We saw Palin and McCain in Virginia Beach in ‘08 - great time - but it was at the convention center and so screening appeared to be easier - but I do remember being concerned about being turned away because there were so many people!!
GHW Bush made an outside speech in Dover, DE during his term. It was on the same circle where my office was located, so I had pretty front row seats! But the nose of the bomb dog poking into the mail slot sure did cause me to jump!