Union Strikes: Dock workers' strike threatens U.S. ports' efficiency and wages, reflecting the complex role of unions in labor history, with strikes often causing chaos and federal intervention while pushing for workers' rights.
The current strike threat by 45,000 dock workers on the East and Gulf Coast highlights ongoing tensions surrounding wages and job automation in U.S. ports. These ports struggle with inefficiency and limited hours compared to global standards, impacting cargo handling and consumer prices. Historically, strikes have been essential in improving working conditions but have often bred chaos and violence. The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 showed the power of organized labor, with a massive wave of workers protesting wage cuts, leading to violent confrontations and federal intervention. While unions have played a role in building the middle class, their impact on industry efficiency remains a complex issue. This situation illustrates the balance needed between fair labor practices and maintaining competitive industry standards, raising questions about the future of unions in the evolving job market.
Labor Unrest: Labor strikes in the 1890s, like the Pullman strike, emphasized workers' struggles for fair treatment and led to the creation of Labor Day as a national holiday to honor labor rights.
Labor strikes in the late 19th century, such as the Pullman strike of 1894, highlighted the struggles between workers seeking fair treatment and companies prioritizing profit. The unrest showed the growing power of organized labor, which alarmed both the government and industry. Despite violent clashes and the use of federal troops to end strikes, these events ultimately led to recognition of workers' rights, including the establishment of Labor Day as a national holiday to honor laborers' contributions. This period marked a significant turning point in the relationship between labor and management in America, demonstrating that collective action could challenge corporate policies and raise awareness about workers’ rights.
Labor Progress: Labor strikes in the early 1900s prompted a shift in government attitude, recognizing unions as partners. Major events like the anthracite miners' strike and the bread and roses strike led to improvements in workers' rights and conditions, culminating in union recognition during the Great Depression.
In the early 1900s, significant labor strikes prompted federal government intervention to mediate conflicts rather than suppress them. President Teddy Roosevelt's role in the anthracite strike was a turning point, marking the beginning of government neutrality towards unions. This shift continued with the 1912 bread and roses strike, where workers demanded not only fair wages but also improved living conditions. Media attention and governmental investigations led to better outcomes for workers. By the 1930s, during the Great Depression, unions were recognized as important partners by the federal government, illustrating a growing support for labor rights and the need for fair treatment of workers in America, which evolved into a collaborative relationship between unions and the government.
Union Power: FDR's support for unions, embodied in the Wagner Act of 1935, empowered workers and led to significant union growth, exemplified by the Flint sit-down strike, which heightened public awareness of labor rights despite economic concerns.
FDR recognized that supporting unions could strengthen labor rights and expand federal power over businesses. The National Labor Relations Act of 1935, also known as the Wagner Act, gave workers the right to form unions and strike, leading to a surge in union membership. A pivotal moment for organized labor was the Flint sit-down strike in 1936, where workers occupied the factory for better wages, working conditions, and union recognition. When GM and the police attempted to forcibly remove the strikers, the workers defended their position using car parts and fire hoses, gaining national attention. Although the New Deal administration generally supported labor, they were cautious of the potential economic fallout from such strikes, highlighting the ongoing tension between labor rights and economic stability during this period.
Labor and Economy: GM's 1937 strike energized labor unions but also led to economic challenges for the auto industry later. Current tax proposals raise fears of harming businesses, prompting individuals to seek ways to safeguard their finances, like investing in gold.
GM's historic strike in 1937 marked a turning point for labor unions, leading to better pay and conditions for workers, as well as the establishment of the UAW. However, this gain came with consequences, as high wages contributed to the decline of the American auto industry in the 1970s. Today's economic discussions reflect similar tensions, with proposed tax increases during the Harris administration raising concerns about business sustainability. Critics argue that these policies could harm the economy, drawing parallels to past labor actions' impact on industry viability. In times of financial uncertainty, individuals are advised to take proactive steps to protect their assets, such as considering investments in gold through services like Birch Gold Group, which offers options to secure one's financial future amidst economic challenges.
Labor Tensions: Truman's era saw a power struggle between labor unions and business, culminating in the Taft-Hartley Act, which he opposed to protect workers' rights, highlighting tensions over union influence and fears of communism.
During Truman's presidency, significant tension existed between labor unions and business interests. In 1946, a major strike by coal miners threatened the economy, leading Truman to temporarily take control of the mines. This display of labor power prompted fears among business leaders, resulting in the Taft-Hartley Act of 1947. Truman vehemently opposed this act, which aimed to limit union power, as he believed it undermined the rights of workers established earlier in the Wagner Act. Unions had grown influential post-war, causing concern about their potential ties to communism among certain political groups. This period marked a critical moment in U.S. labor history where the balance of power between unions and business faced significant challenges.
Union Challenges: Truman's veto of the Taft-Hartley Act aimed to protect workers’ rights. Congress overrode him, limiting unions and leading to declining membership. The air traffic controllers’ strike under Reagan showed unions’ weakening influence, highlighting ongoing challenges in labor relations and workers' rights.
In 1947, President Truman vetoed the Taft-Hartley Act, believing it unfairly favored employers and hurt workers' rights. Despite his objections, Congress overrode his veto. The Act limited union activities, banned closed shops, and allowed governments to intervene in strikes for safety reasons. After its passage, private sector union membership declined, and pressures from globalization made it harder to organize. Significant events, like the air traffic controllers' strike in the 1980s, highlighted the growing struggles unions faced. When the controllers went on strike for better conditions, Reagan fired them for not returning to work. This incident marked a decline in union power and showed the challenges labor faced in balancing rights with economic pressures.
Union Dynamics: Reagan's firing of air traffic controllers in 1981 weakened public sector unions, demonstrating that federal employees could not strike freely, and led to a decline in union membership overall. Although private sector strikes continue, they face significant challenges in gaining support and power.
In 1981, President Reagan took strong action against a strike by air traffic controllers by firing over 11,000 workers and banning their rehire. This event marked a major turning point for labor unions in America, particularly in the public sector. It demonstrated that federal employees could not strike without severe consequences. After this, the power of public sector unions weakened, while private sector unions also faced challenges in maintaining membership. Although public sector unionization grew significantly after JFK opened the door to unionizing government workers, the efficiency gap between private and public sectors widened. While strikes still occur, such as the large UPS strike in 1997 led by the Teamsters Union, they often receive public support when workers demand better conditions like job security. Overall, Reagan's actions reshaped labor relations and left a lasting impact on unions in the United States.
Workers Rising: Labor activism is rising, with significant strikes at John Deere, Amazon, and Starbucks for better wages and conditions. Now, dock workers are prepared to strike, reflecting the growing movement among workers advocating for their rights and benefits in various industries.
Labor movements are gaining momentum in various industries as workers seek better wages and conditions. Notable examples include the John Deere strike, which resulted in significant contract improvements, and ongoing movements at Amazon and Starbucks pushing for better treatment. Recent strikes, such as the Hollywood Writers Guild, showcase the growing visibility of labor demands. Now, dock workers represented by the International Longshoreman’s Association are poised to strike if their contract isn’t renewed soon. These actions highlight a resurgence in labor activism across the U.S., as employees increasingly take a stand for their rights even amid fears of companies relocating jobs. As workers unite for common goals, their success could lead to more positive changes for labor rights and protections nationwide.
Port Strike Impact: A port strike could disrupt global shipping and hurt the economy, affecting the holiday season. Biden is encouraging negotiations instead of intervening, which may have political consequences for Harris during the upcoming election.
A potential strike at major US ports could severely disrupt the economy, affecting global shipping and leading to shortages and price hikes. With crucial holiday sales approaching, the Biden administration is urging negotiations instead of intervening to stop the strike. This could have serious political consequences for Vice President Kamala Harris if economic troubles arise as the election nears, highlighting the delicate balance between labor relations and economic stability.
Why the Dockworkers Strike Could Impact You | FACTS Ep. 18
The Ben Shapiro Show
2491 Episodes
Recent Episodes from The Ben Shapiro Show
2024 VP Debate | Daily Wire Backstage
Don’t miss the 2024 Vice Presidential Debate between JD Vance and Tim Walz, one of the most anticipated events of the election season. Get exclusive pre-show analysis from Ben Shapiro, Matt Walsh, Michael Knowles, Andrew Klavan, and Jeremy Boreing, followed by a post-debate breakdown with insights you won’t hear from the mainstream media.
- - -
Today’s Sponsors:
ExpressVPN - Get 3 Months FREE of ExpressVPN: https://expressvpn.com/backstage
LeafFilter - Schedule your free inspection and get up to 30% off your entire purchase today at https://leaffilter.com/backstage
Lumen - Thanks to Lumen for sponsoring! To get 15% off go to https://lumen.me/BACKSTAGE and start improving your health today.
Ep. 2059 - North Carolina DROWNS, Kamala Does PHOTO OPS
We prepare for the vice presidential debate tonight; Kamala Harris gets awkward with podcasters; and Joe Biden’s brain no longer works.
Donate to help victims of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina: https://bit.ly/4dqCJA8
Click here to join the member-exclusive portion of my show: https://bit.ly/3WDjgHE
Ep.2059
- - -
DailyWire+:
From the white guys who brought you “What is a Woman?” comes Matt Walsh’s next question: “Am I Racist?” | IN THEATERS NOW! Get tickets: https://www.amiracist.com
See the ground-breaking documentary from Matt Walsh that became his first cultural phenomenon. "What Is A Woman?" is the film that started it all. Watch now at https://dailywireplus.com.
Get your Ben Shapiro merch here: https://bit.ly/3TAu2cw
- - -
Today’s Sponsors:
Birch Gold - Text "BEN" to 989898, or go to https://birchgold.com/ben, for your no-cost, no-obligation, FREE information kit.
Grand Canyon University - Find your purpose at Grand Canyon University: https://www.gcu.edu
Boll & Branch - Get my exclusive offer at https://www.bollandbranch.com/ben
Tax Network USA - Seize control of your financial future! Call 1 (800) 958-1000 or visit https://www.TNUSA.com/Shapiro
BetOnline - Use code "BEN" to receive a 50% signup bonus of up to $250 at https://www.betonline.ag
Ramp - Get $250 when you join Ramp. Go to https://www.ramp.com/Shapiro
- - -
Socials:
Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3cXUn53
Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3QtuibJ
Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3TTirqd
Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPyBiB
Ep. 2058 - EPIC: Israel KILLS Hezbollah Leader, Totally REWRITES Middle East
In a stunning display of military skill, Israel kills Hezbollah leader Hasan Nasrallah, decapitating Iran’s largest terror proxy; the White House scrambles to respond; and Kamala plays pretend at the border.
Donate to help victims of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina: https://bit.ly/4dqCJA8
Click here to join the member-exclusive portion of my show: https://bit.ly/3WDjgHE
Ep.2058
- - -
DailyWire+:
Join us Backstage as we watch the VP Debate - LIVE! Tomorrow, Oct 1 at 8:30 PM ET, only at https://dailywire.com
From the white guys who brought you “What is a Woman?” comes Matt Walsh’s next question: “Am I Racist?” | IN THEATERS NOW! Get tickets: https://www.amiracist.com
Get your Ben Shapiro merch here: https://bit.ly/3TAu2cw
- - -
Today’s Sponsors:
PureTalk - Get one year free of DW+ Insider: https://www.PureTalk.com/Shapiro
Policygenius - Get your free life insurance quote & see how much you could save: https://policygenius.com/SHAPIRO
Good Ranchers - Exclusive offer for my listeners with promo code SHAPIRO: https://www.goodranchers.com
Helix Sleep - Get 25% off your order + 2 dream pillows. https://helixsleep.com/BEN
Stamps - Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at https://www.stamps.com/shapiro. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show!
- - -
Socials:
Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3cXUn53
Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3QtuibJ
Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3TTirqd
Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPyBiB
The Decay Of The American Medical Establishment | Dr. Drew Pinsky
Dr. Drew Pinsky is a board-certified internist and addiction medicine specialist with over 35 years of experience in national TV and radio, as well as a New York Times bestselling author and host of The Dr. Drew Podcast. From Celebrity Rehab on VH1, to his eponymous talk shows with leading experts in the medical field, Dr. Drew pushes forward our national conversation on topics like nutrition, medical technology, mental health, and addiction. In today’s episode, Dr. Drew shares his personal experience being censored by the legacy media, surveys the decay of the American medical establishment, and highlights the backward incentives in our governmental agencies which no longer effectively safeguard Americans’ health. While we navigate an extremely polarized political moment, the restoration of Americans’ physical and mental wellbeing should be of paramount importance to all of us. Don’t miss this important conversation with Dr. Drew Pinsky, on this episode of the Sunday Special.
- - -
Today’s Sponsors:
International Fellowship of Christians and Jews - To give to IFCJ, visit https://benforthefellowship.org/
Helix Sleep - Get an exclusive discount at https://helixsleep.com/Ben
Ep. 2057 - The Not-So-Secret SOROS MACHINE
The Kamala campaign goes, hat in hand, to Alex Soros for cash; Harris uses Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a campaign prop; and New York Mayor Eric Adams just got caught in the dumbest scandal ever.
Click here to join the member-exclusive portion of my show: https://bit.ly/3WDjgHE
Ep.2057
- - -
DailyWire+:
From the white guys who brought you “What is a Woman?” comes Matt Walsh’s next question: “Am I Racist?” | IN THEATERS NOW! Get tickets: https://www.amiracist.com
One lucky winner will claim an entire theater for a private showing with 50 of their closest friends! Join the Am I Racist? Theater Takeover Sweepstake NOW: https://amiracist.com
Get your Ben Shapiro merch here: https://bit.ly/3TAu2cw
- - -
Today’s Sponsors:
International Fellowship of Christians and Jews - To give to IFCJ, visit https://benforthefellowship.org/
ZipRecruiter - Try ZipRecruiter for FREE: https://www.ziprecruiter.com/dailywire
Grand Canyon University - Find your purpose at Grand Canyon University: https://www.gcu.edu/
PureTalk - Get one year free of DW+ Insider: https://www.PureTalk.com/Shapiro
Daily Wire Shop - Get the new Am I Racist? party game here: https://bit.ly/3zBUEFY
- - -
Socials:
Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3cXUn53
Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3QtuibJ
Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3TTirqd
Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPyBiB
Why the Dockworkers Strike Could Impact You | FACTS Ep. 18
In this week's episode, Ben takes a look at the recent dockworkers' strike, setting the stage for a broader exploration of the history of strikes in America. He examines the motivations behind these labor actions, their impacts on the economy, and how they have shaped American history. Join Ben as he explores the significance of strikes, illuminating key moments, influential figures and important laws, while discussing how these developments can affect your life today.
----
Today's Sponsor:
Birch Gold - Text "BEN" to 989898, or go to https://birchgold.com/ben, for your no-cost, no-obligation, FREE information kit. Qualifying purchases will get an exclusive GOLDEN Truth Bomb.
Ep. 2056 - Harris COLLAPSES On National Television…AGAIN
Kamala Harris gives a ridiculously vague speech to tout her new economic plan, and even CNN notices; Harris follows up with a gobbledygook interview on MSNBC; and Joe Biden accidentally shivs Harris on "The View."
Click here to join the member-exclusive portion of my show: https://bit.ly/3WDjgHE
Ep.2056
- - -
DailyWire+:
Join us Backstage as we watch the VP Debate - LIVE! Tuesday, Oct 1 at 8:30PM ET, only at https://dailywire.com
From the white guys who brought you “What is a Woman?” comes Matt Walsh’s next question: “Am I Racist?” | IN THEATERS NOW! Get tickets: https://www.amiracist.com
Get your Ben Shapiro merch here: https://bit.ly/3TAu2cw
- - -
Today’s Sponsors:
ExpressVPN - Get 3 Months FREE of ExpressVPN: https://expressvpn.com/ben
American Financing - Call American Financing at (866) 721-3300 OR Visit https://americanfinancing.net/shapiro. Disclaimer: NMLS 182334, https://nmlsconsumeraccess.org. APR for rates in the 4s start at APR 5.672% for well qualified borrowers. Call 866-721-3300 for details about credit costs and terms
Sticker Mule - Shop Daily Wire merch: https://stickermule.com/dailywire
Bambee - Visit https://www.bambee.com/ and type in ‘Ben Shapiro’ when you sign up.
Birch Gold - Text "BEN" to 989898, or go to https://birchgold.com/ben, for your no-cost, no-obligation, FREE information kit. Qualifying purchases will get an exclusive GOLDEN Truth Bomb.
- - -
Socials:
Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3cXUn53
Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3QtuibJ
Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3TTirqd
Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPyBiB
Ep. 2055 - Kamala’s Most INSANE Plan
Kamala Harris proposes to kill the filibuster and destroy the constitutional structure; consumer confidence tumbles as the White House tries to talk Americans out of their economic insecurity; and Joe Biden babbles to the United Nations.
Click here to join the member-exclusive portion of my show: https://bit.ly/3WDjgHE
Ep.2055
- - -
DailyWire+:
From the white guys who brought you “What is a Woman?” comes Matt Walsh’s next question: “Am I Racist?” | IN THEATERS NOW! Get tickets: https://www.amiracist.com
See the ground-breaking documentary from Matt Walsh that became his first cultural phenomenon. "What Is A Woman?" is the film that started it all. Watch now at https://www.dailywireplus.com.
Get your Ben Shapiro merch here: https://bit.ly/3TAu2cw
- - -
Today’s Sponsors:
PureTalk - Get one year free of DW+ Insider: https://www.PureTalk.com/Shapiro
Helix Sleep - Get 25% off your order + 2 dream pillows. https://helixsleep.com/BEN
Balance of Nature - Get 35% off Your Order + FREE Fiber & Spice Supplements. Use promo code SHAPIRO at checkout: https://www.balanceofnature.com/
Ramp - Get $250 when you join Ramp. Go to https://www.ramp.com/Shapiro
BetOnline - Use code "BEN" to receive a 50% signup bonus of up to $250 at https://www.betonline.ag/
- - -
Socials:
Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3cXUn53
Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3QtuibJ
Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3TTirqd
Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPyBiB
Ep. 2054 - ZELENSKY Election INTERFERENCE?!
The White House flies in Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to campaign in Pennsylvania; Israel goes hard after Hezbollah, as the Biden administration bumbles; and the business community whistles past the Kamala graveyard.
Click here to join the member-exclusive portion of my show: https://bit.ly/3WDjgHE
Ep.2054
- - -
DailyWire+:
From the white guys who brought you “What is a Woman?” comes Matt Walsh’s next question: “Am I Racist?” | IN THEATERS NOW! Get tickets: https://www.amiracist.com
See the ground-breaking documentary from Matt Walsh that became his first cultural phenomenon. "What Is A Woman?" is the film that started it all. Watch now at dailywireplus.com.
Get your Ben Shapiro merch here: https://bit.ly/3TAu2cw
- - -
Today’s Sponsors:
Birch Gold - Text "BEN" to 989898, or go to https://birchgold.com/ben, for your no-cost, no-obligation, FREE information kit. Qualifying purchases will get an exclusive GOLDEN Truth Bomb.
Tax Network USA - Seize control of your financial future! Call 1-800-958-1000 or visit https://www.TNUSA.com/Shapiro
Boll & Branch - Get my exclusive offer at https://www.bollandbranch.com/ben
Prize Picks - Download the app today and use code "BEN" to get $50 instantly when you play $5: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/BEN
Grand Canyon University - Find your purpose at Grand Canyon University: https://www.gcu.edu/
- - -
Socials:
Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3cXUn53
Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3QtuibJ
Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3TTirqd
Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPyBiB
Ep. 2053 - The Biggest Scandal In Modern American HISTORY…And No One Cares!
Joe Biden isn’t presiding over his own cabinet meetings and nobody seems to care; the situation on Israel’s northern border heats up, even as the White House struggles for a policy; and Kamala maintains the momentum without answering any questions.
Click here to join the member-exclusive portion of my show: https://bit.ly/3WDjgHE
Ep.2053
- - -
DailyWire+:
- - -
Today’s Sponsors:
PureTalk - Get one year free of DW+ Insider: https://www.PureTalk.com/Shapiro
The Wellness Company - Exclusive Discount for my Listeners. Use promo code BEN at https://www.UrgentCareKit.com/BEN
Blinds - Exclusive Discount for my Listeners! Tell them The Ben Shapiro Show sent you! https://www.blinds.com
Policygenius - Get your free life insurance quote & see how much you could save: https://policygenius.com/SHAPIRO
BetOnline - Use code "BEN" to receive a 50% signup bonus of up to $250 at https://www.betonline.ag
- - -
Socials:
Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3cXUn53
Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3QtuibJ
Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3TTirqd
Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPyBiB