Obama: Sorry, Feds--and Thanks!

President Obama issued a highly unusual memo to the federal workforce Monday (first obtained by the Washington Post's Ed O'Keefe and Lisa Rein). In it, he thanked employees for their "forbearance" during recent budget negotiations, and issued an apology of sorts for the "uncertainty and concern" caused by the budget brinksmanship that led the country to a near-shutdown of government.

Here's the full text of the president's message:

To all federal employees:

Late Friday evening we reached an agreement on the budget that will keep the government open. I know the past few weeks have been a time of uncertainty and concern for you and your families, but your patience and professionalism throughout this entire period have affirmed my confidence in you, and everyone who works in our government.

You do your jobs without complaint or much recognition. But it is men and women like you who help make America all it is, by responding to the needs of our people and keeping our country safe and secure. And so, I want to thank you not only for your forbearance in recent weeks, but for the service you render each and every day to the United States of America.