Pat Gallagher, representing the North Coast Labor Federation, discussed the critical need for American shipbuilding, the impact of tariff uncertainty on industries and the importance of labor-friendly candidates in local elections. He highlighted the Ships for America Now Act, reflected on the legacy of former United Steelworkers president Leo Gerard and emphasized the significance of union representation in political offices.
Gallagher stressed the urgency of passing the Ships for America Now Act to revitalize the U.S. shipbuilding industry. He pointed out the stark contrast between America's 80 ships flagged for international commerce and China's 5,000, underscoring the need for immediate action to rebuild America's shipbuilding infrastructure. Gallagher discussed the bipartisan support for the bill and its potential to create jobs and strengthen America's position in global trade.
The conversation turned to the impact of tariff uncertainty on American industries. Gallagher explained how the constant flux in tariff policies creates hesitation among businesses to make long-term investments, potentially costing jobs and hindering economic growth. He called for a normalization of tariff situations to provide the certainty needed for prudent business decisions and to safeguard American jobs in steel, auto and other major industries.
Gallagher also highlighted the importance of electing labor-friendly candidates in local elections. He discussed specific races, including Davida Russell's campaign for mayor of Cleveland Heights and Danny Kelly's bid for re-election to the Cleveland City Council. Gallagher emphasized how having union members and labor-friendly individuals in elected positions can significantly impact working people's causes, citing Kelly's successful efforts to ensure 100 percent union labor for the new Cleveland Cavaliers facility.
Listen to the full episode for more about the critical issues facing American labor and industry.