Billy Long, the former Missouri Congressman and nominee for the IRS under the Trump administration, has come under scrutiny for receiving substantial donations from corporations known for tax avoidance. A recent report revealed that Long accepted $248,500 from 17 companies that have an average effective tax rate of negative 0.4% on a staggering $289 billion in profits since the implementation of the 2017 Trump tax cuts. This raises questions about his commitment to tax fairness and accountability in his potential role at the IRS.
Long's background includes a high school diploma and experience as a tax adviser, particularly focusing on the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC), a program that has been linked to instances of fraud. Critics, including Tony Carrk, Executive Director of Accountable.US, have condemned Long for supporting tax-dodging corporations while simultaneously harming working-class individuals. This situation highlights ongoing concerns about the influence of corporate money in politics and the implications for tax policy enforcement.
The scrutiny surrounding Long's nomination reflects a broader debate about the integrity of tax policy and the need for reforms to ensure that corporations contribute their fair share. As the IRS faces challenges in addressing tax avoidance, the appointment of individuals with ties to such practices could undermine efforts to promote tax equity and accountability. With the 2024 elections approaching, Long's connections to these corporations may become a focal point in discussions about tax reform and corporate responsibility in the United States.