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The Dockworkers Union says Trump understands the hard work of members

The vice president of the union that represents thousands of dock workers said after a recent meeting with President-elect Trump that the incoming chief executive understands “the importance of the work that our members do every day.”

Dennis A. Daggett, vice president of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), which represents the 45,000 workers who went on strike in October, said he met with Trump on Thursday. The US Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents port employers, agreed at the end of the strike to extend the contract of ship workers until Jan. 15 – five days before Trump is inaugurated.

The ILA and USMX had agreed on a pay raise for workers, but talks broke down in November over an ongoing dispute over the use of equipment at the ports, which the union says is dangerous. trade union activities. USMX says automation will improve safety and efficiency.

“I had the privilege of meeting President-elect Donald Trump yesterday, and I want to share an experience I never imagined in my wildest dreams,” Daggett wrote Friday morning on Facebook.

TRUMP RETURNS DOCKWORKERS ASSOCIATION ON PORT AUTOMATION LINE, SECOND TEAM SET TO MEET USMX

President-elect Donald Trump rings the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) trading floor on December 12, 2024, in New York City. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

“In my entire career, I have never seen a politician—let alone one in the United States—truly understand the importance of the work that our members do every day,” he continued. “But yesterday, President-elect Trump not only showed that understanding but also showed great respect for the hard work, sacrifice and dedication of our membership.”

Trump shared Daggett’s post on the social media site Truth Social on Saturday. The incoming president said in a previous post that he met with the president and vice president of the ILA on Thursday, and noted that he is on the union’s side when it comes to automation.

Daggett said Trump has been attentive to the group’s concerns, accepting them and participating in a discussion about the “immanent threat” that the Longshore industry poses, American communities and “the very fabric of this great nation.”

Dock workers are picking up from the closed port

Dockworkers strike at the Bayport Container Terminal in Seabrook, Texas, on October 1, 2024. (MAKA FELIX/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)

He said “it’s rare to meet a leader who really listens, and it’s rare to find someone who is willing to do something.”

“Let’s put politics aside, as I know it can be a challenge for some to handle,” said Daggett. “But I saw firsthand something extraordinary—this man really wants to fight for America and its working class. In more than 25 years working in Washington, I have never seen a Republican take the mantle of working class people. President-elect Trump. proved me wrong yesterday.”

“He didn’t just tell us in private that he supported the workers – he made it clear to the whole world,” he continued.

PORT STRIKE UNION BOSS AGAINST EZPASS, ARMING: ‘THE MACHINE MUST STOP’

Crews on strike automation demands

Dockworkers strike at the Bayport Container Terminal in Seabrook, Texas, on October 1, 2024. (Photo by MAKA FELIX/AFP via Getty Images/Getty Images)

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Daggett concluded: “As we move forward, let’s focus on the opportunities ahead. I will continue to fight for your jobs, our communities, and the future of workers in this country.”

USMX reportedly has a meeting set up with Trump’s transition team, although it is unclear when the meeting will take place.


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