Weekly Update --- REAL ID - Phony Security, Real Authoritarianism

Concerns Over REAL ID Implementation

The enforcement of the REAL ID law, announced by the Department of Homeland Security, raises significant concerns regarding personal privacy and government overreach. This law, which establishes federal standards for driver's licenses, requires individuals to provide sensitive information such as social security numbers and biometric data, which can potentially lead to the creation of a comprehensive database of citizens. The fear is that such a database could be misused by future administrations, similar to past abuses seen under figures like J. Edgar Hoover, who exploited personal information for political targeting. Critics argue that REAL ID not only infringes on personal liberties but also fails to enhance security, as evidenced by the fact that 9/11 hijackers used passports from their own countries.