IRS Nominee Questioned on Taxpayer Data Security and Trump Tax Return Leaks

Taxpayer Data Security Concerns

• 📌 Senator Luján expressed concern over constituents' private data being at risk, particularly regarding the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) seeking access to sensitive IRS data systems.
• ⚠️ The nominee, Mr. Long, stated that taxpayer data must be protected "at all costs" and that no one's data should be released to those who don't need it for legitimate purposes.
• 🔒 Historically, political officials, including the IRS Commissioner, did not have access to the integrated data retrieval system, a change made after Watergate.

Release of Tax Information and Penalties

• ⚖️ Senator Luján questioned whether individuals releasing personal tax information should face prison time, drawing a parallel to the 5-year sentence for those who released Donald Trump's tax returns.
• ❓ Mr. Long, unfamiliar with the specific case of Trump's tax returns being released, stated that he would follow the law, emphasizing that "if it's illegal, it's illegal."
• 🧐 When pressed about whether DOGE releasing tax information to constituents should result in prison if illegal, Mr. Long reiterated that if it's illegal, it's illegal.

Direct File Program and IRS Operations

• 🆓 Senator Luján inquired about support for the "direct file" program, allowing Americans to file taxes for free.
• 📈 Mr. Long indicated this is a topic discussed at length and one he wants to examine, noting that many people file for free now and that Americans should be able to file for free if they are capable of doing their own taxes.
• 📞 Concerns were raised about staffing at the IRS, with accusations that a 40% reduction in force, potentially influenced by Elon Musk and President Trump, is why phones are not being answered.