Timothy Mellon net worth: All about Donald Trump's 'patriot friend' who donates $130 million for military salary during government shutdown

Timothy Mellon has been revealed as U.S. Donald Trump's 'friend' who donated $130 million for salary of military officials. The Pentagon confirmed on Friday that it has accepted an anonymous $130 million gift to help pay members of the military during the government shutdown, raising ethical questions after President Donald Trump had announced that a friend had offered the gift to defray any shortfalls.

"That’s what I call a patriot," Trump said during a White House event Thursday when he disclosed the payment from the donor. The president declined to name the person, whom he called "a friend of mine", saying the man didn't want the recognition. The Pentagon confirmed it had accepted the donation on Thursday "under its general gift acceptance authority."

Who is Timothy Mellon?

Timothy Mellon is the grandson of financier and U.S. Treasury Secretary Andrew Mellon. Mellon's family business runs from oil to aluminum. Timothy Mellon's net worth estimated from $700 million, $1 billion and $4.2 billion, according to reports.

Timothy Mellon Donation

While large and unusual, the gift amounts to a small contribution toward the billions needed to cover service member paychecks. The Trump administration told Congress last week that it used $6.5 billion to make payroll. The next payday is coming within the week, and it is unclear if the administration will again move money around to ensure the military does not go without compensation.

“The donation was made on the condition that it be used to offset the cost of Service members’ salaries and benefits,” said Sean Parnell, chief spokesman for the Pentagon. “We are grateful for this donor’s assistance after Democrats opted to withhold pay from troops.”

Congress is at a stalemate over the government shutdown, now on track to become one of the longest federal closures ever, in its 24th day. Neither Republicans, who have control of the House and Senate, nor Democrats, in the minority, are willing to budge in their broader standoff over health care funding.

Payment for service members is a key concern among lawmakers of both parties as well as a point of political leverage. The Trump administration shifted $8 billion from military research and development funds to make payroll last week, ensuring that military compensation did not lapse.

But it is unclear if the Trump administration will be willing — or able — to shift money again next week as tensions rise over the protracted shutdown.

While the $130 million is a hefty sum, it would cover just a fraction of the billions needed for military paychecks. Trump said the donation was to cover any “shortfall.”

FAQs

Q1. How much donation Timothy Mellon gave?
A1. Timothy Mellon has donated $130 million gift.

Q2. Who is President of USA?
A2. President of USA is Donald Trump.