Trump nominates former Missouri congressman to serve as IRS commissioner

By Tom Joyce
The Center Square

President-elect Donald Trump will nominate former U.S. Rep. Billy Long, a Missouri Republican, as the commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service.

Trump announced the news in a Truth Social post.

"Billy brings 32 years of experience running his own businesses in Real Estate and, as one of the premier Auctioneers in the Country," Trump posted on Truth Social. "He then served 12 years in Congress, because he "felt it was important for his constituents to have a Representative who has signed the front of a check!"

The IRS Commissioner position requires a U.S. Senate confirmation. Long would replace Danny Werfel, the current commissioner. Werfel's term runs through late 2027, and he has said he intends to stay in the position. However, if the Senate votes to confirm Long, he could replace the current commissioner, according to The Hill.

Long represented Missouri's Seventh District from 2011 to 2023.

Trump said that Long's background in and out of politics makes him a fit for the position. 

"Since leaving Congress, Billy has worked as a Business and Tax advisor, helping Small Businesses navigate the complexities of complying with the IRS Rules and Regulations," Trump posted on Truth Social. "I have known Billy since 2011 - He is an extremely hard worker, and respected by all, especially by those who know him in Congress. Taxpayers and the wonderful employees of the IRS will love having Billy at the helm. He is the consummate 'people person,' well respected on both sides of the aisle."

Long is a staunch supporter of Trump. He opposed certifying the 2020 presidential election results when President Joe Biden defeated Trump.