One Thousand Trump Taj Mahal Casino Workers Strike Over Wages

Close to a thousand workers at Trump Taj Mahal Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey, went on strike Friday (July 1) after negotiations broke down with union negotiators.

"Negotiations with the Taj Mahal broke down, and the negotiating committee decided to walk out of the building at 6 a.m. this morning," said Union spokesperson, Ben Begleiter. "A thousand hospitality workers, housekeepers, bartenders, cocktail servers, and other service workers will be walking off the job."

The union claims that workers are paid an average of $11.74 an hour, forcing many of its workers to rely on public assistance, such as government-subsidized health insurance and food stamps.

"We're disappointed that the Taj Mahal did not recognize the serious contributions these workers to the industry, to the company, and to the town the way that the other four casinos."

The Trump Taj Mahal was purchased out of bankruptcy in recent years, by billionaire investor Carl Icahn.

The Atlantic City casino industry has been struggling with four casinos having closed in the last few years.

Strikes were averted at four other Atlantic City casinos after tentative labor agreements were reached Thursday.