Assaults on TSA workers have spiked 500% since the shutdown began — and airports are pleading with passengers to be patient

Acting TSA Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill said assaults on TSA officers have risen sharply.

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• TSA agents have experienced a 500% increase in assaults since the shutdown began.
• The agency's boss also told Congress the shutdown has led to the highest wait times in TSA history.
• Houston Airport's director of aviation told travelers, "Make sure you pack your patience" and "be kind."

Transportation Security Administration officers have...