I agree that random blocking sours the reputation.
The only thought I can conjure is perhaps a mod got pissed about a post and banned everyone from a thread, including commentators defending our even just neutrally discussing AI.
I think more detail, perhaps direct comment from the mod(s) involved, is warranted.
As to "vote manipulation", brigading or mass vote blasts are against the rules but harder to pass muster on a bit.
Again, the mod should have a chance to respond for sure.
The Void demands treats
Cute little dude