When do politicians rate a TFR?

Jay Honeck wrote:

Hi Jay,

In an amazing (disgusting, IMHO) display of political hackery (Yep,
that's a word, now) the State of Iowa is being flooded with every
potential presidential candidate, despite the fact that the election
is not until November -- of 2008!

Iowa City in particular has been targeted by Hillary and Obama, to the
point where I wouldn't be surprised if they applied for residency. It
seems like they have been here every other week -- and now the
Republican candidates are following suit.

Having been unpleasantly surprised by a TFR back when John Edwards was
running as a VP candidate (I was on the ground, thankfully, but
couldn't get to my plane, thanks to the SS), we now live in fear of
pop-up TFRs here on a daily basis.

Unfortunately, I have been unable to find any information on precisely
whom is eligible for a TFR. Is this a rule that's written down
anywhere?
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"


Don't know if this will answer your question specifically, but I was in
the Air Force until Jan 1, 1995. Sometime during my career (I was a
"comm puke"), and my memory may be a bit faulty on this item, I remember
receiving some kind of briefing stating that until the completion of the
conventions, the USSS provides some kind of "low level" security for
declared Presidential candidates. Once the conventions are over, and
the "top four" have been selected, then each candidate receives a
"Vice-Presidential Sized" security detail. Given our "Post 9/11"
situation my guess is that when Edwards arrived in your backyard he also
brought a "VP TFR" with him. In addition it is my understanding that if
a security threat has been made against the US House Speaker, and/or the
President Pro-Tem of the US Senate, a "VP TFR" could apply to them as well.

I don't blame you for your TFR concerns. Even though I do not fly
myself, I know when Bush arrives here in Seattle some of the local
pilots I know cringe. IMO a 30NM TFR is more than excessive. However,
it looks like we are all stuck with it for the time being. Regarding
the Tacoma/Seattle area, CJ, and some of the other folks in this group
can provide a better local perspective than I can. But depending on the
time of year (WX conditions mainly), and given our terrain, flying in
this area can be a real big pain if "The Prez" arrives for a visit.
During this "campaign season" I hope that "Bush and Company" stay away
from IOW. Just keep your eye on the TFR situation and hopefully you
won't get screwed over during the campaigns.

Rick
KPLU