This is very disappointing, but I can only guess what vicious behind the scenes pressure must have been put on Tom. Maybe threats to his family. I wouldn't put it past the evildoers.
Take heart, Tom. You're the one beacon out there for a lot of us. Don't back down. This is one battle, not the whole war. You were on the right track before. Come out swinging even harder next time!
More likely reasoned discussions with good people, not "evildoers".