Lois Gail Lerner, American lawyer, joined IRS Exempt Organizations Unit 2001. Promoted to Director of Exempt Organizations Unit. Lerner was a major focus of what became known as the IRS Targeting Controversy. Lerner herself first revealed the existence of the scandal via a planted question at an ABA meeting, ahead of the public release of audit findings. Conservative groups were inappropriately queried regarding donors and other aspects of their organizations, many waiting months or years while non-conservative but similar organizations were not equally queried or delayed. Placed on Administrative Leave May 23, 2013. Resigned Sept 23, 2013