East Idaho Times

Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered remarks at a hearing to consider the nominations of James Ives for Inspector General of the U.S. Department of the Treasury and Rose Jenkins, Adam Landy, and Kashi Way for Judges on the U.S. Tax Court.

"Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and welcome to our four nominees: Mr. Ives, Ms. Jenkins, Mr. Landy and Mr. Way," said Crapo in his prepared statement.

Crapo extended congratulations to the nominees and expressed gratitude for their willingness to serve.

The hearing first addressed James Ives' nomination as Inspector General of the Treasury Department. Crapo highlighted the responsibilities associated with this position: "This position is responsible for keeping both the Treasury Secretary and Congress fully and currently informed about the problems and deficiencies relating to the administration of Treasury Department programs and operations, including the necessity for corrective action."

Addressing Ives directly, Crapo noted his extensive experience within the Inspector General community: "Mr. Ives, given your depth of experience in the Inspector General community, you are undoubtedly aware of the importance of oversight and accountability within the Executive Branch."

Crapo emphasized that if confirmed, Ives would be tasked with investigating criminal activity and employee misconduct at Treasury’s Bureaus; combating waste, fraud, and abuse; and detecting fraud tied to pandemic-related legislation among other duties.

The hearing then turned to nominees Rose Jenkins, Adam Landy, and Kashi Way for positions on the United States Tax Court. Crapo underscored that "the Tax Court is committed to providing taxpayers...with a reasonable opportunity to challenge the IRS."

He elaborated on the court's role in ensuring fair hearings for taxpayers who disagree with IRS decisions: "If taxpayers have a disagreement with the IRS, the Tax Court serves as a venue to get a fair, impartial and efficient hearing."

Crapo also stressed that it is crucial for judges on this court to handle complex tax issues skillfully: "It is the Finance Committee’s responsibility to ensure that judges nominated to serve on the Tax Court are prepared to tackle these complex issues."

In conclusion, Crapo acknowledged each nominee's dedication: "I thank each of the nominees for their dedication to our country, and I look forward to hearing your testimony."

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