NEW: Ayana Pressley accuses Republicans of racism and sexism for worries over DEI in Secret Service

Rep. Ayana Pressley (D-MA) accused Republicans of racism and sexism after some have raised concerns over stated DEI goals of the US Secret Service to have 30 percent female employees in light of the attempted assassination of Donald Trump.  

Pressley said in the hearing, "Republicans have exploited this moment to continue to attack progress towards racial justice and gender equity in America. Disappointing, but not surprising." 

"I hesitate to repeat their racist and sexist tropes, but in summary, Republicans have wrongfully and shamefully stated that hiring women and people of color hindered the response to the shooting. Now this is part and parcel of Republican strategy to constantly attack necessary diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts to undermine the contributions that women, people of color, the disability community, and others make to this country each and every day, and it is disgraceful." 

At the Trump assassination attempt, three women had rushed the stage when he had been shot in the ear. Afterwards, many pointed out that the women that were on the detail could not cover the full body of the six-foot-three GOP nominee. This brought scrutiny to the agency, which has committed to hire 30 percent women by the years 2030.  

When pressed on if she has wanted “a third” of USSS staff be female, Cheatle responded, "I've never stated that I want one-third of the Secret Service to be women.” A third would be 33 percent, while the agency has committed to a 30 percent target.