Senate Republicans confirm Trump’s IRS pick who once sought to dismantle agency

Senate Republicans have once again pushed through another of President Donald Trump’s nominees, this time approving the president’s choice to lead the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Former House Rep. Billy Long was confirmed as the next IRS commissioner in a party-line vote of 53 to 44 in the GOP-controlled Senate. Long’s appointment makes him the fifth commissioner to helm the tax agency this year.

Replacing the current acting commissioner, Michael Faulkender, who also serves as the deputy Treasury Secretary, Long will take the reins of an agency that has faced significant workforce reductions under the Department of Government Efficiency initiative. Interestingly, Long, a former lawmaker and auctioneer, once advocated for the dismantling of the IRS but will now be tasked with leading it.

During his confirmation hearing last month, Long faced tough questioning from Senate Democrats on the Finance Committee. Lawmakers raised concerns about his past support for legislation that aimed to abolish the IRS and replace income taxes with a national sales tax. Additionally, his advocacy for tax credits, such as the Employee Retention Tax Credit and “tribal tax credits,” raised questions about potential conflicts of interest in his new role.

Despite these concerns, Long expressed his commitment to making significant changes to an agency he believes is in dire need of transformation. President Trump, who has also proposed abolishing the IRS in favor of tariffs and other measures, is likely to find a key ally in Long as he pushes forward with his vision for tax reform.

As the newly appointed IRS commissioner, Long will have the opportunity to implement substantial changes within the agency. His confirmation reflects the ongoing efforts of the Trump administration to reshape the federal government and its operations.

The confirmation of Long as the IRS commissioner highlights the ongoing political dynamics within the federal government and the administration’s push for significant reforms. With Long at the helm of the IRS, the agency is likely to experience a period of transformation under the Trump administration’s tax agenda.

This article was written by Alex Miller for Fox News Digital, covering developments in the U.S. Senate.