Our lawyer called USCIS earlier this month and he is expecting a response soon. We will also wait for this response to see where the case is stuck. We will also try to call USCIS ourselves to find out more about the case status.
Our lawyer suggests that, if the case is stuck with FBI name check, Writ of Mandamus is the only solution.
He has not mentioned writing to USCIS HQ in DC or to local Congressman. We will discuss your recommendations with him.
As always, you are the nicest and greatest.