I completely understand that, but I also hope you understand how it looks from the HN user perspective. There's a sentiment that
feels legitimate, but 1) it's not possible for users to prove or disprove because the data is impossible to obtain, 2) the mods tell us it's unfounded because
data, but the data can't be shared, and 3) the mods also tell us if we think the concern is legitimate, prove it, except that because of (1) it's not possible to prove without basically doxxing other users.
I think you addressed it well in the link you provided, especially with the SSM argument, but I have two soft suggestions for consideration:
1) I would personally like to see a HN rule implemented that requires you to post a reply to a comment before you can downvote or flag it. It's probably naive of me to think this would help stop brigading, but it seems like a logical extension of the current downvote setup.
2) I'd like to see equal treatment in terms of flagging both pro and anti- country/political platform comments. If politically charged posts are consistently turning into flame wars in the comments, which seems to be the case, the only way to address the issue without pissing off one set of people or another is to pretty much ban such comments in both directions. I know, easier said than done.
In any case, I think you're doing a great job and I appreciate how tough it is to moderate HN with the level of egos and strong opinions (mine included) on here. Thanks for keeping HN civil.