IRS Watchdog Nominee Vows to Probe Allegations of IRS Misconduct

David Johnson, the Biden administration’s nominee for Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), vowed Thursday to rigorously investigate allegations of IRS misconduct, including politically motivated audits and unfair targeting of small businesses with tax audits. During a Nov. 14 confirmation hearing before the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, Johnson fielded questions from Democratic and Republican senators on safeguarding taxpayers from IRS abuse and overreach. Finance Committee Chairman Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) asked Johnson how he would prevent politically driven misuse of IRS authority. “If you’re confirmed as Inspector General, what actions will you lead at TIGTA to ensure that Americans are not being targeted for audit or investigation based on their political affiliation?” Wyden asked....