As the U.S. prepares for possible dockworkers strike at East and Gulf Coast ports on October 1, Republican congressional candidate Carmen Bucco wants the federal government to get involved to protect the supply chain – and union jobs.
Bucco, who is facing Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-Newark) in New Jersey’s 10th district, wants all stakeholders to be at the negotiating table.
“Our leaders must take action and bring all stakeholders to the negotiation table. This issue extends beyond contract disputes and poses a serious threat to our supply chain. We must recognize the essential role the ILA plays in our daily live,” Bucco said. “A strike would have severe consequences for both businesses and consumers, putting our economy at greater risk than during COVID.”
Bucco said that automating port jobs would undermine middle-class workers.
“While automation has its benefits, it should not come at the cost of hardworking American jobs,” he said. “Dependence on technology carries inherent risks, which can become problematic if misused by the government. It’s our duty to ensure that our ports operate smoothly while providing fair wages and benefits for the workers who drive our economy.”