The Department of Safety and Homeland Security stated in a press release, "We should emphasize that the nominees did not make this request."

Established historical protocol allows the assignment of State Troopers to both gubernatorial nominees prior to the general election for public safety reasons. The Commissioner may adjust the timing as threat environments are evaluated.

The Protective Services Division of the Tennessee Highway Patrol is charged with the safety of our Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary branches of state government. Specially trained State Troopers mitigate threats weekly working with our partner agencies. A good week is one in which no threats are received.

The Department recommended protection in a briefing with both gubernatorial nominees and their top staff members last week.

According to the release WGNS received, "Any further discussion of protective details would be inappropriate. We understand the questions, but we're not at liberty to discuss security threats and details."

The press release closed with the statement, "Suffice it to say, though, that Commissioner David W. Purkey has acted within his responsibility and authority to offer this protection to ensure the safety of both gubernatorial nominees."