In a move that has raised eyebrows on both sides of the aisle, President Donald Trump has nominated Missouri Congressman Billy Long to be the next IRS Commissioner. Long, a Republican known for his outspoken conservatism, has been a vocal critic of the IRS in the past. His nomination is likely to face a heated confirmation battle in the Senate.
Long’s nomination has been met with mixed reactions. Some have praised his experience as a small business owner and his understanding of tax policy. Others have expressed concern about his past statements and his lack of experience in tax administration.
The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) praised Long’s nomination, saying that he “understands the challenges facing small businesses and is committed to making the tax code fairer and simpler.” The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), on the other hand, expressed concern about Long’s lack of experience in tax administration.
Long has been a vocal critic of the IRS in the past. In 2015, he co-sponsored a bill that would have abolished the IRS and replaced it with a new tax system. He has also called for the IRS to be audited.
These statements have raised concerns among some senators who will be responsible for confirming Long’s nomination. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), the ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee, said that he would “take a very close look” at Long’s past statements and his commitment to enforcing the tax code fairly.
Long’s nomination is likely to face a heated confirmation battle in the Senate. Democrats are expected to oppose his nomination, citing his past statements about the IRS and his lack of experience in tax administration. Some Republicans may also oppose his nomination, as he has been a vocal critic of President Trump’s tax policies.
If Long is confirmed, he will be the first IRS Commissioner to be appointed by a Republican president since 1989.
The nomination of Billy Long to be IRS Commissioner is a controversial one that is likely to face a heated confirmation battle in the Senate. Long’s past statements about the IRS and his lack of experience in tax administration have raised concerns among some senators. It remains to be seen whether Long will be able to overcome these concerns and win confirmation.
