Introduction to the Issue

A mysterious donation of $130 million was made to pay US troops during the government shutdown.

Key Points

The donation was made by a private donor who wishes to remain anonymous, but has been revealed to be Timothy Mellon, a reclusive billionaire and anti-tax crusader.
The donation is legally controversial and may violate the Antideficiency Act.
The Pentagon accepted the donation under the general gift acceptance authority, but Congress may need to get involved for it to actually reach the troops.