The anonymous donor who provided $130 million for US military salaries amid the partial federal government shutdown was identified as “the reclusive billionaire“ Timothy Mellon, writes The New York Times, citing its sources.
US President Donald Trump announced earlier that the Washington administration had received a check for $130 million, which will go to the military. The American leader refused to reveal the name of the donor, explaining that he did not seek publicity and requested anonymity. Trump simply called the donor a patriot and a friend.
Two sources told the newspaper that the funds were donated by banker and railroad magnate Mellon, a longtime Trump supporter who donated $50 million to a super PAC supporting the Republican presidential campaign in 2024. The newspaper noted that Mellon prefers a secluded lifestyle and spends most of his time in Wyoming.