On December 4th, the membership of ILA Local 1414 in Savannah Georgia overwhelmingly voted Benjamin Bryan out of office. He had served two terms as the President.

Bryant had testified in federal court, along with management and other top ILA top officials, to enforce the terms of the 2004 contract even though there were serious irregularities with the vote. Bryant was among the leadership of the ILA who declared the 2004 contract, “The greatest contract in the history of our industry.”

The contract deepened wage, container royalty and benefit tiers that have hurt the membership and the union treasury.

Bryant also holds paid positions as an ILA Vice President and a Vice President of the South Atlantic and Gulf Coast District. Unfortunately in the ILA, even when the membership votes you out, you still get to keep several salaries. Rumors are circulating that Bryant might also be selected to serve as a paid safety officer even after his loss.

Former LWC Co-Chair wins Vice Presidency of 1414
Former LWC Co-Chair Eddie MacBride, won the Vice Presidency in Local 1414. MacBride has been a longtime supporter of “One Member–One Vote” in the ILA and was a vocal critic of the 2004 contract. MacBride helped to found the LWC in 1999, while he served as President of Local 1414.