New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is under fire after claiming credit for a reported $104 million increase in delivery worker tips. Critics argue this increase was due to legislation enacted before Mamdani took office, potentially worsening cost of living issues in the city.

During a press conference and a social media post, Mamdani stated, “We’ve put $104 million back in delivery workers’ pockets,” referencing changes to Uber Eats’ and DoorDash’s apps that highlighted tipping. He added, “This is only the beginning.” These changes derive from a law approved by the New York City Council prior to Mamdani’s tenure as mayor. Former Mayor Eric Adams allowed the measure to become law after 30 days without signing it. The law took effect in January under Mamdani’s administration, which managed its enforcement.

“A law is only as good as its implementation,” a spokesperson for Mamdani told Fox News Digital. “We have been intentional about enforcing the laws on the books so that we are putting money back into the pockets of working New Yorkers.”

Before implementation, the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection found that Uber Eats and DoorDash had hidden tipping options and set default tips under 10%, leading to a 79% decrease in tips for delivery workers. The law required these companies to enhance tipping visibility, leading to the estimated $104 million in additional tips.

Mamdani’s office disputes claims that the mayor is taking credit for prior efforts, highlighting the role his administration played in executing the law starting January 26.

Critics, including conservatives and political commentators on social media, have been quick to criticize Mamdani for the already high cost of goods and services in NYC, accusing him of taking undue credit. Actor Michael Rapaport criticized the mayor on social media, emphasizing the bill’s passage before Mamdani’s term.

“This guy is a fantastic lying politician,” Rapaport posted. “He had literally nothing to do with this. City Council passed the bill last August. Eric Adams never signed it. The bill became law 30 days later, and Mamdani is now taking the credit.”

Further criticism has emerged online, with commentators suggesting the increased tipping requirements may lead to higher costs for New Yorkers. Finance podcaster Joseph Carlson noted, “They forced delivery drivers to be paid a minimum wage of $22/hour, resulting in higher fees passed to customers.” In response, apps made tipping optional, but New York’s requirements led to customers facing higher costs.

Andrew Mark Miller is a reporter at Fox News. Find him on Twitter @andymarkmiller and email tips to [email protected].