A Victory for Whistleblowers: Gary Shapley and Joe Ziegler Promoted to Leadership Roles in the Treasury Department
In a significant turn of events, IRS whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joe Ziegler, who played a pivotal role in uncovering political interference in the criminal investigation of Hunter Biden, have been promoted to leadership positions within the Treasury Department. Their elevation to senior advisers to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent marks a triumphant moment for the two veteran investigators, who endured two years of retaliation and professional ostracism after blowing the whistle on the handling of the high-profile case. This promotion not only vindicates their courage but also positions them to drive much-needed reforms within the IRS.
Shapley and Ziegler will begin their new roles this week, focusing on guiding tax agency reforms for a year before transitioning into senior IRS leadership positions to implement these changes. Their expertise and commitment to integrity are expected to benefit the American people by creating a more efficient and transparent IRS. Ziegler, the lead investigator on the Hunter Biden case, remarked, “This is a win for every whistleblower out there. We will continue to promote the truth, support whistleblowers, and root out those who undermine democracy.” Shapley echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are in a great position to assist the administration in achieving its goals. The real winners here are the American people.”
The Fight Against Political Interference and the Road to vindication
The story of Shapley and Ziegler’s bravery began during their investigation into Hunter Biden’s tax crimes. In December 2022, they were abruptly removed from the case after alerting their IRS superiors to what they believed was obstruction by the Department of Justice and then-Delaware U.S. Attorney David Weiss. The whistleblowers alleged that officials were slow-walking the investigation, blocking crucial search warrants, and tipping off Hunter Biden’s legal team about impending searches. Additionally, they claimed that the statute of limitations was allowed to lapse on the most serious charges, effectively undermining their work.
Despite their removal, Shapley and Ziegler persisted in their fight for accountability. They filed a formal complaint with the Merit Systems Protection Board, naming six IRS executives they accused of retaliating against them. Their efforts gained traction last month when the Office of Special Counsel, a federal whistleblower protection agency, concluded that the IRS had indeed retaliated against the two men. This ruling was a critical step toward clearing their names and restoring their careers.
Their promotion to leadership roles is seen as a direct result of their unwavering commitment to justice and transparency. Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa, a strong advocate for whistleblower protections, played a significant role in championing their cause. He had urged Secretary Bessent in a private letter to appoint Shapley and Ziegler to leadership positions, emphasizing their bravery and integrity. “Pointing out wrongdoing is an honorable thing to do,” Grassley said, noting that their elevation sends a clear message about the importance of accountability.
The Legacy of Retaliation and the Fight for Justice
The journey of Shapley and Ziegler has not been without its challenges. Following their removal from the Hunter Biden case, their professional lives became increasingly difficult. They were isolated, frozen out of career advancement opportunities, and subjected to relentless scrutiny. Their lawyers, Tristan Leavitt and Jason Foster of Empower Oversight, described their work environment as “hell,” highlighting the personal and professional toll of their ordeal.
Despite these obstacles, Shapley and Ziegler remained steadfast in their dedication to truth and justice. Their lawyers praised their resolve, stating, “Gary and Joe have never been motivated by accolades, just an underlying desire to do what was right.” The support of Secretary Bessent and Senator Grassley has been instrumental in turning the tide in their favor. Foster commended Bessent for his “willingness to step up and bring these courageous whistleblowers into leadership positions,” adding that their expertise will be invaluable in addressing deeply ingrained issues within the IRS.
The Broader Implications of Their Leadership
The promotion of Shapley and Ziegler is not just a personal victory; it carries significant implications for the future of the IRS and the broader fight against corruption. As senior advisers to Secretary Bessent, they will focus on driving cultural reforms within the agency, with an emphasis on collections, modernization, and customer service. Their leadership is expected to pave the way for a more efficient and effective IRS, one that better serves the interests of hardworking American taxpayers.
Secretary Bessent highlighted the importance of their roles, stating, “These veteran civil servants will help further the agency’s focus on transparency, accountability, and rooting out the culture of retaliation.” Their elevation is a testament to the power of integrity and the enduring impact of whistleblowers who risk everything to expose wrongdoing.
The Ongoing Battle for Accountability
While Shapley and Ziegler’s promotion is a significant step forward, the battle for accountability is far from over. Their case has shed light on the challenges faced by whistleblowers in the federal government, particularly when they uncover political interference or corruption at high levels. The retaliation they faced, including their removal from the Hunter Biden case and the subsequent attempts to sideline their careers, underscores the systemic issues that persist within federal agencies.
Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of robust whistleblower protections and the need for greater transparency within government institutions. Senator Grassley and other lawmakers have been vocal in their support for stronger safeguards to protect whistleblowers and prevent retaliation. Their efforts, combined with the courage of individuals like Shapley and Ziegler, are essential to fostering a culture of integrity and accountability within the federal government.
Conclusion: A New Era of Transparency and Reform
The promotion of Gary Shapley and Joe Ziegler to leadership positions within the Treasury Department marks the beginning of a new era of reform and transparency within the IRS. Their journey from whistleblowers to leaders is a powerful testament to the impact of courage and determination in the face of adversity. As they embark on their new roles, they carry with them the trust and admiration of their colleagues, lawmakers, and the American people.
Their story is not just one of personal triumph but also a beacon of hope for whistleblowers everywhere. It reminds us that speaking truth to power, even in the face of overwhelming odds, can lead to meaningful change. As Shapley and Ziegler work to reform the IRS, their legacy will continue to inspire others to stand up for what is right, no matter the cost. The American people are the ultimate beneficiaries of their courage, and their work will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the integrity of the federal government.
