For the first time in decades, dockworkers at 36 ports from Maine to Texas are on strike. Furthermore, if it lasts longer than a few weeks, it will choke supply networks, resulting in shortages and increased prices.
While they’ve been working for awhile on getting things moved and stored in preparation for the strike, stores like Costco and Walmart are already seeing a massive increase in customers stocking up on supplies. Couple that with horrific storm Helene and millions still stranded without basic supplies, and we’ve got trouble brewing my friends. There are hundreds of stores that are already running out of food and water that are miles away from the storm disaster from Florida to New York.
Although some progress had been reported in the most recent contract discussions, workers started walking picket lines early this morning in a walkout over salaries. The interesting thing is, a tight presidential election is just 34 days away, and the strike will also play a role if shortages have an impact on voters.