Tipping Culture Sparks Debate in US Election

Tipping in the U.S. has evolved into a complex and often controversial practice, with many Americans feeling overwhelmed by the increasing expectations to tip across various sectors. Historically rooted in discriminatory labor practices, tipping was originally used to avoid paying fair wages, particularly to Black workers in service jobs post-Civil War. A recent Pew Research survey indicates that a significant majority of Americans believe tipping is expected in more places than five years ago, contributing to a phenomenon termed 'tipping fatigue.' Meanwhile, bipartisan support from presidential candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris for exempting tips from federal income taxes may exacerbate the issue, potentially impacting both consumers and service workers. Experts argue that this culture of obligatory tipping has created psychological stress and confusion among the public, with many asserting that tipping has spiraled out of control. The debate over tipping's role in American society continues to be a contentious topic, especially in light of recent trends in consumer behavior and technology.