The American government workers I meet tend be software developers, or developers who've moved into management. They work at least as hard as private sector workers, usually for less pay, and they really believe in their work (science/biology).
The American meme of the dysfunctional DMV seems almost self-reinforcing. The equivalent offices I use in Denmark or the UK are efficient, they have targets to meet and a good working culture.
Every DMV I've ever been in was fast, helpful, and reliable. I don't understand DMV jokes. This experiences include outrageously underfunded rural towns and the biggest city in our state.
The American meme of the dysfunctional DMV seems almost self-reinforcing. The equivalent offices I use in Denmark or the UK are efficient, they have targets to meet and a good working culture.