If indeed someone in the Secret Service gave these instructions, it seems to be an incredibly reckless decision. Security for Obama has been a high priority item for the Secret Service since the time Obama became a candidate. Every presidential candidate faces some degree of risk however threats to Obama are reportedly much higher than any other candidate. However not since Jessie Jackson’s presidential campaign has any candidate received the volume of threats as Obama. In fact Obama has acknowledged that he has received death threats.With this as a backdrop, it does appear to be a significant risk to have allowed a large unscreened crowd into this event despite the fact that the crowd appeared “friendly.” Arthur Bremer, who shot George Wallace, was described as displaying a positive demeanor by bystanders immediately before he shot Wallace.

This is one story worth watching closely for a statement by the Secret Service.