The editorial stated: The turmoil and uncertainty created by vast numbers of Federal workers not going to work or not being paid is poisoning the atmosphere for progress on the budget. Too much hardship has already been inflicted. not only on the 760.000 unpaid workers. but on millions of Americans who cannot get visas. loans. or any number of other Federal services. Congress and the President should reopen the government now. I absolutely agree with that sentiment. There is a colleague in the House. in the Republican leadership in the House. who said in midNovember. "You have a group in our conference who could not care less if the Government shuts down.