SC Nebraska News

Congressman Adrian Smith of Nebraska has expressed his support for President Trump's decision to appoint former Congressman Billy Long as the new Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The announcement came after President Trump released a statement regarding his choice for the position.

Smith, who is a senior member of the Committee on Ways and Means, criticized the current IRS Commissioner Werfel's tenure. He stated, "Despite his claims otherwise during the confirmation process, Commissioner Werfel’s tenure at the IRS has largely focused on advancing the Biden-Harris agenda to intrude further into the financial privacy of American families and small businesses."

Smith emphasized the need for an IRS commissioner who will prioritize accountability within the agency. He outlined several areas that require attention, including outdated technology infrastructure and funding issues. "We need an IRS commissioner who will restore accountability to the agency and its employees, address outdated technology infrastructure, return to wholly appropriated funding, end the unlawful Direct File Program, and have a true focus on serving taxpayers well," he said.

Expressing his approval of Trump's selection, Smith added, "I applaud President Trump’s announcement of his plan to nominate my former colleague Billy Long to do the job and look forward to Senate consideration of his qualifications."

In January 2023, Smith introduced legislation aimed at repealing what he describes as an $80 billion expansion of the IRS under the Biden-Harris administration. The legislation also seeks to terminate what he calls an unauthorized Direct File program by the IRS.