

Billy Long
Person PoliticianBilly Long, former Missouri Rep, Trump nominee for Iceland ambassador, apologized for a '52nd state' joke.
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Billy Long is a former Republican Congressman who represented Missouri from 2011 to 2023. He also briefly served as IRS commissioner in 2023. Long is currently newsworthy due to his nomination by former President Donald Trump to be the United States Ambassador to Iceland. Recent reports indicate that Long made a private joke to House lawmakers suggesting that Iceland should become the 52nd US state, with him serving as its governor. This joke has sparked anger and controversy in Iceland, with thousands signing a petition expressing their disapproval. Long has since apologized for the remark. The incident is significant as it potentially strains diplomatic relations between the US and Iceland and raises questions about Long's suitability for the ambassadorial role.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
