Can I apply for political asylum and how long will it take before I can get a work permit so I can get an SS number and my CDL and start working?

It depends on whether or not you qualify for asylum. Interviews are taking about 2 years, and you can qualify for employment authorization after about 180 days. However, if you file a frivolous asylum application, you could be permanently barred from obtaining any immigration's benefits. I strongly suggest that you contact an experienced immigration attorney for a face-to-face consultation and give him/her all of the facts surrounding your situation.