Pentagon accepts $130 million donation to help pay the military during the government shutdown
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### Pentagon Accepts $130 Million Anonymous Donation to Pay Military Amid Government Shutdown
*By Konstantin Toropin and Lisa Mascaro, Associated Press*
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon confirmed on Friday that it has accepted an anonymous $130 million gift to help pay military members during the ongoing government shutdown. The donation raises ethical questions following President Donald Trump’s announcement that a friend had offered the gift to cover any payroll shortfalls.
While substantial, the gift represents only a small portion of the billions needed for service member paychecks. The Trump administration last week announced it had used $6.5 billion to cover payroll. With the next payday approaching within the week, it remains unclear whether the administration will again reallocate funds to avoid delayed military compensation.
“That’s what I call a patriot,” President Trump said during a White House event Thursday, referring to the anonymous donor. The president declined to name the individual, calling him “a friend of mine,” who wished to remain anonymous.
The Pentagon confirmed the donation Thursday “under its general gift acceptance authority.” Sean Parnell, Pentagon chief spokesman, stated, “The donation was made on the condition that it be used to offset the cost of service members’ salaries and benefits. We are grateful for this donor’s assistance after Democrats opted to withhold pay from troops.”
The shutdown, now in its 24th day, is on track to become one of the longest federal closures in U.S. history. Neither Republicans, who control the House and Senate, nor Democrats, the minority, have been willing to compromise on broader health care funding matters.
Military pay remains a bipartisan priority and a point of political leverage. Last week, the administration shifted $8 billion from military research and development funds to make payroll, ensuring compensation continued without interruption.
However, it is uncertain if the administration is willing or able to shift money again as the shutdown continues.
Though $130 million is a significant sum, it covers only a fraction of the billions required to pay military personnel. Trump said the donation was meant to cover any “shortfall.”
What remains unclear are the rules and regulations surrounding such a donation. Pentagon policy requires consultation with an Ethics Official before accepting gifts over $10,000 to determine whether the donor is involved in any claims, procurement actions, litigation, or other matters with the Department.
*Originally published: October 24, 2025, at 3:11 PM CDT.*
https://www.twincities.com/2025/10/24/government-shutdown-pentagon-donation/
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