President Donald Trump has removed Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Billy Long from his post, ending the former Missouri congressman’s tenure just two months after he was officially confirmed for the role.
A White House official confirmed the decision to USA TODAY, stating that Long will step down immediately and that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will assume the duties of acting commissioner until a permanent replacement is nominated and confirmed.
While the dismissal may appear abrupt, the official indicated it was part of a broader personnel strategy. Long is expected to be nominated as the next U.S. ambassador to Iceland, a move the administration describes as a “strategic diplomatic placement.”
In a statement posted to X (formerly Twitter), Long expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and enthusiasm for his upcoming diplomatic assignment.
“I am thrilled to answer his call to service and deeply committed to advancing his bold agenda. Exciting times ahead!” he wrote.
Long, a vocal Trump ally during his time in Congress, was initially nominated in December via a Truth Social post in which Trump praised his work ethic and popularity within the Republican ranks.
Long’s appointment followed the early resignation of former IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, who stepped down in January, three years before his term was set to expire.
The White House has not yet provided a timeline for the selection of a new permanent IRS commissioner.