I guess @socky's point is steemit has never newly approved since a month ago, which is quite unusual (maybe for the first time this year? not sure though). Anyway, it's not like steemit approves everyday, they only approve every 2-3 weeks, which is clearly shown as big spikes. That's why some people got their account within a day if they're lucky to apply near the next approval day. I guess currently steemit doesn't wanna (or cannot) spend money for verification temporarily.
Hope steemit can get back to normal soon. Happy Holidays!