U.S. media: The acting director of the IRS is embroiled in Musk and US Treasury Secretary's dispute, "was forced to resign after 72 hours in office"

Source: Global Times

[Global Times Report, by Zhang Qian] American media such as The New York Times and The Daily Beast reported on the 18th, citing multiple informed sources, that US President Trump has replaced Gary Shapley, the acting director of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), who was recommended by Musk, the head of the government efficiency department. The Daily Beast reported that Shapley's term lasted only 72 hours, and he was forced to leave before he could even start working.

Picture source: US media

The New York Times reported that the appointment of Shapley triggered a power struggle between Treasury Secretary Besenett and Musk. Informed sources revealed that Besenett complained to Trump this week, stating that Musk bypassed him through the White House channel, making Shapley the acting director of the IRS without consulting or obtaining his consent. The IRS should report to the Treasury Secretary as the head. Ultimately, Besenett successfully persuaded Trump to withdraw this appointment decision.

It was reported that the US Treasury confirmed on the 18th that Deputy Minister Michael Folkenhead will replace Shapley and take over as the acting director of the IRS. Folkenhead is the third acting director of the IRS this week. Previously, under Musk's influence, former acting director Melanie Krauss chose to resign, and Trump appointed Shapley to manage the IRS on the 15th.

The report mentioned that Besenett issued a statement on the afternoon of the 18th, stating, "We must rebuild trust in the IRS. I fully believe that Deputy Minister Michael Folkenhead is the right person for the position." He also praised Shapley as "enthusiastic and thoughtful" and remains an important advisor.

The New York Times reported that the IRS spokesperson declined to comment on the leadership change.

The New York Times mentioned that Shapley is a senior investigator at the IRS. He gained fame in conservative circles for accusing the Department of Justice of obstructing the investigation into Hunter Biden's tax case against former President Joe Biden using delaying tactics.

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7494889142363423241/

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