WASHINGTON, D.C. – Former Missouri congressman Billy Long faced a Senate hearing today for his nomination as IRS commissioner by President Trump. The hearing was marked by both support and controversy.
Senator Ron Wyden from Oregon raised serious allegations against Long, accusing him of tax fraud. Wyden emphasized, “The American people have the right to know whether their future IRS commissioner is somebody who’s been a crook.”
Wyden detailed Long’s financial connections to White River Energy, a firm allegedly involved in fraudulent tax shelters. “Congressman Long’s financial disclosure shows $65,000 in income paid by a firm called White River Energy,” Wyden said.
“The thing is, no such tax credit exists. It was a fraud.” The controversy deepened with claims of campaign donations. Wyden stated, “Over $165,000 in donations were made by White River to Congressman Long’s Senate campaign. Out of that total, $130,000 went directly into the congressman’s pockets.”
The senator also accused Long of exploiting pandemic-era tax credits. Wyden alleged, “He spoke publicly in recorded interviews about pushing small business clients to file RTC claims that their CPAs told them they did not qualify for.”
Despite these allegations, Long received support at the hearing. Senator Mike Crapo from Idaho praised Long’s qualifications. Crapo stated, “President Trump called Congressman Long the consummate people person. Congressman Long is very clear that he will make himself available to all IRS employees.”
Crapo further emphasized Long’s readiness for the role, saying, “Congressman Long knows from years of experience in the House that to be a successful commissioner, he must be a valuable partner in Congress’s efforts.”
The Senate hearing concluded with the confirmation vote for Billy Long as IRS commissioner yet to be scheduled. Long’s nomination is currently backed by both Senator Crapo and President Trump.
