By Order of the IRS: Long's Shadow and the Taxman's Blues

A New Face at the Table: The Missouri Gambler

Right so they've gone and put Billy Long in charge of the IRS. A former Congressman handpicked by Trump himself. Seems the Yanks are as keen on power plays as we are here in Small Heath. They say he's got mixed support a bit like Polly’s faith in my schemes. But in this game it’s the party line that matters eh? And the Republicans got their way with a party line vote. Let's see if this Long fellow's got the stomach for the dirty work.

Trump's Shadow: Loyalty and Dubious Deals

The Democrats are sniffing around asking about Trump's influence and dodgy tax credits. Long swore the IRS wouldn't be politicized under his watch. Famous last words eh? Everyone's got a leash and Trump's got a whole damn kennel of 'em. He claims he'll 'follow the law.' We'll see if that holds up when the big man comes calling. As my Aunt Pol used to say 'There's God and there are the Peaky Blinders.' I reckon Trump thinks he's both.

The Razor's Edge: Cuts and Consequences

Elon Musk's lot is slashing the IRS budget. Hiring freezes early retirements the whole shebang. Even Arthur knows that equals trouble. The Treasury Inspector General says it'll have 'significant impacts.' No bloody surprise there. Seems they've lost a third of their audit blokes too. Means less eyes on the books right? More room for a fella to maneuver. But remember 'Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.' Unless of course they owe taxes.

The Tax Gap: A Black Hole or Opportunity?

There's a 'tax gap' of nearly $700 billion. Blimey even I could do some damage with that kind of wedge. Long wants to 'modernize and streamline' the IRS to squeeze every last penny out. Meanwhile Trump wants to slash the budget even further. Seems they're trying to squeeze blood from a stone. Maybe they should try asking nicely. Or perhaps a subtle bit of...persuasion.

The IT Gamble: AI to the Rescue?

They're talking about 'smarter IT' and the 'AI boom' to meet revenue goals. Fancy. Scott Bessent the Treasury Secretary seems to think computers will solve all their problems. Well they might find a few loopholes but they can't replace a good old fashioned shakedown eh? 'Intelligence is a very valuable thing innit my friend? And usually it comes far too f***ing late.'

A Storm is Coming: Tax Changes and Red Tape

Republicans are pushing through 'Trump's big beautiful spending bill' which will change the tax rules. One provision requires pre certifying kids for tax credits. More paperwork fewer staff. Sounds like a recipe for chaos. They're going to have more administrative work than Ada at a Communist rally. But I say 'When you plan something well there's no need to rush.' But hurry up about it.