Sharon Simmons, the DoorDash driver who delivered a McDonald's order to Donald Trump at the White House on Monday, has been suspended after a video emerged of her threatening Trump supporters. The incident has sparked controversy over the authenticity of the delivery, which DoorDash later confirmed was a staged stunt.
Simmons had previously lobbied in favour of Trump's 'no tax on tips' policy, testifying before Congress in July 2025. DoorDash stated that the delivery was arranged to celebrate the policy being enshrined into law a year earlier, and that Simmons had moved from Nevada to Arkansas in late 2025 to be closer to family.
The White House's rapid response account quoted Simmons as saying she saved more than $11,000 in tips 'by not having to claim' them on her taxes. However, the Tax Policy Center noted that the policy only provides a temporary deduction of up to $25,000 in tips annually, and the average tax cut for eligible employees is estimated at $1,800 a year.
DoorDash did not comment on whether Simmons is compensated for her lobbying efforts. Labour advocates have criticised the 'no tax on tips' policy, arguing it offers limited benefit and risks expanding tips as income for low-wage workers while reducing base wages.
One Fair Wage president Saru Jayaraman condemned the publicity stunt, saying, 'Corporations are paying poverty wages while policymakers offer Band-Aid solutions like “no tax on tips” instead of raising pay.'
