Longtime Tax Watchdog J. Russell George Dies After Illness

J. Russell George, who served as a key IRS watchdog for nearly two decades, most notably during the 2013 controversy over groups’ applications for tax-exempt status—died earlier this week after a lengthy illness.

George had served as the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration since 2004, after being nominated by then-President George W. Bush and confirmed by the Senate. His death was announced Wednesday by Acting Inspector General Heather Hill.

In his role as inspector general, George led an office tasked with conducting oversight of the IRS. It also investigates allegations of misconduct by IRS employees and threats against the ...