It didn't seem like an overreaction from the data scientist. The subtext of the comment was that the scientist is considered an enemy of the trans political block. This is a serious problem that you will get burned by if you don't recruit allies to help you with it.

Like, the statement wasn't an opening for dialogue about or investigation into the best way to fulfill the work project. It went straight into making a power play. You can't discuss your way out of someone who's trying to control and gain power over you.