Conservatives Criticize Secret Service’s DEI Efforts After Trump Rally Shooting

U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle faced intense scrutiny from Congress following a recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Lawmakers, particularly from the Republican side, have criticized the agency’s diversity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, suggesting they may have contributed to security lapses.

Rep. Tim Burchett labeled Cheatle’s leadership as a “DEI horror story,” while Rep. Glenn Grothman questioned whether hiring practices were unfairly sidelining men. Rep. Michael Cloud also expressed concerns about the agency’s DEI strategies. This criticism comes in the wake of the July 13 attack, which involved female agents in the security detail.

Conservative commentators, including Matt Walsh and Meghan McCain, have questioned the competency of female Secret Service agents, fueling a broader backlash against DEI efforts across various sectors.

In response, Cheatle defended the agency’s commitment to diversity, arguing that the security breach was a result of planning and communication issues, not DEI policies. The Secret Service remains committed to programs like the 30×30 Initiative, which seeks to increase female representation in law enforcement.

Supporters of DEI, such as Ayanna Pressley and Catrina Bonus, have condemned the sexist and uninformed nature of the criticisms. Maureen McGough, co-founder of the 30×30 Initiative, praised the contributions of women in law enforcement and urged continued support for gender equity in the field.

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