I can't remember when demonstrations were ever allowed close to a site where a president was appearing. (A few folks holding signs approving of the president, for decorating news photos -- yes, of course!).
And FBI surveillance of protest groups? Heavens to Betsy -- in the 60s, that was taken to be a matter of course. You were lucky if all they did was take your picture.
I think what we are seeing is more the US government reverting to type than a new Bush administration policy, but the above are only my impressions from my own experience, and may not reflect the total reality.
Jon Johanning // jjohanning at igc.org __________________________________ Belinda: Ay, but you know we must return good for evil. Lady Brute: That may be a mistake in the translation.
-- Sir John Vanbrugh: The Provok’d Wife (1697), I.i.