Trump replaces IRS commissioner Billy Long with Scott Bessent after 62 days

President Donald Trump has reportedly removed Billy Long from his position as IRS commissioner just 62 days after his Senate confirmation, with Scott Bessent now named as acting IRS commissioner. Long, a former U.S. Congressman from Missouri, was confirmed on June 12, 2025, by a 53–44 vote and sworn in on June 16. His tenure ended abruptly on August 8, 2025, with the White House offering no official explanation. Reports suggest Long is being considered for a diplomatic role, though no country or timeline has been disclosed [1].

Bessent, who currently serves as Treasury Secretary, has been appointed to lead the IRS on an acting basis while the administration searches for a permanent replacement. This marks the first time the roles of Treasury Secretary and IRS Commissioner have been held by the same individual. Bessent’s close relationship with the president and his background in global investment suggest a strategic intent to consolidate financial leadership under the Treasury Department [2].

This leadership reshuffling occurs amid broader tax reform efforts within the Trump administration. The move is seen as part of a pattern of executive appointments aimed at reinforcing control over key departments ahead of the second half of Trump’s term. Long’s sudden removal from a six-year position highlights an unusual level of volatility in IRS leadership. The administration appears to be prioritizing policy consistency by placing trusted figures in critical roles [3].

Long’s potential transition to a diplomatic post aligns with previous appointments of loyalists to ambassadorial positions. While no official nomination has been announced, Senate aides suggest the confirmation process could begin as early as fall 2025 [4].

With Bessent now overseeing the IRS, the agency may see immediate changes in digital infrastructure, audit practices, and taxpayer services. As Treasury Secretary, Bessent has previously emphasized modernization in financial systems. His dual role could accelerate reforms in tax administration, particularly in the context of the growing importance of digital assets [1].

The removal of Long and the appointment of Bessent mark a significant shift in the administration’s approach to fiscal governance. It underscores Trump’s strategy of centralizing control over financial institutions to advance key legislative and economic priorities. The consolidation of authority under Bessent’s leadership is expected to streamline decision-making and enhance coordination between the Treasury and the IRS [3].

These changes reflect the evolving priorities within the federal government and the administration’s focus on aligning leadership with its broader economic and political objectives. The speed and secrecy surrounding Long’s departure raise questions about the administration’s internal dynamics and its handling of executive appointments [2].

Sources:

[1] The, https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/aug/08/trump-irs-commissioner-iceland-ambassador

[2] PBS, https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/trump-removes-billy-long-as-irs-commisioner-less-than-2-months-after-senate-confirmation

[3] yahoo.com, https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/trump-ousts-billy-long-irs-193842907.html

[4] The, https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/us/another-surprise-trump-abruptly-fires-irs-commissioner-billy-long-installs-scott-bessent-as-acting-head-whats-fueling-this-explosive-leadership-shake-up/amp_articleshow/123196331.cms