Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy has faced backlash after comparing Democratic Representative Ayanna Pressley to a grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. Ramaswamy made the remarks during a campaign appearance in Iowa, where he responded to a voter's question about whether he has experienced racism in recent years. Pressley, who is a member of the "Squad" of progressive lawmakers, responded to Ramaswamy's comments, calling them "shameful" and "dangerous." She emphasized her commitment to addressing racial disparities and working towards racial justice. Ramaswamy has upheld his position, stating that he stands by his remarks and wants to provoke an open and honest discussion about the issues. This controversy comes amid a national conversation about race, highlighted by events such as civil rights leaders gathering in Washington to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington, and a recent shooting in Florida where a White man targeted Black individuals. Ramaswamy's comments and Pressley's response represent the contrasting views on how race intersects with American politics.