Secret Donor Timothy Mellon Gives $130M to Support U.S. Troops

Timothy Mellon, a billionaire heir to the Mellon fortune, has emerged as the anonymous donor who contributed $130 million to the U.S. government to assist in paying military personnel during the ongoing government shutdown. This substantial donation was revealed by President Donald Trump during a press conference, although he refrained from naming Mellon, merely referring to him as a “patriot” and a friend.

Two sources familiar with the matter disclosed Mellon’s identity on the condition of anonymity, citing the private nature of the contribution. Trump reiterated his praise for the unnamed benefactor during a flight to Malaysia, describing him as “a great American citizen” who prefers to remain out of the public eye. “He doesn’t want publicity,” Trump noted, emphasizing the rarity of such discretion in political circles.

The Pentagon confirmed it accepted the donation under the “general gift acceptance authority,” with the stipulation that the funds be allocated specifically to offset the costs of service members’ salaries and benefits. According to Sean Parnell, the Pentagon’s chief spokesperson, the donation aims to support the over 1.3 million active-duty troops.

Despite this generous contribution, it is unclear how significantly the $130 million will alleviate financial pressures. The Congressional Budget Office indicated that the Trump administration’s budget request for 2025 includes approximately $600 billion in total military compensation. The donation translates to about $100 per service member, raising questions about its overall impact.

Mellon, a prominent figure in Republican funding circles, has a history of supporting Trump, having previously donated tens of millions to political action committees backing the president. His $50 million contribution to a super PAC in the previous election cycle marked one of the largest single donations ever recorded for such efforts.

Originally from a banking and railroad dynasty, Mellon has maintained a low profile despite his significant financial influence. He resides mainly in Wyoming and has been a vocal supporter of various causes, including those championed by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

In a self-published autobiography from 2015, Mellon expressed views on social issues that have drawn criticism, particularly regarding race and social programs. His political contributions have surged since Trump’s rise, reflecting a shift in his public persona.

The donation’s legality is currently under scrutiny, as it may conflict with the Antideficiency Act, which prohibits federal agencies from accepting donations or incurring obligations beyond congressional appropriations. Despite the complexities, the Trump administration has sought alternative funding routes to ensure military personnel receive their pay during the shutdown.

As of this past week, approximately 670,000 federal workers have been furloughed, with another 730,000 working without pay. The administration’s unorthodox financial maneuvers include ordering the Pentagon to redirect unspent funds to cover military salaries.

Trump’s commitment to ensuring military pay continues, despite the lack of legislative approval, underscores the ongoing challenges posed by the government shutdown. As the situation develops, the implications of Mellon’s donation and the administration’s funding strategies remain a focal point for both lawmakers and the public.