Billionaire Timothy Mellon Donates $130M To US Military During Shutdown

Billionaire Timothy Mellon, a reclusive heir to the Mellon banking dynasty and a major financial supporter of President Donald Trump, has been identified as the anonymous donor who contributed around $130 million to help pay U.S. military salaries during a federal government shutdown. Mellon, who lives a quiet life in Wyoming and has given substantial donations to Trump-related political efforts, made this donation to offset payroll shortfalls under a legal provision allowing private gifts to the federal government. The Pentagon accepted the funds with the condition they be used specifically for service members' salaries and benefits. While Mellon's philanthropy has sparked debate over the legality and ethics of private funding for government expenses, similar gifts have occurred repeatedly in recent years without legal repercussions. Mellon’s low-profile lifestyle contrasts with his significant political spending, including large contributions to Trump super PACs and other conservative causes. President Trump publicly praised Mellon as a "patriot" and friend, highlighting the donation as a patriotic act during the shutdown.