WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon confirmed Friday it has accepted an anonymous gift of $130 million to help pay troops during the war. government shutdownraising ethical issues after President Donald Trump announced that a friend had offered a gift to make up the shortfall.
While this gift is large and unusual, it represents a small contribution to the billions needed to covering a soldier's salary. Last week, the Trump administration told Congress that it was using $6.5 billion for wages. The next payday is a week away, and it's unclear whether the administration will transfer money again to ensure the military isn't left without compensation.
“That's what I call a patriot,” Trump said during a White House event on Thursday as he revealed the payment from the donor.
The president refused to name the man he called “my friend,” saying he did not want recognition.
The Pentagon confirmed it accepted the donation on Thursday “as part of its general authority to accept gifts.”
“The donation was made on the condition that it be used to offset the cost of military salaries and benefits,” said Sean Parnell, the Pentagon's chief spokesman. “We are grateful for this donor's help after Democrats decided to withhold troopers' pay.”
Congress is deadlocked due to the government shutdown, which may now become one of the longest federal shutdowns ever, is in its 24th day. Neither Republicans, who control the House and Senate, nor Democrats, who are in the minority, are willing to give up on their broader issues. standoff over health care funding.
Military pay is a key issue for lawmakers in both parties and a source of political pressure. Last week, the Trump administration transferred $8 billion in military research and development funds to payroll, ensuring that military compensation will not lapse.
But it's unclear whether the Trump administration will be willing (or able) to move money again next week as tensions rise over the extended shutdown.
While $130 million is a huge amount, it will cover only a fraction of the billions needed to pay military salaries. Trump said the donation was to cover any “shortfall.”
However, it is unclear what the rules for such a donation are.
Pentagon policy states that authorities “shall consult with their appropriate ethics official before accepting such a gift valued at more than $10,000 to determine whether the donor is involved in any claims, procurement actions, litigation or other Department-specific matters that should be considered before accepting the gift.”
