US East and Gulf Coast Ports Shut Down as 45,000 Workers Go on Strike

Tens of thousands of workers at major US East and Gulf Coast ports went on strike Tuesday, potentially dragging down the world’s largest economy just over a month before the presidential election. The strike, the first by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) in almost 50 years, affects 36 ports from Maine to Texas, handling goods from food to electronics.

About 45,000 workers are on strike, according to the ILA. The strike follows weeks of stalled talks between the ILA and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents shipping companies and terminal operators. Despite USMX’s late Monday expression of hope for a deal, no agreement was reached before the midnight deadline.

In Elizabeth, New Jersey, trucks passing by honked their horns in support of striking workers carrying American flags and signs blasting port automation as a job killer. One sign read, “Profits over people is unacceptable.” Analysts warn that a lengthy strike could lead to shortages and increased costs, posing a major headwind to the US economy.

The White House stated that President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are “closely monitoring” the strike, with assessments indicating “impacts on consumers are expected to be limited at this time.” Biden called for a “strong and fair offer” to the longshoremen, singling out “foreign-owned ocean carriers” represented by USMX. “These foreign companies have seen record profits… and the president believes it is time they present an offer that reflects ILA workers’ invaluable contribution to their success.”

Under the Taft-Hartley Act, Biden has the authority to order an 80-day “cooling off” period, but he has ruled out this move, citing respect for collective bargaining rights. The National Retail Federation urged Biden to restore operations immediately, warning of “devastating consequences” for American workers and communities.

Former President Donald Trump blamed Biden for the crisis, saying, “He should have worked out a deal.” The strike’s impact on the economy and the presidential election remains to be seen.

The ILA chief negotiator emphasized that the walkouts over pay and job security will slowly lead to a shutdown of America’s economy