• Gary Shapley has been ousted as acting IRS commissioner just days after his swearing-in.
• The decision arises from a power struggle involving Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Elon Musk.
• Deputy Treasury Secretary Michael Faulkender is set to replace Shapley.
• Shapley had previously testified regarding perceived bias in the Hunter Biden tax investigation.
• This leadership change reflects ongoing tumult within the IRS under the Trump administration.

Gary Shapley, appointed as acting commissioner of the IRS just two days prior, has been removed from his position following complaints from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent regarding his installation. Bessent expressed to President Trump that Shapley was appointed without his prior approval, allegedly at the behest of billionaire Elon Musk, known for his influence in the administration, according to Forbes.

Shapley's removal underscores a significant internal conflict within the Trump administration, particularly between Bessent and Musk, as the new administration grapples with leadership turbulence. "Trust must be brought back to the IRS," Bessent remarked as Deputy Secretary Michael Faulkender was announced as Shapley's successor, as reported by ABC News.

Shapley, who became a prominent figure after alleging improper influence over the Hunter Biden tax investigation, was initially expected to serve in his role until the Senate confirmed Trump's permanent nominee, former Congressman Billy Long. His brief tenure was marked by internal dissent, with Bessent and Faulkender opposing Shapley's appointment since it stemmed from Musk's push, as indicated in reports from Los Angeles Times.

The broader implications of Musk's intervention have raised concerns among some administration officials regarding his influence, particularly as the IRS has faced a series of leadership changes due to resignations and political pressures. As noted by The New York Times, this incident reflects ongoing instability within the agency and the administration's effort to recalibrate its governmental operations.