‘Mystery Man’ Who Donated $130 Million
1. Shutdown Drama
During what critics call the “Schumer Shutdown,” Democrats blocked a bill that would have temporarily paid essential federal workers.
The issue escalated when President Trump announced that an anonymous donor had contributed $130 million to help pay U.S. troops.
2. Donor Identified
The New York Times later reported the donor as billionaire Timothy Mellon,
though neither Mellon nor Trump has confirmed it.
Mellon has a history of large political donations,
including $50 million to a Trump PAC,
and is described as a reclusive heir to the Mellon banking family.
3. Mellon’s Background
Mellon is known for avoiding the spotlight, supporting Robert F. Kennedy Jr.,
and funding unusual projects. He once backed an expedition to investigate Amelia Earhart’s disappearance and bought the Pan Am brand for a rail venture.
4. Legal Questions
The Pentagon accepted the donation, but the Antideficiency Act may prevent using it during a shutdown.
A spokesman said the money was given “on the condition that it be used to offset the cost of service members’ salaries and benefits.”
