With the International Longshoremen’s Association intent on striking on October 1^st unless an acceptable contract offer is received from the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX), the consortium of operators of Atlantic and Gulf ports. Trade associations including the National Association of Manufacturers, the American Trucking Association and the National Retail Federation have lobbied the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to urge the Administration to become involved. 

In concurrent action, a letter was addressed to the White House by 69 Republican Members of the House noting that a strike would have devastating economic consequences. Legislators emphasized the need for immediate intervention to achieve a reasonable compromise.

The letter stated, “We expect the Administration to provide any and all support it can offer to both parties as these negotiations continue.  Furthermore, if the strike should occur we urge the Administration to use every authority at its disposal to ensure a continuing flow of goods and avoid undue harm to American consumers and the national economy.” 

Given the need to secure support of unions for the upcoming election, the White House has indicated that it does not intend to invoke the Taft-Hartley Act that would force workers to continue activities while negotiating, thereby limiting port stoppages.  This action would be politically unacceptable to all unions at a critical juncture in the election process.

The Administration should however use its power of persuasion with Acting Secretary of Labor, Julie Su and possibly Transportation Secretary, Pete Buttigieg to become involved in negotiations.  Administration participation was instrumental in achieving a mutually acceptable agreement between unions and operators of West coast ports in 2023.