Trump Reveals ‘Friend’ Donated $130 Million to Support US Military During Government Shutdown

President Trump recently mentioned that a friend donated $130 million to the Pentagon. This donation was aimed at covering military costs during the ongoing government shutdown. While Trump praised his friend as a “patriot,” he didn’t reveal the donor’s identity, emphasizing their wish for privacy.

The Pentagon verified this generous gift, stating it falls under their “general gift acceptance authority.” According to Sean Parnell, the Pentagon’s spokesperson, the funds are to be used for service members’ salaries and benefits.

However, this situation raises legal questions. Is it permissible for the Pentagon to spend this money without congressional approval? According to Cornell Law School, any received donation must be deposited in the Treasury promptly. The U.S. Constitution’s Appropriations Clause also mandates that funds can only be drawn from the treasury with congressional authorization.

Data suggests that government shutdowns can significantly impact military members. For instance, during the last major shutdown, military personnel faced delayed paychecks. Army veteran and financial expert, Linda Zhou, noted, “These financial uncertainties can significantly affect service members and their families.”

This donation is particularly noteworthy in light of the recent data from the Federal Reserve, which reveals that about 40% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. With many military families potentially facing similar financial instability during the shutdown, this $130 million could provide essential support.

The shutdown stems from a funding deadlock in Congress, largely over healthcare subsidy disputes. Active military members were only able to start receiving paychecks again after Trump authorized the use of leftover funds. It’s a complex situation that highlights the intersection of military funding, political debates, and the genuine support from private citizens amidst government challenges.

For more on the legalities of such donations, check out this detailed overview from Cornell Law School.



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