Last week, former Congressman Billy Long (R-MO) appeared before the Senate Finance Committee for his confirmation hearing. He faced pointed questions from Senate Democrats regarding his prior advocacy for pandemic-era tax credits.
If confirmed, Long would become the first Trump-nominated commissioner officially confirmed to lead the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
A particularly tense moment came when Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) questioned Long on whether a president could revoke an organization’s tax-exempt status—a reference to former President Trump’s public criticism of Harvard University’s tax treatment. Long responded, “I’m going to follow the law,” adding that such a determination would require consultation with legal experts: “I’d have to go to the lawyer
During his testimony, Long emphasized his commitment to overhauling the agency, stating, "I believe I have the opportunity to make real, transformational change to an agency that needs it more than any other."
Committee Chairman Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID) voiced his support for Long's nomination, citing the nominee’s congressional experience as an asset in strengthening collaboration between the IRS and lawmakers.
"My conversations with Congressman Long assured me that, once confirmed, he will focus on improving taxpayer services, enforcing our tax laws with fairness for all, and ensuring resources are optimally allocated," Crapo said.
The Senate will vote on Long’s confirmation in the coming weeks.
This article was provided to OSAP by ASAE's Power of Associations and Inroads.