In a major win for government accountability, the Trump administration has promoted IRS whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, the agents who exposed Hunter Biden’s tax evasion scheme despite facing political retaliation from their superiors. Their promotions come as part of a broader effort to protect whistleblowers and reform the IRS, ensuring that federal agencies operate with transparency and integrity.
Shapley, who was instrumental in leading the investigation, has been promoted to Deputy Chief of IRS Criminal Investigations, while Ziegler has been appointed Senior Advisor to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, where he will help spearhead critical IRS reform initiatives. These roles place them in positions of influence to drive meaningful change within the agency that previously sought to sideline them.
Treasury Secretary Bessent praised their efforts, stating, “Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler stood up for the truth at great personal risk. Their promotions reflect this administration’s commitment to protecting whistleblowers and restoring the public’s faith in our institutions.” He emphasized that their work would be essential in refocusing the IRS on fairness, modernization, and improved service to American taxpayers.
Both whistleblowers had previously testified before Congress, revealing how the Justice Department under the previous administration interfered in the Hunter Biden probe, allowing the president’s son to escape serious legal consequences. Following their testimony, they were met with retribution—including being removed from the case, targeted for professional smears, and demoted within their agency.
By elevating these whistleblowers to higher positions, the Trump administration is sending a strong message that those who expose corruption will not be silenced. This move also highlights the administration’s ongoing effort to drain the swamp, ensuring that political elites are held accountable just like any other American.
Shapley and Ziegler’s promotions mark a turning point for federal whistleblowers and reinforce the administration’s push to restore trust in America’s institutions by standing firmly against corruption at the highest levels.