The U.S. Senate Committee on Finance convened on September 10, 2025, to consider the nominations of Jonathan Greenstein for Deputy Under Secretary of the Treasury and Donald Korb for Chief Counsel of the IRS and Assistant General Counsel of the Treasury. The meeting focused on the qualifications and perspectives of both nominees, with particular attention given to Korb's past comments and his approach to taxpayer rights.
The session began with an overview of the nominees' backgrounds and their commitment to serving the American public. Korb emphasized the importance of taxpayer privacy and the need for fairness and respect in the IRS's dealings with citizens. He reiterated his dedication to providing quality service and enforcing tax laws with integrity.
However, the discussion took a contentious turn when Senator Ron Wyden questioned Korb about a troubling comment he made regarding individuals he disagrees with. Wyden expressed concern over Korb's judgment, particularly in light of his extensive experience in the legal field. Korb appeared to struggle with the question, indicating difficulty in understanding the senator's concerns.
Throughout the meeting, the committee members engaged in a thorough examination of the nominees' qualifications and their visions for the roles they are being considered for. The dialogue highlighted the critical balance between enforcing tax laws and protecting taxpayer rights, a theme that resonated throughout the discussions.
As the meeting concluded, the committee members were left to weigh the implications of Korb's past remarks against his professional experience and stated commitments to uphold the principles of fairness and respect in tax administration. The next steps in the nomination process will involve further deliberation and potential votes on the nominees.