More than two dozen Kentucky lawmakers, along with Gov. Andy Beshear, want to see another delay — citing a rush to obtain the new licenses, long lines, and limited appointments.
Leading that push is state Sen. Jimmy Higdon, who said Kentucky isn't alone, with at least 17 states under 50 percent compliance. He warns moving forward with the fast approaching deadline could result in major headaches.
"If we flip the switch now, millions of Americans could be denied access to air travel in federal buildings. We need more time. And that's a reasonable request," he said.
But so far the plea hasn't moved the key administration figure who would need to be convinced, Homeland Security secretary Kristi Noem. She told Fox News the new ID law — a post-9/11 federal mandate that dates back to 2005 — will bolster the administration's focus on immigration.
"This REAL ID is going to just empower the states to to make sure we're checking people's residences. Their current legal status will be verified. We're gonna make sure that people who are getting Social Security numbers in this country aren't voting in states. The states have the power and the information to ensure election integrity," Noem said.
Meanwhile, Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie has been another voice in opposition to the IDs, though his reason isn't wait times or a last-minute rush. He's calling them, "Orwellian" and a way to control Americans.