The article centers around the rapid turnover of leadership at the IRS. Gary Shapley, initially appointed by President Trump with support from Elon Musk, was quickly replaced by Michael Faulkender, the Deputy Secretary of the Treasury. This followed significant opposition to Shapley's appointment from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
Shapley's appointment, while backed by Musk and congressional Republicans, faced resistance from Bessent's office. His role in the Hunter Biden investigation and subsequent whistleblower testimony to Congress regarding alleged partisan bias further fueled the controversy. The situation led to a tense week at the IRS, marked by uncertainty among career civil servants.
Faulkender's appointment highlights a push for stability and reassurance within the IRS. Bessent expressed confidence in Faulkender's ability to restore trust in the agency. Shapley, despite his removal as acting commissioner, retains a role as a senior advisor at the Treasury Department, pending a review of alleged political interference in the Hunter Biden tax investigation.
Faulkender, in his written responses to Senate questions, emphasized his commitment to fair and impartial enforcement of tax laws, addressing concerns about potential political pressure. He also pledged to protect taxpayer privacy and comply with all relevant legal protections.
This leadership change marks the fifth person to head the IRS in the current year. The article notes that Trump's nominee for a permanent commissioner, Billy Long, awaits Senate confirmation.