A reclusive billionaire heir has been identified as the anonymous donor who contributed $130 million to help ensure U.S. troops receive paychecks amid the ongoing federal government shutdown. Officials say the donation was accepted by the Department of Defense under its “general gift acceptance authority,” raising questions about legality, transparency, and oversight.
The donor is reported to be Timothy Mellon—heir to the Mellon banking fortune and a major backer of Donald Trump and other conservative causes. Mellon had previously donated tens of millions to the 2024 campaign cycle and is known for his low‑profile giving.
The donation was publicly acknowledged by Trump, who described the giver only as “a friend” and a “great American.” According to Pentagon officials, the funds were earmarked specifically “to offset the cost of service members’ salaries and benefits.”
The donation arrives amid a budget stalemate that has left the government partially shut down and military payrolls in limbo. The Pentagon says it shifted unused research and development funds to meet mid‑month pay, but warned the next paycheck could still be at risk without congressional action.
