Workers began walking picket lines early Tuesday in a strike over wages and the ports’ use of automation, though some progress was reported in negotiations over a new contract. The existing contract between the ports and about 45,000 members of the International Longshoremen’s Association expired at midnight.
The strike comes just weeks before a tight presidential election and could become a factor in the race if shortages begin to affect many voters.
In early picketing, workers outside the Port of Philadelphia walked in a circle and chanted, "No work without a fair contract." The union, which is striking for the first time since 1977, posted message boards on the side of a truck reading: "Automation Hurts Families: ILA Stands For Job Protection."