Trump Ousts Acting IRS Commissioner Gary Shapley, Appoints Michael Faulkender Amid Internal Disputes
President Donald Trump has removed Gary Shapley as acting IRS commissioner just days after his appointment due to conflicts with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
Overview
In a swift change of leadership, President Trump replaced acting IRS commissioner Gary Shapley with Deputy Treasury Secretary Michael Faulkender just days after Shapley's appointment. This decision follows concerns raised by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent over Shapley’s unexpected installation, supposedly influenced by advisor Elon Musk. Shapley, known for his whistleblower testimony on Hunter Biden’s tax investigations, will remain an advisor in the Treasury. Amid leadership instability, including a halt on planned layoffs, Trump’s nominee for a permanent IRS commissioner awaits Senate confirmation.
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Epoch Times·2M·FAQ
Elon Musk reportedly pushed for Gary Shapley's installation as acting IRS commissioner, bypassing Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's knowledge[1][2]. Bessent later fired a Musk-affiliated staffer involved in IRS staffing decisions.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent objected to Shapley's appointment due to lack of consultation, sparking tensions between Bessent and Musk-aligned figures. Bessent sought leadership he trusted amid planned IRS layoffs[2][5].
Former Rep. Billy Long (R-Mo.), Trump's nominee, awaits Senate confirmation amid controversies over his private-sector tax credit promotions and campaign finance practices[1][2].
Shapley continues as a senior Treasury advisor, with Bessent pledging to place him in a policy role after he completes the Hunter Biden investigation[2][5].
The IRS has had five acting commissioners since January 2025, complicating workforce reductions and policy implementation, including controversial data-sharing agreements with immigration authorities[1][2][4].
History
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