Billionaire Timothy Mellon Revealed as $130 Million Donor too End Military Pay Freeze During US Goverment Shutdown
WASHINGTON – The identity of a private donor who provided $130 million to the US government to cover military salaries during the ongoing government shutdown has been revealed as billionaire Timothy Mellon, according to a report by The New York Times. The donation comes as the shutdown, stemming from a budget impasse between Democrats and republicans, enters its fourth week, leaving soldiers without regular pay.
Mellon, 83, a banking heir and longtime Republican supporter, reportedly made the donation to the Trump governance specifically to ensure US troops continued to receive their salaries and benefits. A Pentagon spokesperson confirmed the funds were designated for that purpose.
President Trump publicly acknowledged the donation on Thursday, referring to the benefactor as a “friend” and “patriot” who offered to “pay down any deficits that you have because of the Democrats’ budget impasse…because I love the military and I love the country.” Trump initially declined to name the donor, stating, “He doesn’t want any publicity…He prefers that his name not be mentioned.”
the New York Times report details Mellon’s significant financial backing of Trump’s political endeavors, citing a $50 million contribution last year to a “super PAC” supporting the former president’s election campaign.
The US government entered a shutdown on October 1st as Democrats and Republicans failed to reach a budget agreement. Democrats are seeking concessions from the Trump administration regarding healthcare subsidies,while the administration has sought to limit spending.
The shutdown has resulted in furloughs and unpaid leave for federal employees. Trump recently authorized a reallocation of funds, directing the Pentagon to utilize unused research funds to cover soldiers’ salaries.
