Optics

The Gazette received a call last week from a local Federal agency. It was to inform us that its small bill could not be paid until the government shutdown ended. The office was closed, the heat turned down and few had access to the building. The answering machine warned callers that messages left would not be answered until the situation changed.

How many thousands or millions of times this type of message was relayed across America is unknown.

Also unknown is the hardship and fear the shutdown has caused workers and families. The toll is mounting and may be greatest among breadwinners unable...