Story perspectives

REAL ID Unreliable for Citizenship, DHS Admits in Court

1/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Department of Homeland Security says the REAL ID is unreliable for confirming U.S. citizenship, despite proof requirements.
The finding appears in a court filing about Leo Garcia Venegas, a U.S. citizen detained during immigration raids.
The REAL ID was created after the September 11 attacks as a security measure, but faced compliance issues.
Justice Brett Kavanaugh's opinion downplayed concerns about harassment of legal residents amid security-versus-liberties tensions.

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Story summary

The Department of Homeland Security says the REAL ID is unreliable for confirming U.S. citizenship, despite proof requirements.
The finding appears in a court filing about Leo Garcia Venegas, a U.S. citizen detained during immigration raids.
The REAL ID was created after the September 11 attacks as a security measure, but faced compliance issues.
Justice Brett Kavanaugh's opinion downplayed concerns about harassment of legal residents amid security-versus-liberties tensions.