Several reports, including a detailed piece in The Atlantic, allege that former President Donald Trump reacted angrily to a $60,000 funeral bill for U.S. Army private Vanessa Guillén, whom he had offered to support financially. The Atlantic claims Trump used derogatory language, questioning the cost and instructing his chief of staff, Mark Meadows, not to pay the bill, which reportedly was not paid. These reports have been met with strong denials from Trump's campaign and former staff, who have labeled the claims as false and politically motivated. The Guillén family attorney has also accused The Atlantic of exploiting the tragedy for political gain, asserting that Trump supported the family and was involved in promoting related legislation. The disputed incident reportedly occurred in December 2020, months after Trump had met with the Guillén family and offered financial help. The controversy arises just weeks before an election, adding to the political tensions surrounding the former president.