There are no excuses that can be offered, but maybe these events demonstrate the importance of why members of the Sangha should not be involved in politics, even in commenting about them as I have, because it is just too easy to get duped and be played as if one is a pawn.
Has all of this changed my position on politics within the Sangha? No, it hasn't. Because of this I shall be refraining from any more commentaries, editorials, and other writings related to such matters, and instead will begin reflecting on whether or not it's time to move on, because it was never my intention to create dukkha, long enough get ensnared it.
May all sentient beings find release from suffering.