A strike by the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) is set to begin at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, impacting operations at ports from Brownsville to Boston, unless a last-minute deal is reached with the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX). The ILA, representing 50,000 dockworkers, is demanding a substantial wage increase, including a 77% raise over six years and protections against automation of cargo handling equipment. The current contract expires at midnight, and negotiations have stalled since June, raising concerns about significant supply chain disruptions, especially ahead of the holiday season. If the strike occurs, it would be the ILA's first since 1977, potentially affecting about half of the nation's maritime freight. While there has been some movement in negotiations, the USMX has been accused of blocking a fair settlement, with the ILA arguing that current wage offers are inadequate. President Biden has the option to intervene under the Taft-Hartley Act but has indicated he will not do so while negotiations are ongoing.