At the annual Maritime Trades Department Executive Board meeting, U.S. Representative Tom Suozzi (D-N.Y.) delivered a powerful message of support for the U.S. maritime industry, stressing the need for increased investment in both the sector and its workforce. Suozzi, whose district is home to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, highlighted the importance of renewing federal commitment to an industry that has been neglected for years, urging a return to the values that once made the U.S. maritime sector a global leader.
“My district is home to the Merchant Marine Academy,” he said. “That place has been ignored for decades,” Suozzi remarked. “It’s kind of caught in between two places.”
The congressman pointed out the challenges the academy faces, making the case that it plays a vital role in training the next generation of U.S. mariners, but its future is at risk without greater federal support.
Suozzi emphasized that the maritime industry provides some of the best jobs in America, contributing significantly to both the nation’s economy and its national security.
“The best job in America is working in the maritime industry after you graduate from the Merchant Marine Academy,” Suozzi declared, citing the well-paying, stable jobs the industry offers, with long-term benefits that provide financial security.
However, Suozzi also highlighted a broader economic issue affecting working Americans: stagnant wages.
“The problem in our country is that working men and women are not making enough money,” he said, pointing out that unionized workers tend to have higher wages and better benefits, such as health insurance and pensions, compared to those outside of unions.
“The minimum wage in 22 states is $7.25 an hour. On $20-, $30-, or $40,000 a year, you’re not going to buy a house, educate your kids, pay for health insurance, or retire, without being scared.”
As a staunch advocate for the maritime industry throughout his political career, Suozzi reaffirmed his commitment to policies that protect and strengthen the sector. He voiced strong support for the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program (MSP), and cargo preference laws, all of which are critical to maintaining a strong U.S.-flagged fleet.
“Your industry requires subsidies from the federal government,” he stated. “Because it’s just not going to happen in the marketplace on its own.”
Suozzi also noted that while many industries – such as defense, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and energy – receive federal subsidies, workers’ wages have remained stagnant for decades. “We’ve made a ton of money since the end of the ’70s but workers’ wages have not gone up,” Suozzi said, highlighting the disconnect between corporate profits and workers’ compensation.
The congressman reaffirmed his steadfast support for the maritime industry, pledging to continue advocating for policies that benefit both the sector and its workers.
Suozzi’s remarks underscored the critical need for a renewed focus on the maritime industry and a strong labor movement. As the industry continues to face significant challenges, Suozzi’s call for increased federal investment and support for working men and women in maritime serves as a reminder of the importance of strong labor protections and policies that ensure all Americans have the opportunity to thrive.
The New York Congressman concluded his speech with a simple affirmation: “I support the maritime industry 100 percent and vote for the things you care about.”