Pentagon Accepts Anonymous $130M Donation to Partially Fund Troop Pay Amid Shutdown

The Defense Department accepted an anonymous $130 million donation intended to help pay military service members amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, a move confirmed by Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell. President Trump praised the donor as a patriot, although the identity remains undisclosed, and the donation covers only a fraction of the troops' upcoming pay requirements, which are estimated to be in the billions. This donation marks an unusual departure from the traditional funding process, which relies on Congressional appropriations, and has raised legal questions regarding compliance with the Antideficiency Act, which prohibits using private funds to offset lapses in federal appropriations. Congressional Democrats have expressed concerns and sought more details about the donation, emphasizing potential violations of federal law. The military's pay during the shutdown remains a contentious issue, with legislative efforts to ensure troop pay facing partisan gridlock. The next scheduled military paycheck is set for October 30, with the administration needing to secure additional funds to cover full payments.