Harold Daggett’s large salary has come under scrutiny, as has his relationship with Trump after a photo was shared of the two men.
Harold Daggett, the leader of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), is facing criticism for his relationship with former President Donald Trump and his salary as the port strike continues.
On Monday night, nearly 50,000 port workers agreed to strike after a collective bargaining agreement wasn’t reached. The strike has the potential to halt imports to the United States and Daggett previously warned that it would « crush » the U.S. economy.
The strike coming a month before the election is unwelcome news for President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump has long been seen as more trustworthy on the economy, although Harris has started to close the gap. People losing their jobs or an increase in inflation has the potential to erase Harris’ advances on the issue.
In the wake of the port strike starting, attention has turned to Daggett. Social media users shared a photo of him and Trump from a meeting in November. Daggett, a New York native, said in a statement in July that he’s known Trump for « decades » from New York City. He added that they’re the same age and both from Queens.
In November, Daggett met with Trump in Mar-a-Lago, which he called a « wonderful » and « productive » meeting.
« President Trump promised to support the ILA in its opposition to automated terminals in the U.S. Mr. Trump also listened to my concerns about Federal ‘Right To Work’ laws which undermines unions and their ability to represent and fight for its membership », Daggett said.
