Former IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel Pulls Back the Curtain on the IRS on The Good Government Show
What really happens inside the Internal Revenue Service? And why does it matter to every American taxpayer?
Former IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel joins The Good Government Show for a revealing and timely conversation that takes listeners inside one of the most misunderstood agencies in government. From a surprise call to the White House that led to his appointment to running a 100,000-person agency, Werfel offers a rare insider’s perspective on the IRS, taxes, and the role government plays in everyday life.
Werfel explains that the IRS is built around two core missions — helping taxpayers meet their obligations and enforcing tax laws fairly. The goal, he says, is simple: make sure Americans pay what they owe, and not a penny more. But he also delivers a clear message: a weaker IRS does not mean lower taxes. Only Congress can change tax rates. A less capable IRS, he argues, simply shifts the burden onto taxpayers who play by the rules.
During the wide-ranging conversation with host Dave Martin, Werfel discusses the challenges of running one of the largest and least popular federal agencies, why a fully functioning IRS actually benefits taxpayers, and how government services quietly shape everyday life — from safe food and clean water to reliable infrastructure and emergency response. He also shares insights from more than 30 years in public service and explains why he believes that “90 percent of government is something we all actually agree on.”
Werfel also describes the IRS modernization efforts he led, including the development of a free online tax filing system and major improvements in taxpayer services. His leadership focused on rebuilding customer service, modernizing technology, and ensuring that tax laws are enforced fairly across all income levels.
“This is one of the most important conversations we’ve had about how government actually works,” said host Dave Martin. “Danny Werfel shows that the IRS isn’t about taking your money — it’s about making the system work fairly for everyone.”
Werfel’s appearance continues The Good Government Show’s mission of highlighting the people and ideas that make government work. The award-winning podcast features leaders from across the country who are solving real problems and improving the lives of their communities.
The episode featuring former IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel is available now at GoodGovernmentShow.com and on all major podcast platforms.