Thousands of dockworkers across the East Coast, from Maine to Texas, have initiated a major strike, marking the first of its kind in nearly five decades. Picket lines have formed as workers demand better wages and protections against automation, with significant implications for the U.S. economy. The strike is expected to disrupt critical supply chains, impacting major retailers like Walmart, Ikea, and Home Depot, and could lead to shortages of essential goods including food, cars, and alcohol. Governor Hochul and other officials are preparing for the potential escalation of the situation, which poses risks not only to local economies but also to international trade, particularly for European automakers. Consumers are already expressing concerns as the disruptions threaten to worsen inflation and result in panic buying amidst empty shelves. The Biden administration faces a challenging scenario as they navigate the complexities of the labor dispute while trying to balance economic stability.