Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley has requested Secret Service protection due to an escalation in threats, as she continues to be the sole Republican presidential primary challenger to former President Donald Trump. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal on Monday, Haley revealed that her team had submitted a federal request for Secret Service assistance, citing multiple security issues. The Secret Service can extend protection to major presidential and vice-presidential candidates and their spouses, with eligibility typically determined closer to the general presidential election. Haley’s request follows swatting hoaxes and security incidents during her recent campaign events.
Last week, Haley’s security team intervened when a woman attempted to rush the stage, and pro-Palestinian protestors disrupted some of her campaign events. The former governor also mentioned that her team faced various security challenges but emphasized that it wouldn’t deter her from her responsibilities. Forbes reached out to Haley’s campaign for further details on the Secret Service request.
It’s noteworthy that major presidential candidates typically receive Secret Service protection closer to their party’s nomination, with exceptions occasionally granted by Homeland Security secretaries. In 2007, the Secret Service began protecting former President Barack Obama almost nine months before the general election. Meanwhile, Donald Trump already enjoys Secret Service protection as a former president.
The surge in threats against political leaders has prompted increased security measures. The U.S. Capitol Police reported investigating over 8,000 threats against lawmakers in 2023, marking a 7% rise from the previous year. With the upcoming election year, Capitol Police anticipate a busy 2024, given the heightened political environment. Haley’s previous role as the ambassador to the United Nations and her involvement with Iran in that capacity may factor into the decision on providing her with protection, according to the Wall Street Journal.