Harold Daggett meets with 45 to mastermind a plan to “cripple” the economy right before the election

Harold Daggett, leader of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), Daggett’s union was making progress in negotiations with port operators, but instead of finalizing a deal, he escalated demands, asking for wage increases of up to 60% over six years and a freeze on automation at ports. The situation nearly reached a resolution, but Daggett chose to dig in his heels and push for more, showing a willingness to “cripple” the economy if his demands aren’t met.

By threatening a strike at a critical time, Daggett and his union could throw the U.S. economy into turmoil, potentially benefiting Trump’s election chances. This move shows that Daggett is leveraging his power not just for his workers, but to make a broader political statement, even if it comes at the cost of economic stability.

Harold Daggett’s decision to escalate the strike just before the 2024 election shows a clear shift in allegiance, especially after his meeting with Donald Trump. While the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) was close to reaching a deal, Daggett unexpectedly pushed for even more, turning negotiations into a full-blown labor dispute. This dramatic shift suggests that Trump’s influence may have played a role in encouraging Daggett to leverage his union’s power for political purposes.

Daggett’s decision to move forward with the strike—despite the potential for resolution—indicates he may be using the strike as a political tool, aligning with Trump’s interests. By worsening the economic crisis right before the election, Daggett is indirectly boosting Trump’s campaign narrative, framing the Biden Admin. as unable to manage labor disputes and the economy effectively. Trump could have influenced this decision by offering Daggett political support or by framing the strike as a way to showcase the failures of the current administration. This alliance highlights Daggett’s shift away from labor negotiations and into political maneuvering, using his union’s power to potentially tip the scales in Trump’s favor.