WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Secret Service says Herman Cain is becoming the first Republican presidential contender to receive its protection.
The Georgia businessman requested the detail. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and congressional leaders agreed Thursday to provide the elite protection to Cain’s campaign.
Cain has risen in the polls despite being dogged by allegations of past sexual harassment.
He is the first Republican candidate to receive Secret Service protection.
Then-candidate President Barack Obama received an early Secret Service detail, in May of 2007.