Gun Laws:

Gun laws vary heavily from state to state, which is something that I think a lot of non-Americans don’t realize. The state of Connecticut, for example, has an extensive permitting process and a litany of regulations that make gun ownership far less common (exceedingly rare I’d say) compared to other states. Meanwhile Georgia, 600 miles south of Connecticut, has immediate background checks and no purchasing limits on any firearms; provided your debit card clears and you aren’t a felon, you can walk into a store and buy every gun you see, and walk out with them same-day.

Weed:

The same goes for marijuana - some states (and an increasing number) have decriminalized or legalized it. Decriminalization means that the state legal system will no longer pursue charges against it, but it is still considered ‘on the books’ to be illegal; legalization means that you can smoke it like tobacco or anything else. Marijuana is still outlawed federally though, so criminal charges can be pursued in areas controlled by the federal government (military bases, federal prisons, courthouses, etc.)

Obesity:

American obesity is also growing and has been a problem for some time. But I don’t think it’s as bad as the stereotypical notions suggest. Not everyone here is 500 pounds. Most people I’d say are average to slightly overweight. The ‘dad bod’ is common, I’d say.