Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, indicating a potentially new direction for the country's tax administration. This unexpected reshuffle is likely to spark considerable discussion regarding the stability and future policies of the IRS.
President Trump Replaces IRS Commissioner Billy Long with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent
In Washington, D.C., on an eventful Friday, August 8, 2025, President Donald Trump executed a pivotal personnel change within the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. Billy Long, who had been serving as the IRS Commissioner for merely two months since his June swearing-in, was formally removed from his position. This decision, as confirmed by various reputable news outlets including Reuters and The New York Times, was swiftly followed by the announcement that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent would assume the role of acting IRS Commissioner.
Long's brief tenure marked him as the 51st individual to hold the top position at the IRS. Prior to his commission, he represented Missouri in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011 to 2023. Reports from The New York Times suggest that Long is now anticipated to be appointed to an ambassadorial post, marking a new chapter in his public service career.
It is noteworthy that Long's initial nomination faced considerable resistance from Senate Democrats, who voiced concerns over his perceived lack of relevant experience for leading such a critical agency. During his time in Congress, he had notably co-sponsored legislation aimed at dismantling the IRS and replacing the current income tax system with a sales tax. Despite these objections, Long's confirmation proceeded with a 53-44 vote in the Senate, underscoring the political divisions surrounding his appointment.
This abrupt leadership transition at the IRS under President Trump's administration highlights the dynamic nature of political appointments and the potential for rapid shifts in policy direction. The appointment of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as interim commissioner signals a move to bring a trusted and experienced figure into the leadership of the nation's tax collection system, at a time when the agency's operational stability and future trajectory remain subjects of intense public and political scrutiny.
From a journalist's perspective, this sudden change in leadership at the Internal Revenue Service is more than just a bureaucratic reshuffle; it’s a powerful demonstration of presidential authority and a potential harbinger of significant shifts in fiscal policy. The appointment of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, a familiar face, as acting commissioner, could signal a move towards greater alignment between the Treasury Department's broader economic strategies and the IRS's operational mandates. However, it also raises questions about the long-term stability and independence of a crucial governmental body responsible for the nation's financial health. The public and financial markets will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how this leadership transition impacts tax policy, enforcement, and the overall economic landscape.