Strike threat by port security workers at Los Angeles–Long Beach

About 250 union watchmen at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach could strike as early as 5 p.m. Pacific time Sunday, Nov. 1, threatening cargo operations at the nation’s busiest container port complex if negotiators fail to reach a new labor agreement.

Members of International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 26 have authorized a strike, according to the Pacific Maritime Association, which represents employers. The employers group said negotiations are continuing with the assistance of federal mediators.

The potential disruption could extend well beyond the security workforce. PMA said the watchmen represent about 2% of ILWU workers at the two ports, but work at terminals handling roughly 85% of Long Beach’s cargo and 33% of Los Angeles’ cargo. The employer group expects other ILWU members would honor picket lines, potentially halting vessel, yard and gate operations at affected facilities.

The watchmen’s previous agreement expired in July 2025, and employees have continued working under extensions. The latest extension expires Sunday, following more than a year of negotiations that have left the union and employers divided.

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