Some GOP members revolting against REAL ID

There are times when people object to something simply to hear their own voice, and that is my take on all these senseless objections to REAL ID finally being required.  

The oddest thing about all of this to me is that the same people objecting to REAL ID are the same people who want Voter ID laws in place, so it makes no sense.  

The REAL ID Act 

The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 under the George W. Bush administration.  

The primary driving force behind the ID was to enhance security for accessing federal government facilities, nuclear power plants, and boarding airline flights. 

This was clearly in response to the terror attacks against our nation, but now the new narrative of election security has been added. 

REAL ID was initially supposed to take effect in 2008, but legal challenges by states have delayed it for two decades. 

Delayed Again 

The previous deadline for REAL ID to take effect had been 2023, but it once again encountered roadblocks.  

COVID had turned the process on its ear, and local DMVs were facing massive backlogs due to the pandemic.  

At the time, Secretary Mayorkas stated, "This extension will give states needed time to ensure their residents can obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card.” 

The requirements for a REAL ID include showing proof of one's full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of residence, and lawful status. 

GOP Revolts Against REAL ID 

Rep. Massie (R-KY) is among those pushing back, stating, "If you think REAL ID is about election integrity, you’re going to be sorely disappointed. Someone has lied to you, or you’re engaged in wishful thinking. Please don’t shoot the messenger.” 

He then added, "As long as the pilot’s door is locked and no one has weapons, why do you care that someone who flies has government permission? REAL ID provides no benefit, yet presents a serious risk to freedom. If a person can’t be trusted to fly without weapons, why are they roaming free?" 

Former vice-presidential candidate and Alaska governor Sarah Palin also went off, stating, "Other administrations delayed this newfangled, burdensome REAL ID requirement. Are you curious why its implementation is imperative now?? And who came up with this?" 

Both of their arguments are idiotic to me, especially the second party by Massie. If you don’t think the government has all this information on you already, you are sadly mistaken. When I moved from New Jersey to Arkansas a decade ago, I got a REAL ID for the first time, and it was extremely easy, and I have been able to renew ever since, including when I moved to Texas about four years ago. It was not inconvenient, and it was not a hassle. Pushing back against this, to me, is utterly ridiculous and just a reason for people to hear their own voice.