Plans to officially launch Hillary Clinton’s campaign for president clearly are aimed at shielding her from verbal missteps and embarrassing questions, as well as limiting the damage from such encounters.

Clinton aides told an Associated Press reporter she will focus on “intimate events” rather than speeches to large crowds. That way, fewer people will hear comments such as her claim she and former President Bill Clinton were “dead broke” after they left the White House.

In addition, those attending “intimate events” can be screened carefully to ensure no one asks questions about issues such as Clinton’s email secrecy while secretary of state.

Democrat Party leaders have all but named Clinton their 2016 nominee for president, so their eagerness to keep her from self-destructing over the issues is understandable.

But Clinton cannot be protected forever. Democrat leaders should remind her of that and suggest that for the good of the party – as well as the nation – she come out of her protective shell and begin a real campaign for president.