Sorry to double post (but your article is very content-rich!) but in reply to :
"Nonetheless, Steemit’s reputation in the broader crypto community has been on shaky ground. And cases like this don’t strengthen Steemit’s position."
Both are possibly true statements, but speaking as someone who is not part of the broader crypto-community, that view may not ultimately matter, because so much of Steemit's early success to date is because it appeals to non-crypto users like me (i.e. Steemit is attracting the so-called "mainstream") and looks like it will continue to do so. The opinions of the crypto-community just might have to adjust in time, if Steemit continues to succeed (despite currently falling prices I mean).
But my thanks still for talking openly about a factor you believe is hurting its chances at success!