Wow! The initial rant is exactly what I think of Minnesota! I came to MN from the northeast a few years ago and I am appalled at the lack of driving skills in the midwest (stopping for GREEN lights, slamming brakes on whenever anything even closely resembling a curve comes up, driving 10 mph below the speed limit in all lanes, etc.).
When I went to get my MN drivers license they wanted an original birth certificate (tried to explain that Boston General Hospital no longer exists) and two other forms of government ID. My current NH operator license, State Police id and military id did not qualify.
When I returned with more ID, I had to take the computer test then wait in line behind a non-english speaking asian (vc). When it was my turn, I asked the MV clerk what the "foreigner" had to produce for ID. He told me that since vietnam, like many other third world countries, does not have a good record keeping system, they just needed someone to "vouch" for them. Usually it's a family member or friend. As for taking the computerized drivers exam, they can also have someone help them since they are typically non-computer savvy and need a translator.
Great, I was born and raised in the US, served in the Marines, retired from law enforcement and I have to jump through hoops, but someone who doesn't speak, read or understand english and has no paperwork just needs a friend to vouch for them....No wonder MN is the epicenter for so many illegals and welfare sucking crud!
Oh yeah, heading to Texas for a month in mid-February. Going to do some hog hunting with the pistol, rifle and bow, plus look for some housing....anyplace is better than the USSR of Minnesota.