As you pointed out, you need to have a valid legal status to obtain a REAL ID. My gripe is that presenting that proof of valid legal status is not enough proof

As you pointed out, you need to have a valid legal status to obtain a REAL ID. My gripe is that presenting that proof of valid legal status is not enough proof for the enforcement agencies checking for valid legal status. A digital version of your passport is not going to make those agencies less difficult to work with in public places.