“Pressed on details, Trump asked one of his private security officers to describe the discussions the Secret Service has had with his campaign. The talks were described as preliminary, and the Trump camp says the Secret Service had not provided a definitive answer on when — or if — the billionaire businessman will receive government protection.”
Sounds like through conversations his campaign has made a request for protection and waiting on an answer....but just not a “formal” request. Guess a request “in writing” is required, even though death threats were received!
From the Secret Service website: "Protection is authorized by the DHS Secretary after consultation with the Congressional Advisory Committee. The Congressional Advisory Committee includes: Speaker of the House, House Minority Leader, Senate Majority Leader, Senate Minority Leader, and one additional member selected by the others."
Trump doesn't automatically get Secret Service protection. He has to request it from DHS and it has to be approved by congressional leaders. That's the same for all other candidates. Give Trump's standing in the polls then he almost certainly qualifies. So he should quit complaining and put in the request for it.