Harris Backs Historic Dockworkers' Strike for Fair Wages

Vice President Kamala Harris has expressed her support for the striking longshoremen on the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico, emphasizing the strike's focus on fairness as foreign-owned shipping companies report record profits. The strike, the first by the International Longshoremen's Association in nearly 50 years, has arisen from failed negotiations with the United States Maritime Alliance over wage increases and a ban on automation. Harris criticized former President Donald Trump for making 'empty promises' and favoring wealthy elites over laborers and has vowed to pass the PRO Act to strengthen labor rights if elected president. The Biden administration has opted not to intervene, allowing the workers to negotiate independently. Despite lukewarm responses to Harris's support, the workers remain focused on their demands, and union leader Harold Daggett retains their backing despite criticism over his high salary. The economic impact of the strike could be significant, with estimates suggesting a cost of approximately $2.1 billion for a one-week disruption.