Even straight-forward passport renewals are a problem right now.

The state department web site has contradictory information about how long the process is currently taking, with the stated times ranging from one to four weeks. One page has a statement that they are adding additional staff to handle the backlog.

I'm current in the process of renewing my passport. I has been over two weeks without any indication that they have received and are processing the application -- significantly longer than the "allow 7-10 days" delay before online status tracking should work. And this after taking the minimum risk approach: filling out the online application (which should avoid data entry delays and errors), and having the postage applied and the envelope inspected at the post office counter.