Dockworkers’ strike could push up prices and cause shortages if it lasts for weeks

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — From Maine to Texas, dockworkers at 36 ports across the eastern United States are on strike for the first time in decades, a work stoppage that could snarl supply chains and cause shortages and higher prices if it stretches on for more than a few weeks. Workers began walking picket lines early Tuesday in a strike over wages and the ports’ use of automation, though some progress was reported in negotiations over a new contract. The existing contract between the ports and about 45,000 members of the International Longshoremen’s Association expired at midnight. The strike, coming weeks before a tight presidential election, could become a factor in the race if shortages begin to affect many voters.

Justice Department finds Georgia is ‘deliberately indifferent’ to unchecked abuses at its prisons

ATLANTA (AP) — The U.S. Justice Department says Georgia’s state prison systems are ‘deliberately indifferent’ to unchecked deadly violence, widespread drug use, extortion and sexual abuse at state lockups. In a stark 93-page report issued Tuesday, the department said legal action is likely in the coming weeks to correct the problems. Multiple allegations of sexual abuse are recounted in the report, including abuse of LGBTQ inmates. Homicide behind bars is also a danger. The report said there were five homicides at four different prisons in just one month in 2023.

US job openings rise to 8 million as labor market remains sturdy

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. job openings rose unexpectedly in August as the American labor market continued to show resilience. The Labor Department reported Tuesday that employers posted 8 million vacancies in August, up from 7.7 million in July. Economists had expected openings to be virtually unchanged. Layoffs fell in August. But the number of Americans quitting their jobs — a sign of confidence in the labor market — slid in August.

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs accused of sexual misconduct by 120 people, attorney says

HOUSTON (AP) — An attorney says he is representing 120 accusers who have come forward with sexual misconduct allegations against Sean “Diddy” Combs. Houston attorney Tony Buzbee said Tuesday that he expects lawsuits to be filed within the next month. Buzbee described the victims as 60 males and 60 females, and that 25 were minors at the time of the alleged misconduct. Combs is currently behind bars in New York, awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges. He has pleaded not guilty. An attorney for Combs says the mogul denies sexually abusing anyone, including minors. Buzbee has represented women who accused NFL quarterback Deshaun Watson of sexual assault.