Written by Lisa Murimi
Tens of thousands of dockworkers from the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) have launched an indefinite strike at 14 major ports along the U.S. East and Gulf coasts.
The walkout, which started Tuesday, has halted container traffic from Maine to Texas, creating concerns over significant trade disruptions ahead of the presidential election and the busy holiday shopping season.
This marks the first such shutdown in almost 50 years. Despite having the power to suspend the strike for 80 days, President Joe Biden’s administration has indicated no plans to intervene.
At the heart of the dispute is a stalled six-year master contract covering 25,000 workers.
Shipping firms, represented by the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX), had offered a 50% wage increase and enhanced pension and health care benefits.
However, ILA leader Harold Daggett is demanding higher wages and addressing concerns over job losses due to automation.
Key sectors, including agriculture, clothing, and auto manufacturing, are bracing for disruptions.
Economists warn that if the strike continues, it could cost the U.S. economy $4.5 billion weekly, with rising prices and potential job losses.
As negotiations remain deadlocked, the strike introduces economic uncertainty, posing political risks for President Biden ahead of the election.
