Which presidential candidate gets Secret Service comes down to these factors

Then-Sen. Barack Obama announced his intention to run for the Democratic nomination for president in February 2007 on the grounds of the Old State Capitol in Springfield, Illinois where Abraham Lincoln delivered his "house divided" speech in 1858.

In addition to the rallies, media appearances and normal campaign events, Obama experienced what every presidential candidate should expect: threats. For Sen. Obama, the historic nature of his campaign had an increased effect on those threats, so much so that in early April of 2007, Sen. Dirk Durbin undertook the cause to ensure his fellow junior senator received protection.

By May 2007, Sen. Obama was approved for Secret Service protection by the secretary of Homeland Security, marking the first time in history a presidential candidate received Secret Service protection almost two years prior to the presidential election.

At the same time, his presumptive opponent, Sen. John McCain declined Secret Service protection until almost a year later.

It raised important points in the question of who gets Secret Service protection, which is relevant again as the next presidential election cycle ramps up.

-snip-

A candidate has to hit several markers to show they are a "major presidential candidate." According to the Congressional Research Service, that includes:

They are a publicly declared candidates.

They are actively campaigning nationally and are contesting at least 10 state primaries.

Are pursuing the nomination of a qualified party, one whose presidential candidate received at least 10% of the popular vote in the prior election.

Are qualified for public matching funds of at least $100,000, and have raised at least $10 million in additional contributions.

-more-

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/which-presidential-candidate-gets-secret-service-comes-down-to-these-factors/ar-BBW7Op8?li=BBnb7Kz