NW Kentucky News

House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer, Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan, and Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith are seeking answers from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding alleged retaliation against whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler. The two IRS agents had previously exposed claims of misconduct in the investigation of Hunter Biden.

The chairmen have addressed a letter to Acting Principal Deputy Special Counsel Karen Gorman, urging the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) to update them on its investigation into these allegations. They also requested an immediate stay at the U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board to halt any adverse actions by the IRS against the whistleblowers.

“SSA Shapley’s and SA Ziegler’s whistleblowing took courage and bravery. Because of their important disclosures, Americans learned how the IRS treats individuals differently based upon their last names,” wrote the chairmen. They emphasized that despite facing personal and professional attacks, Shapley and Ziegler remained steadfast.

Earlier this week, it was revealed by Gary Shapley’s attorney that shortly after an interview with investigative journalists discussing evidence of unfair treatment by the IRS, Shapley received a 15-day notice for demotion or resignation. This follows assurances from IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel to Congress that no retaliation would occur against whistleblowers.

On July 5, 2023, several committees requested an OSC investigation into these retaliatory actions by the IRS. On June 17, 2024, they further expressed concerns over the Department of Justice's handling of these cases.

“OSC has the express authority to seek a stay at the Board under 5 U.S.C. § 1214(b)(1)(A)(i),” stated the chairmen in their letter. They argued that given recent events concerning SSA Shapley, an immediate stay is necessary while requesting a comprehensive briefing due to prolonged delays in findings from OSC.